[Herpetology • 2026] Cyrtodactylus dimaensis • A New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) hidden in the highlands of Dima Hasao District, Assam, India

Cyrtodactylus dimaensis

 Thaosen, Vabeiryureilai, Hlychho & Lalremsanga, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11609/jott.10658.18.10.29818-29835

Abstract

We describe a new species of karst-associated Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Gekkonidae) of the khasiensis species group within the Indo-Burma clade from Umrangso, Dima Hasao District, Assam, northeast India, based on integrative analysis with morphological and molecular data. The new species Cyrtodactylus dimaensis sp. nov. is revealed as a sister taxon to the recently described C. vanarakshaka, both belonging to the same district, Dima Hasao, Assam, with an uncorrected p-distance of 5%, and to C. namtiram of Manipur with 10% divergence. Intraspecific uncorrected p-distance for the new species was found to be between 0.0–1.3 %, and the interspecific divergence from the closely related congeners was between 5–38 %. The new species can be identified from its congeners by the presence of 7 or 8 precloacal pores in subadult males. This is the eight Cyrtodactylus species described from Assam, highlighting the region’s richness in herpetofaunal diversity and the need for further herpetological expeditions into this highly under-studied region.

Keywords: Age-class, Bent-toed Gecko, Brahmaputra, Indo-Burma, microhabitat, ND2 gene, northeastern India, phylogeny, subadult, taxonomy, Umrangso

 Live specimen of Cyrtodactylus dimaensis sp. nov. (MZMU4012), a paratype.

photo by Jithu Das

Cyrtodactylus dimaensis sp. nov.

Krijoboti Thaosen, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai, Mara Duasa Hlychho and Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga. 2026. Unveiling A New Species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) hidden in the highlands of Dima Hasao District, Assam, India. Journal of Threatened Taxa. 18(10); 29818-29835. DOI: doi.org/10.11609/jott.10658.18.10.29818-29835

[Paleontology • 2026] Hintighernia edingerae • A tapejarid Pterosaur from the Cambridge Greensand (Cretaceous of England), with comments on its Neuroanatomy and the Biogeography of the Group

Hintighernia edingerae

Pêgas, Bandeira, Naish & Holgado, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlag162 

  x.com/TetZoo

Artwork by Matheus Gadelha.

Abstract

A reassessment of azhdarchoid pterosaur material from the Cretaceous Cambridge Greensand Member of the West Melbury Marly Chalk Formation of Great Britain is presented. The partial cranium CAMSM B54406, often referred to Ornithostoma sedgwicki, is here identified as a sinopterine tapejarid. Diagnostic traits, including the shape of the upper temporal fenestra margins and a robust, elongate supraoccipital median ridge, lead us to diagnose a new taxon, which we name Hintighernia edingerae gen. et sp. nov. Micro-CT scanning of CAMSM B54406 reveals a neuroanatomy closely resembling that of Tapejara wellnhoferi. Some additional remains from the Cambridge Greensand Member can also be referred to Tapejaridae, and we tentatively refer an isolated fragment of rostrum to cf. Hintighernia. In turn, Ornithostoma sedgwicki is regarded as a chaoyangopterid azhdarchoid, and its hypodigm is restricted to four jaw fragments. The existence of at least a third azhdarchoid species (a non-azhdarchid concilazhian) in the Cambridge Greensand is suggested based on both jaw and cervical remains. We also provide new insights regarding the biogeography of tapejarid pterosaurs. Europe appears to have been an early hotspot of phylogenetic diversity for this group and a potential point of origin for the sinopterines of Eastern Laurasia and tapejarines of South America.

Azhdarchoidea, systematics, Cambridge Greensand Member, Cretaceous

Pterosauria Burmeister, 1837

Pterodactyloidea Plieninger, 1901

Azhdarchoidea Unwin, 1995

Tapejaridae Kellner, 1989

Sinopterinae Lü et al., 2016

Hintighernia gen. nov.

Hintighernia edingerae gen. et sp. nov.

Etymology: The generic epithet is a combination of hɨnt and tɨɣern, which are the reconstructed Proto-Brittonic words for ‘path’ and ‘lord’, respectively, with the intended meaning of ‘lord of the paths’. This is in reference to the name Tapejara, which shares the same meaning in Ancient Tupi. The intended pronunciation in International Phonetic Alphabet is [hɨn‧tɨ‧ɣern‧i‧a]. The specific epithet honours palaeontologist Johanna Ottilie ‘Tilly’ Edinger (1897–1967), founder of modern palaeoneurology. Edinger was responsible for impor- tant advances in pterosaur palaeoneurology, including the description of a pterodactyloid endocast from the Cambridge Greensand (Edinger 1927), similar to that of CAMSM B54406.

Hintighernia edingerae holotype (CAMSM B54406).
 Left lateral view: A, photograph; and B, reconstructed 3D model. Posterior view: C, photograph; and D, reconstructed 3D model. Posterodorsal view: E, photograph; and F, reconstructed 3D model.

