Updated Checklist Research Articles

New records and an updated list of reptiles from Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam

Thanh Hoa Province is located in North Central Vietnam and the Province contains a large area of 393,361.33 hectares of natural forest. A complexity of landforms has given this Province a high level of biodiversity potential. However, the reptile fauna of Thanh Hoa Province is still underestimated. Previous studies documented 111 species of reptiles from this Province. As a result of our field surveys in Pu Luong and Xuan Lien Nature Reserves, we report five species of reptiles for the first time from Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, namely Plestiodon tamdaoensis, Scincella devorator (Scincidae), Elaphe taeniura, Pareas macularius and Pseudoxenodon macrops (Colubridae), with novel data about morphological characteristics. In addition, we provide an updated checklist of 116 species of reptiles from Thanh Hoa Province. The reptile fauna of Thanh Hoa Province also contains a number of species of conservation concern: 22 species listed in the Red Data Book of Vietnam, 22 species listed in the IUCN Red List, 18 species listed in the Vietnam Governmental Decree No. 84; and 21 species listed in CITES appendices.

Three new species of the genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding, 1979 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini) from China, with an updated checklist and key to species

In this study, three new bamboo-feeding species of the genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding, 1979 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini), B. caudospina Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov., B. laterospina Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov. and B. striola Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov. from Southwest China, are described and illustrated, bringing the total number of species in the genus to 34. An updated identification key and checklist to all known species of Bambusiphaga are provided.

A Brief Review of the Microweiseinae (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) of the Indian Region, Including Description of a New Species

Indian species of Microweiseinae are reviewed, comprising eight species (five species of Serangium Blackburn, one species of Microserangium Miyatake, and two species of Scymnomorphus Weise, including one new species from the southern Indian state of Kerala, Scymnomorphus ochraceus sp. n.). Illustrated diagnostic accounts are given for all species with details of distribution, biology, and host insects, wherever they are known. Immature stages are illustrated for Serangium parcesetosum Sicard and Serangium chapini (Kapur). An updated checklist of the Microweiseinae of India is given. The need for focused collections and systematic studies to unearth the hidden diversity of Indian Microweiseinae is discussed, and comments on their poor utilization in applied biological control in India are made.

Shedding Light on the Shadows: Hidden Diversity in the Italian Embioptera

In order to better understand the differences at the species level in webspinners (Embioptera), the authors applied a different approach rather than the usual slide mounting, which has been traditionally used in the study of these insects. The dissection of the male terminalia, besides avoiding the limits of definitive preparations, which prevent a complete comparison of the type material, allowed a complete understanding and comparison of these three-dimensional structures. This new method, which does not necessarily exclude the previous approach, allowed the authors to identify and describe three new species in Italy: from Tuscany (Embia specolensis sp. nov.), Ventotene Island (Embia pandateriensis sp. nov.), and Calabria (Embia brutia sp. nov.). Moreover, this charts a new path in the study of these interesting insects, which have so far been largely neglected. In addition to several new records resulting from the revision of some collections, this contribution provides an updated checklist and a provisional key for the Italian Embioptera.

CLITELLATE (ANNELIDA: CLITELLATA) PARASITES AND PREDATORS OF NORTH AMERICAN HERPETOFAUNA: CHECKLIST OF SPECIES, IDENTIFICATION KEY, AND A NEW RECORD FOR MEXICO.

An updated checklist of leeches and oligochaetes (Annelida: Clitellata) that parasitize or prey upon wild North American amphibians and reptiles is presented: A total of 25 species grouped in 6 genera, 5 families, and 2 orders, are registered; these infect a total of 39 species of reptiles and 39 species of amphibians in the region. An illustrated identification key for the families and genera listed is proposed. Finally, a new record is made for Mexico: the leech Placobdella parasitica (Say, 1824) (Glossiphoniidae) parasitizing the Mesoamerican slider Trachemys venusta (Gray, 1856) (Emydidae) in the state of Tamaulipas.