Abbreviations: add.r, adductor ridge; f, frontal; fm, foramen magnum; fpc, frontoparietal crest; or, orbit; p, parietal; pmcv, posterior middle cerebral vein foramen; soc.r, supraoccipital ridge; utf.pm, upper temporal fenestra posterior margin. Scale bar: 20 mm.

Virtually reconstructed braincase endocast of CAMSM B54406.
Views: A, anterior; B, posterior; C, left lateral; D, ventral, E, dorsal; F, right lateral.

Abbreviations: Cer, cerebrum; Cbl, cerebellum; Flo, flocculus; Op, optic lobe; Mat, matrix; Med, medulla; PoC, posterior semicircular canal. Scale bar: 20 mm.

Life restoration of Hintighernia edingerae, with schematic reconstruction of its skull and encephalon.

Artwork by Matheus Gadelha.

 

Rubi V Pêgas, Kamila L N Bandeira, Darren Naish and Borja Holgado. 2026. A tapejarid Pterosaur from the Cambridge Greensand (Cretaceous of England), with comments on its neuroanatomy and the biogeography of the group. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. 208(3); zlag162, DOI: doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlag162 [01 November 2026] 

  x.com/TetZoo/status/2117179164037976309

[Arachnida • 2025] Troglorhopalurus iuiu • Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus,
including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí;
(B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia;
Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú. 

 Carvalho, Silva, de Souza & Ferreira, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 

Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Abstract

The genus Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) is endemic to northeastern Brazil and comprises cave-dwelling species with limited distributions. Based on newly collected specimens, this study provides a description of a new cave-dwelling Troglorhopalurus species and the first detailed description of the male hemispermatophore of the genus. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is diagnosed based on morphometric characters, distinct carapace granulation, and differences in the pedipalps and metasomal carinae and peg sensillae shape. The hemispermatophore of Troglorhopalurus is like other Centruroidinae species, with internal, external, and basal lobes. Additionally, we discuss the distribution and conservation status of Troglorhopalurus species. Troglorhopalurus lacrau distribution range is extended based on additional epigean and hypogean records. This species may be reassessed from data deficient to least concern. Based on the limited localities and declining habitat quality, we propose that T. iuiu n. sp. be considered endangered. This research underscores the importance of further sampling to explore species-specific variations and promote conservation efforts for these ecologically specialized scorpions.

Keywords: Arachnida; Centruroidinae; taxonomy; hemispermatophore; conservation status

Habitus of live specimens of Troglorhopalurus, including T. translucidus (A), T. lacrau (B–E), and T. iuiu n. sp. (F–H).
(A) Adult female from Gruta Rio dos Pombos cave, Andaraí; (B) adult female from Lapa do Bode, Itaeté; (C) adult female from Gruta da Mangabeira cave, Ituaçu; (D) juvenile from Gruta Moreno cave, Nova Redenção; (E) juvenile from Gruta do Calixto, Iramaia; (F) adult female from Gruta do Sepultamento, Iuiú; (G) juvenile from Lapa do Baixão cave, Iuiú; (H) juvenile from Toca Fria cave, Iuiú.

 Photos: L.S. Carvalho (A,B), R.L. Ferreira (C–H).

Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. 

Diagnosis. Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. is most similar to T. lacrau. Both species share a light-brownish coloration in adult specimens, lack remarkably elongated pedipalps and metasoma segments, and have a rhomboid subaculear tubercle, distinguishing them from T. translucidus (Figure 1A). In T. translucidus, adults have a black base coloration, elongated pedipalps and metasomal segments, and spinoid subaculear tubercle (Figure 1A). Troglorhopalurus iuiu n. sp. differs from T. lacrau by the following characteristics: (1) The carapace of T. iuiu n. sp. is mostly covered by fine granules (e.g., in the area between the anterior median and the anterior lateral carinae) and vestigial carinae (e.g., anterior central submedian, posterior central submedian, and posterior submedian carinae; Figure 2C,D), but coarse granules and well-marked carinae are found in ...

Leonardo Sousa Carvalho, Maria Idalete Lopes Silva, Priscila Emanuela de Souza and Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira. 2026. Taxonomy and Distribution of the Cave-Dwelling Scorpions Troglorhopalurus (Scorpiones, Buthidae), with the Description of a New Cave-Restricted Species. Arthropoda. 3(2), 6. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/arthropoda3020006 [7 April 2025]

[Chilopoda • 2026] Otostigmus troglobius • A New troglomorphic Centipede Species of Genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 (Scolopendromorpha: Scolopendridae: Otostigminae) from Serra da Bodoquena, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

 

Otostigmus (Parotostigmus) troglobius Chagas-Jr.,

 in Chagas-Jr et Fernandes, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/subtbiol.58.198345 

Scale bars: 1 mm (A, B, C, E, F); 0.1 mm (D).

Abstract

A new troglomorphic species of the genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 has been discovered in two hypogenic caves in Serra da Bodoquena National Park, a hotspot for Brazil’s subterranean fauna. This represents the second troglobitic Otostigmus species in the world. The newly described species, Otostigmus (Parotostigmus) troglobius sp. nov., was based on molecular and morphological data. Although the specimens do not occur in the same cave, species delimitation analysis using a mitochondrial marker Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I (COI) grouped the new species into a congruent MOTU. Morphologically, the new species closely resembles O. tidius Chamberlin, 1914 due to the median keels on the tergites and the short, incomplete sutures on the sternites. The new discovery underscores the importance of conserving the caves in Serra da Bodoquena.

Keywords: Barcoding, caves, Chilopoda, Parotostigmus

Otostigmus (Parotostigmus) troglobius sp. nov. (Holotype CZUFMT-MY 02507):
A. Cephalic plate, antennae and first tergites; B. Cephalic plate and tergite 1; C. Forcipular coxosternite; D. Forcipular coxosternite, showing the tooth plate; E. Tergites 11–14, dorsal view; F. Tergites 17–19, dorsal view.

Scale bars: 1 mm (A, B, C, E, F); 0.1 mm (D).

Otostigmus (Parotostigmus) troglobius Chagas-Jr., sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Long antennae, with 17 articles; legs 1–4 with one tibial spur, and legs 1–17 with two tarsal spurs; Tergites 1–3 without sutures, 4–7 with short sutures in anterior margin, and 8–20 with complete paramedian sutures; tergites 7–20 with a longitudinal keel; sternites 3–16 with short sutures on anterior margin, and sternites 6–16 with two shallow rounded depressions; legs 21 very long, slender and cylindrical.

Etymology. Species name is a Latin word meaning “troglobiont”, an animal that lives only in caves, referring to the habitat of the species.

Otostigmus (Parotostigmus) troglobius sp. nov. (Holotype CZUFMT-MY 02507):
A. Cephalic plate, antennae and first tergites; B. Cephalic plate and tergite 1; C. Forcipular coxosternite; D. Forcipular coxosternite, showing the tooth plate; E. Tergites 11–14, dorsal view; F. Tergites 17–19, dorsal view.

Scale bars: 1 mm (A, B, C, E, F); 0.1 mm (D).

Amazonas Chagas-Jr. and Heloisa Barbosa Fernandes. 2026. A New troglomorphic Centipede Species of Genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 (Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae, Otostigminae) from Serra da Bodoquena, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Subterranean Biology.58: 27-42. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/subtbiol.58.198345 [02-09-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Primula panzhouensis (Primulaceae) • Phylogeny and Comparative chloroplast Genomics reveal A rare New short-styled homostylous Species from southwestern China

 

Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu,   

in Ye, Liu, Guo, Deng, Zhou et Wu, 2026. 

盘州报春  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2026.1934280

Abstract

Based on comparative chloroplast genomes (cp genomes) and phylogenetic analyses integrated with morphological evidence, this study investigated the taxonomic status and phylogenetic relationships of an extremely rare short-styled homostylous lineage of Primula from southwestern China, providing new molecular insights into the delimitation of this complex group. Complete cp genomes were sequenced and comparatively analyzed for one putative new taxon, Primula panzhouensis, and 15 representative samples within Sect. Petiolares from southwestern China. The cp genome characteristics, simple sequence repeat (SSR) patterns, codon usage bias, inverted repeat (IR) boundary variations, and nucleotide diversity patterns were systematically evaluated. Maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) analyses were conducted based on complete cp genome sequences, and an integrative taxonomic assessment was performed by combining cp genomic evidence with morphological comparisons. All 16 cp genomes exhibited a typical quadripartite structure, with genome sizes ranging from 151,076 to 153,420 bp. The overall cp genome structure and gene composition were highly conserved, although interspecific variations were detected in IR boundary regions, SSR distributions, and highly variable regions, including trnH-psbA and ycf1. The sequenced cp genome of P. panzhouensis exhibited several distinctive structural features and sequence variation patterns compared with closely related taxa. ML and BI analyses consistently recovered P. panzhouensis as a distinct cp lineage within Sect. Petiolares with strong support. Morphological comparisons further demonstrated that P. panzhouensis possesses the short-styled homostyly trait and can be distinguished from related taxa by differences in floral style structure, corolla morphology, scape length, and leaf characteristics. Integrating cp genomic evidence, phylogenetic relationships, and morphological traits, our results support the recognition of P. panzhouensis as a distinct taxonomic entity, which is herein described as a new species, Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu, sp. nov. This study demonstrates that comparative cp genomics integrated with phylogenetic analyses can effectively assist in resolving lineage relationships and taxonomic boundaries in complex groups of Primula. It also identifies an extremely rare short-styled homostylous species, providing valuable material for further investigating the evolution of floral diversity and its potential evolutionary significance in Primula.

Keywords: chloroplast genomics, molecular phylogeny, morphological taxonomy, Primula panzhouensis, Primula sect. Petiolares, short-styled homostylous species

Primula panzhouensis Z.K.Wu, sp. nov.

 Diagnosis: The new species is morphologically similar to P. esquirolii, P. bergenioides, and P. hookeri, and all four species exhibit morphological characteristics consistent with the diagnostic features of Sect. Petiolares. It differs from P. esquirolii primarily in that the latter produces few or no new leaves during the flowering period, has a relatively long corolla tube, and bears extremely shortened scapes that are usually less than 1 cm in height or nearly absent. In addition, P. esquirolii is homostylous with long-style flowers, whereas the new species possesses a short corolla tube, well-developed scapes, and produces numerous new leaves during anthesis. Compared with the heterostylous P. bergenioides, the new species is readily ...

  Etymology: The specific epithet of the new species is taken from the Chinese Pinyin “Panzhou”, the name of the county in western Guizhou, China, where the type specimen was collected (Figure 15).

 Vernacular name: Chinese mandarin: pán zhōu bào chūn (盘州报春).

 

Qing-qing Ye, Yong-lin Liu, Ying Guo, Qiang Deng, Wei Zhou and Zhi-kun Wu. 2026. Phylogeny and Comparative chloroplast Genomics reveal A rare New short-styled homostylous Species of Primula (Primulaceae) from southwestern China. Front. Plant Sci. 17:1934280. DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2026.1934280  [29 September 2026]

[Fungi • 2021] Mycena cristinae (Agaricales: Mycenaceae) • The Amazonian luminescent from Brazil

 

Mycena cristinae  J.S. Oliveira,  

in Oliveira, Vargas-Isla, Cabral, Cardoso, Andriolli, Rodrigues, Ikeda, Clement et Ishikawa, 2021. 

DOI doi.org/10.47371/mycosci.2021.05.004 

Researchgate.net/publication/354644984

  

Abstract

A new luminescent lignicolous fungal species, Mycena cristinae sp. nov., is proposed from the Central Amazon forest. This is unique and supported by morphological evaluation along with LSU- and ITS-based phylogenetic analyses. The basidiomata have mostly fuscous olivaceous brown pileus, adnate to subdecurrent and distant lamellae, and stipe with slightly bulbous base (basal mycelium absent). It also has inamyloid and/or weakly amyloid basidiospores, ramose cheilocystidia and a pileipellis composed of an aerated tangle of slender, diverticulate hyphae forming a coralloid pellicle overlaying the hypodermium. The luminescence is evident in the basidiomata (especially the stipe) and in the mycelium on the substrate. The LSU phylogenetic trees reveal that M. cristinae is sister to M. coralliformis within the Mycenaceae clade. In the ITS trees, it forms a unique lineage grouping with undetermined Mycena taxa. Morphological data support M. cristinae as a different species compared to previously described taxa.

Keywords: Agaricales, Amazon forest, Mycenaceae, phylogeny, taxonomy

Macroscopic view of Mycena cristinae (J.S. Cardoso & F. Andriolli JS347, holotype -INPA 287129).
A: basidiomata in situ, at night, using camera flash. B: basidiomata in situ, at night, without camera flash. C: basidiomata and mycelium on the substrate in situ, at night, without camera flash. D: pileus surface. E: hymenophore. F: stipe base. G: stipe base accompanied by fragment of the substrate with bryophytes. H: whole set of basidiomata. D-H photographed in lab using camera flash and room light.

Bars: 10 mm. 

Photos: Francisco Farroñay (A-C); Julia S. Cardoso (D-H).

Mycena cristinae J.S. Oliveira, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Pileus 7–22 mm diam, striate-sulcate, grayish brown or fuscous olivaceous brown. Lamellae adnate to subdecurrent, 10–14. Stipe pale olivaceous, with slightly bulbous base without mycelium. Basidiomata and mycelium luminescent, with a green-yellow light. Basidiospores 6.7–8.7 × 4.7–6 µm, inamyloid or weakly amyloid. Cheilocystidia ramose. Pileus trama dextrinoid: 1) the hypodermium, upper layer of inflated, pale brown hyphae; 2) lower layer similar to the lamellar trama. Pileipellis a coralloid pellicle of slender hyphae overlaying the hypodermium. Lignicolous.

 

Jadson J.S. Oliveira, Ruby Vargas-Isla, Tiara S. Cabral, Julia S. Cardoso, Fernando S. Andriolli, Doriane P. Rodrigues, Takehide Ikeda, Charles R. Clement and Noemia K. Ishikawa. 2021. The Amazonian luminescent Mycena cristinae sp. nov. from Brazil. Mycoscience. 62(6); 395-405. DOI doi.org/10.47371/mycosci.2021.05.004

 Researchgate.net/publication/354644984_The_Amazonian_luminescent_Mycena_cristinae_sp_nov_from_Brazil

[Fungi • 2023] Scleroderma erubescens, S. vinaceum, ... (Boletales: Sclerodermataceae) • Four New Species from Southwestern China

 (A, B) Scleroderma erubescens;
(E) S. separatum; (G) S. squamulosum;
(H, I) S. vinaceum 

Z.W. Ge, R. Wu & L.-R. Zhou,

in Wu, Zhou, Qu et Ge, 2023. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3390/d15060775 

  Researchgate.net/publication/371614300

Scale bars = 1 cm.

Abstract

The genus Scleroderma contains gasteroid basidiomycetes, which form globose spores with echinulate to reticulate ornamentation on the surface. Based on the morphological observations in combination with molecular data, four new species, S. erubescens, S. separatum, S. squamulosum, and S. vinaceum, were described from Yunnan, southwestern China. Images of fresh basidiomata and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of basidiospores are provided. Phylogenetic analyses based on ITS sequences show that these four new taxa belong to the Scleroderma section Scleroderma.

Keywords: four new species; Boletales; ectomycorrhizal fungi; Sclerodermataceae; taxonomy

 Basidiomata of Scleroderma species.
 (A, B) Scleroderma erubescens ((A) Z. W. Ge 4356; (B) Z. W. Ge 4828, holotype).
(C–E) Scleroderma separatum ((C) Z. W. Ge 4148, holotype; (D) Z. W. Ge 5394; (E) L. R. Zhou 31).
(F, G) Scleroderma squamulosum ((F) Y. J. Hao 373, holotype; (G) L. P. Tang 821).
(H, I) Scleroderma vinaceum ((H) J. Qin 197; (I) Z. W. Ge 5651).

Scale bars = 1 cm.

Scleroderma erubescens Z.W. Ge, R. Wu & L.-R. Zhou, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Differs from the similar S. verrucosum in having smaller basidiomata that turn reddish purple to blackish red after injury, smaller basidiospores with longer spikes, a thinner peridium, and hyphae with clamp connections.

Etymology: The species epithet refers to the basidiomata turning reddish purple to blackish red when bruised.

Scleroderma separatum Z.W. Ge, R. Wu & L.-R. Zhou, sp. nov. 

 

Diagnosis: Differs from Scleroderma albidum in having warty, peelable squamules on the peridium, smaller basidospores, and clamp connections at the hyphae of the rhizomorphs.

 Etymology: The species epithet refers to the peelable squamules on the peridium.

Scleroderma squamulosum Z.W. Ge, R. Wu & L.-R. Zhou, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Differs from the similar species Scleroderma areolatum in having a well-developed stipe, light-colored basidiomata, and smaller basidospores, with abundant attachments.

 Etymology: “squamulosum” refers to the scattered, tiny, and thin squamules on the stipes.

Scleroderma vinaceum Z.W. Ge, R. Wu & L.-R. Zhou, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Differs from the similar species Scleroderma verrucosum in the peridium, changing color to vinaceous after damage, with a longer stipe and smaller basidiomata.

 Etymology: “vinaceum” refers to the basidiomata turning vinaceous when bruised.

 Rui Wu, Lvrong Zhou, Hua Qu and Zai-Wei Ge. 2023. Updates on Scleroderma: Four New Species of Section Scleroderma from Southwestern China. Diversity. 15(6), 775. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/d15060775  [15 June 2023] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/371614300_Four_New_Species_of_Scleroderma_from_Southwestern_China

[Fungi • 2025] Collybiopsis latispora, C. subpolygramma, ... (Agaricales: Omphalotaceae) • Four New Species from subtropical regions of China

Collybiopsis subpolygramma; 
Collybiopsis fucata; 
Collybiopsis dentata 

J.Q. Yan, L. Ding, & S.N. Wang, 

in Ding, Zhong, Zeng, Wang et Yan, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.118.155560 

Abstract

Four new species of Collybiopsis, namely C. subpolygramma, C. fucata, C. dentata, and C. latispora, were discovered in the subtropical regions of China. These species were identified based on morphological characteristics and molecular analysis. Morphologically, C. subpolygramma is characterized by its pileal surface, white in color with a light brown center; slender, cylindrical cheilocystidia; and absence of pleurocystidia. C. fucata is recognized by the reddish-brown, hygrophanous pileus; adnate to adnexed lamellae; and relatively broad basidiospores. C. dentata is identified by free lamellae, fusiform to utriform pleurocystidia, and relatively broad basidiospores. C. latispora is distinct by relatively broad basidiospores and a minute, snow-white ring or ruff at the stipe base. In the phylogenetic analysis based on combined ITS and LSU sequences, the four new species formed distinct and stable branches (BI-PP = 1; ML-BP = 100%), respectively. Collybiopsis subpolygramma formed a sister lineage with C. polygramma. The new species C. fucata, C. dentata, and C. latispora were found to be nested within the C. ramealis species complex clade. Detailed descriptions, color photos, and a key to related species are presented.

Key words: Basidiomycetes, new taxa, phylogeny, taxonomy

Collybiopsis subpolygramma. A–C. Basidiomata; D–F. Basidiospores; G. Basidia; H–J. Cheilocystidia; K. Pileipellis; L. Caulocystidia. All microscopic structures were observed in 5% KOH, and 1% Congo red was used as the stain.

Scale bars: 30 mm (A–C); 5 µm (D–F); 20 µm (G); 30 µm (H–I); 20 µm (J); 30 µm (K, L).

 Collybiopsis subpolygramma J.Q. Yan, L. Ding, & S.N. Wang, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. Referring to its similarity to C. polygramma, that pileus is sulcate.

Diagnosis. This species is characterized by its pileal surface, white in color with a light brown center; crowded and occasionally forked lamellae; white to black-brown stipe; slender cylindrical cheilocystidia; basidia mainly 2-spored; and absence of pleurocystidia.

Collybiopsis subpolygramma. A–C. Basidiomata
Collybiopsis fucata. A–C. Basidiomata
Collybiopsis dentata. A–C. Basidiomata 

 Collybiopsis fucata J.Q. Yan, L. Ding, & S.N. Wang, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. Refer to the Latin “fucatus,” meaning “painted”—the lamellae edges are fucata.

Diagnosis. This species is characterized by the reddish-brown, hygrophanous pileus; white lamellae that are adnate to adnexed; reddish-brown stipe with a white apex; basidiospores 3.9–5.2 µm broad; fusiform to utriform pleurocystidia; and cheilocystidia 25–65 × 11–31 µm.

 Collybiopsis dentata J.Q. Yan, L. Ding, & S.N. Wang, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. Refer to the Latin “dens,” meaning “tooth”—the lamellae edges are dentate.

Diagnosis. This species is characterized by white lamellae that are free, basidiospores 3.9–4.7 µm broad, fusiform to utriform pleurocystidia, and cheilocystidia measuring up to 30–71 × 17–29 µm.

 Collybiopsis latispora J.Q. Yan, L. Ding, & S.N. Wang, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. Refer to the Latin “latus,” meaning “broad”—the species having wide basidiospores.

Diagnosis. This species is characterized by white lamellae with a minute, snow-white ring or ruff at the stipe base; basidiospores 4.3–5.9 µm broad; subcylindrical, narrow fusiform, narrow utriform pleurocystidia; and cheilocystidia 16–47 × 13–24 µm.

 

 Ling Ding, Ben-Jian Zhong, Hui Zeng, Sheng-Nan Wang, Jun-Qing Yan. 2025. Four New Species of Collybiopsis (Omphalotaceae, Agaricales) from subtropical regions of China. MycoKeys. 118: 289-311. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.118.155560 [11-06-2025]

[Fungi • 2022] Rubroboletus flammeus (Boletales: Boletaceae) • A Novel Species unveiled from subtropical China based on morphological and phylogenetic evidences

 

Rubroboletus flammeus  N.K. Zeng, Xu Zhang & W.Q. Qin, 

in Zhang, Qin, Liang, Tian et Zeng, 2022.

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s00203-022-02998-4 

 Researchgate.net/publication/361205430

Abstract

Rubroboletus flammeus is described as a new species from subtropical China based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. It is morphologically characterized by a red to fiery-red basidioma with a dry pileus, a context in pileus white but that in stipe bright yellow, a stipe densely covered with spots, a blue color change of tissues, and a trichoderm-type pileipellis. Detailed descriptions, color photographs of fresh basidiomata, and line drawings of microscopic features of the new species are presented. A key to the known Chinese taxa of Rubroboletus is provided.

  

Keywords: Molecular phylogeny, Morphology, New taxon, Taxonomy

Basidiomata of Rubroboletus flammeus.
 (a–c, e from FHMU6928, holotype; d, f from FHMU6927).

Photos by W.Q. Qin

Rubroboletus flammeus N.K. Zeng, Xu Zhang & W.Q. Qin, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Characterized by a red to fiery-red basidioma with a dry pileus, a context in pileus white but that in stipe bright yellow, a stipe densely covered with spots, a blue color change of tissues, and a trichoderm-type pileipellis.

Etymology: Latin “flammeus”, meaning the fiery-red pileus of the new species.

Xu Zhang, Wei-Qiang Qin, Zhi-Qun Liang, Run Tian and Nian-Kai Zeng. 2022. Rubroboletus flammeus (Boletaceae, Boletales), A Novel Species unveiled from subtropical China based on morphological and phylogenetic evidences. Archives of Microbiology. 204, 379. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s00203-022-02998-4 [09 June 2022]

 Researchgate.net/publication/361205430_Rubroboletus_flammeus_a_novel_species_unveiled_from_subtropical_China

[Fungi • 2026] Bolbitius fuscopapillatus & B. planoflavus (Agaricales: Bolbitiaceae) • Two New Species and One New Record from northeast China

 

a, b. Bolbitius titubans; f. B. coprophilus;
g, h. Bolbitius fuscopapillatus; k, l. B. planoflavus 

T. Bau & H. Cheng, 

in Cheng et Bau, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.140.203173 

Scale bars: 1 cm.

Abstract

A taxonomic study of the genus Bolbitius from northeast China was conducted, based on morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Phylogenetic relationships were reconstructed, based on a combined multi-locus dataset comprising the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear large subunit (nrLSU) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) sequences. As a result, two new species are described and illustrated: Bolbitius planoflavus, characterised by its distinctly applanate, pale yellow pileus when mature and the presence of occasional 2-spored basidia; and Bolbitius fuscopapillatus, distinguished by its violet-brown papillate umbo and purplish-white margin bearing faint veil remnants. Additionally, Bolbitius bisporus is reported as a new record for China. Detailed morphological descriptions, colour photographs and comparisons with closely-related taxa are provided.

Key words: Bolbitius, multi-gene fragments, morphology, new taxa, phylogeny

Basidiomata of Bolbitius species.
 a, b. Bolbitius titubans (FJAU68133, FJAU68132); c, d. B. variicolor (FJAU68135, FJAU68134); e, f. B. coprophilus (FJAU68139, FJAU68138);
g, h. B. fuscopapillatus (FJAU68142 T, FJAU68143); i, j. B. bisporus (FJAU68137); k, l. B. planoflavus (FJAU68141, FJAU68140 T); T = holotype. White arrows in (g) indicate veil remnants, with an enlarged view shown in the upper right corner.

 Scale bars: 1 cm.

Bolbitius planoflavus T. Bau & H. Cheng, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. “planoflavus” refers to the species’ pileus being both plane and pale yellow when mature.

Bolbitius fuscopapillatus T. Bau & H. Cheng, sp. nov.

 

Etymology. From Latin fuscus (violet-brown) and papillatus (with a small papilla), referring to the violet-brown papillate umbo of the pileus.

 Hong Cheng and Tolgor Bau. 2026. Two New Species and One New Record of Bolbitius (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) from northeast China. MycoKeys. 140: 299-316. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.140.203173 [23 Sep 2026]

[Phycology • 2026] Halymenia dracophylla & H. elegans (Rhodophyta: Halymeniales) • Systematic Revision of branched Halymenia from the Philippines

Halymenia elegans Tahil & Showe M.Lin, 

in Tahil, Lin, Dumilag et Liao, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/09670262.2026.2738911 

 facebook.com/ArkadyTahil

ABSTRACT

Despite early documentation of Halymenia species in the Philippines, the species diversity and phylogenetic relationships of this genus in the region, and its connections to neighbouring areas, have remained largely unexplored. In this study, we used rbcL sequence data to infer interspecific relationships among Philippine and global Halymenia species. Molecular analyses identified at least nine Halymenia species in the Philippines, including two newly described taxa – H. dracophylla sp. nov. and H. elegans sp. nov. – alongside several species commonly found throughout the IndoPacific (e.g. H. durvillei, H. tondoana, H. malaysiana, H. maculata, H. dilatata). Phylogenetic analysis showed that H. dracophylla is a sister species to the H. durvillei complex, but it can be readily distinguished by its thallus bearing numerous strap-shaped, short bladelets and having relatively large carposporophytes (260−380 µm in diameter). Conversely, H. elegans forms a lineage sister to a larger clade of branched Indo-Pacific species and differs from the other species by possessing thin, membranous thallus blades and having smaller carposporophytes (100−115 µm in diameter). The discovery of these two new species, along with the identification of additional cryptic taxa through molecular analyses, reveals that Halymenia diversity in the Philippines is greater than previously recognized. These findings highlight the need for continued investigation into the taxonomy and biogeography of Halymenia in the Indo-Pacific region.

 KEYWORDS: Cryptic species, Halymenia dracophylla sp. nov., Halymenia elegans sp. nov., marine red algae, Philippines, taxonomy

Halymenia dracophylla Tahil & Showe M.Lin sp. nov. 
Fig. 2. Holotype specimen (NTOU002614), a female gametophyte showing densely overlapping bladelets along the thallus margins.
Fig. 3. Isotype specimen (NTOU002618), a tetrasporophyte showing a deeply branched thallus blade arising from a short stipe (arrow).

Scale bars: Figs 2, 3 = 5 cm.

Halymenia dracophylla Tahil & Showe M.Lin, sp. nov.  

ETYMOLOGY: ‘dracophylla’ refers to the thallus blades swinging underwater, resembling flying dragons.

DISTRIBUTION, HABITAT AND SEASONALITY: Only known from the province of Sorsogon in southern Luzon. Plants were found during the late dry season (May) in the Philippines, in deeper subtidal areas (6–8 m in depth), growing on coral rubble and rocks. The fringing reef habitat is characterized by strong water currents and pronounced tidal waves.

SPECIMENS EXAMINED: Luzon Island: FMB Resort, Sorsogon, coll. J. Dig & C. Pangantihon 7 May 2024 (tetrasporic and female, NTOU-002614–002616).

Halymenia elegans Tahil & Showe M.Lin sp. nov. 
 Fig. 20. Holotype specimen (NTOU002610), a female gametophyte showing a palmate-shaped blade (white arrow) and feathery branches bearing numerous small bladelets (black arrows) with dentate margins.
Fig. 21. Isotype specimen (NTOU002611), a tetrasporophyte showing broad blades bearing irregularly arranged marginal bladelets (black arrows) and surface tiny bladelets (white arrowheads).  

Scale bars: Figs 20, 21 = 5 cm.

Halymenia elegans Tahil & Showe M.Lin sp. nov. 

ETYMOLOGY: ‘elegans’ referring to its showy and beautiful thallus blades.

DISTRIBUTION, HABITAT AND SEASONALITY: Only known from the type locality. Plants were found during the early dry season (January) in the Philippines, growing on shaded rocks in the reef adjacent to an estuary and extensive mangrove area on the island of Sanga-Sanga.

SPECIMENS EXAMINED: Sanga-Sanga Island, Tawi-Tawi: Lakit-Lakit, coll. A. Tahil, 28 January 2024 (tetrasporic & female, NTOU002610–002613).

Arkady A. Tahil, Showe-Mei Lin, Richard V. Dumilag and Lawrence M. Liao. 2026. Systematic Revision of branched Halymenia (Halymeniales, Rhodophyta) from the Philippines, including the Description of H. dracophylla sp. nov. and H. elegans sp. nov. European Journal of Phycology. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/09670262.2026.2738911 [22 Oct 2026]

 facebook.com/ArkadyTahil/posts/1632008041710139

 facebook.com/ArkadyTahil/posts/1633086811602262

[Herpetology • 2026] Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis • A striking New Subgenus and Species of Asian horned toads (Anura: Megophryidae) from Xizang, China

Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis Liu, Zhang, Chen & Yuan,
Viridophrys Liu, Zhang, Chen & Yuan, subgen. nov.

in Liu, Zhang, Wei, Ai, Lu, Li, Zhou, Chen et Yuan, 2026. 

墨脱绿角蟾  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.183945

Abstract

Motuo County, located in the eastern Himalayas and within the lower section of the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, is characterized by steep elevational gradients and complex topography, supporting high levels of biodiversity and endemism that remain insufficiently explored. Based on integrated evidence from morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses, a new subgenus and a new species of Asian horned toads from Motuo County, Xizang, China, are described. The new subgenus, Viridophrys subgen. nov., with its type species Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov., represents an independent evolutionary lineage within the broadly defined Megophrys, as supported by mitochondrial and nuclear DNA analyses. Although its exact sister-group relationship is not consistently resolved among different datasets, the new lineage is phylogenetically close to the subgenera Brachytarsophrys and Atympanophrys. Morphologically, the new subgenus can be distinguished from other major megophryine lineages by a combination of morphological characters. The discovery of Viridophrys subgen. nov. and M. (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov. highlights the underestimated diversity of megophryids in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon region and emphasizes the need for continued biodiversity surveys and conservation efforts in the eastern Himalayas.

Key Words: Himalayas, Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov., taxonomy, Viridophrys subgen. nov., Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon region

Megophryinae Bonaparte, 1850

Genus Megophrys Kuhl & van Hasselt, 1822

Subgenus Viridophrys Liu, Zhang, Chen & Yuan, subgen. nov.

 Type species. Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis
Liu, Zhang, Chen & Yuan, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The subgenus Viridophrys subgen. nov. can be distinguished from other subgenera within the broadly defined Megophrys by the following diagnostic characteristics: (1) medium body size, mean SVL < 50 mm in adult females; (2) dorsal skin rough, with vivid green dorsal coloration and reddish markings, and ventral surfaces covered with irregular blotches; (3) head wider than long; (4) snout obtusely rounded and without rostral appendage; (5) maxillary teeth present; (6) vomerine teeth and vomerine ridges absent; (7) palpebral appendages absent, with minute tubercles along the outer edge of the upper eyelid; (8) temporal region short, tympanum large, distinct, close to posterior corner of eye, supratympanic fold thick and slightly curved over tympanum; (9) occipital fold absent; (10) dorsolateral fold absent; (11) presence of V-shaped parietoscapular ridge and arcuate central dorsal ridge; (12) flanks bearing scattered white-tipped tubercles, with a few tubercles occasionally present along the ventrolateral boundary; (13) lower jaw smooth, asperities absent; (14) subarticular tubercles on fingers absent; (15) webbing between toes is absent, toe fringe is lacking (Figs 4, 5).

Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov. adult female holotype SWU 0015893 in life.
A. Dorsal view; B. Ventral view; C. Dorsolateral view; D. Profile of head; E. Cloacal area.

Photographs by Ren-Da Ai.

Habitat of Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov. at the type locality, Beibeng Township, Motuo County, Nyingchi City, Xizang Autonomous Region, China. A. Broadleaf and coniferous mixed forest; B. Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis sp. nov. in the wild (SWU 0015893).

Habitat photograph by Wen-Zhu Lu. Species photograph by Ren-Da Ai.

Etymology. The subgeneric name Viridophrys subgen. nov. is derived from the Latin viridis, meaning green, and the Greek ophrys, meaning eyebrow, in reference to the extensive green markings on the dorsum of the new taxon. The gender of the name is feminine.

Common name. Green horned toad subgenus /
Lǜ jiǎo chán yà shǔ (绿角蟾亚属).

Megophrys (Viridophrys) motuoensis Liu, Zhang, Chen & Yuan, sp. nov.

Etymology. The name “motuoensis” originated from the type locality: Motuo County, Nyingchi City, Xizang Autonomous Region, China.

Common name. Motuo green horned toad /
Mò tuō lǜ jiǎo chán (墨脱绿角蟾).

 

Xiao-Long Liu, Yin-Peng Zhang, Ping-Fan Wei, Ren-Da Ai, Wen-Zhu Lu, Xian-Qi Li, Wei-Wei Zhou, Jin-Min Chen and Zhi-Yong Yuan. 2026. A striking New Subgenus and Species of Asian horned toads (Anura, Megophryidae, Megophryinae) from Xizang, China.  Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(5): 1295-1313. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.183945 [21 Oct 2026]