Family-level diversity of Coleoptera (Insecta) from the Nanling Mountains and the Greater Bay Area, China

Coleoptera comprise 198 families and over 440,000 species to date, of which 143 families and over 35,000 species are known in China. Of these, only 64 families have been recorded in Guangdong Province, fewer than in Hong Kong. To investigate the insect diversity of Guangdong, numerous specimens were collected from the Nanling Mountains and the Greater Bay Area using various methods, and over 200,000 specimens of Coleoptera were assigned to families. Thus, a preliminary study of beetles at the family-level in Guangdong is carried out based on the examined specimens and historical records. An updated checklist of beetle families in Guangdong increases the number of families from 64 to 111, in which Eupsilobiidae is recorded for the first time in China and a new species, Eidoreus haizhuensis sp. nov. is described here, demonstrating the importance of persistent collecting with different methods for the study of insect diversity. Habitus images of most of the beetle families occurring in Guangdong are provided. And the updated records are compared in detail with the published records, showing that more families may potentially be found in Guangdong, requiring further field work and taxonomists working on niche groups.

Updated checklist of the bopyrid isopods (Epicaridea: Bopyroidea) from Mexico

Based on an extensive bibliographic review, an updated checklist of epicaridean isopods belonging to Bopyroidea recorded from Mexico is provided. A total of 55 species distributed in 3 families, 10 subfamilies and 39 genera are listed. Of these, 8 species (14.5%) have been registered only in Mexico so far, 36 species (65.4%) are distributed along the Atlantic coast and 19 (34.5%) along the Pacific coast. The lower diversity of these parasites in the latter region could reveal insufficient sampling of potential hosts. Approximately 80% of the bopyrid species parasitize individuals belonging to the infraorders Caridea (27 species, 50%) and Anomura (17 species, 30.9%). Type-localities and updated data on their known geographic ranges along both Mexican coast and those of other regions are included for all the species.

An overview of the estuarine ichthyofauna from Bahia, Brazil: expanding the knowledge about the fish species of three important regions of the state

ABSTRACT The coast of Bahia state is the longest along the Brazilian coastline, and there are significant knowledge gaps concerning its estuarine fish fauna. Thus, there is a need to provide extensive coverage of the estuarine ichthyofauna of Bahia to provide an updated checklist of its fishes, which could function as a database for the management of such biodiversity. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize three different important estuarine systems (Camamu, Todos os Santos Bay, and Caravelas) in Bahia to contribute information on the ichthyofauna in shallow areas of the state. We recorded 29 orders, 54 families, 101 genera, and 147 species of fish. The families with the highest number of species were Sciaenidae and Carangidae, with twelve and nine species, respectively, followed by Gobiidae and Engraulidae, each with eight species. In terms of abundance in the northern region, the orders Atheriniformes (28.80%), Pleuronectiformes (15.92%), Clupeiformes (14.20%), and Gerreiformes (13.91%) predominated. In the Central region, Gerreiformes (21.55%), Tetraodontiformes (17.94%), Gobiiformes (12.83%), and Clupeiformes (8.94%) were the most representative. In the southern region, the orders Clupeiformes (57.48%), Mugiliformes (14.09%), Atheriniformes (4.10%), Lutjaniformes (3.97%), Gerreiformes (3.60%), and Carangiformes (2.23%) predominated. The region was characterized by a high representation of guilds of marine migrant species, followed by marine, estuarine, and freshwater visitors.

An overview of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest species of Pachythone Bates (Lepidoptera: Riodinidae), with the description of a new species and an updated checklist of Pachythonina

The taxonomy of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest endemic species belonging to the Neotropical metalmark genus Pachythone Bates, 1868 is revised. A new endemic species is described, Pachythone gagarini Dolibaina & Dias, sp. nov., based on historical specimens from a single locality in Rio de Janeiro state. Adults and genitalia of the new species are illustrated and described in detail. Pachythone palades Hewitson, (1873) and P. pasicles Hewitson, (1873), described from females and males, respectively, and regarded as two distinct species since their descriptions, are here recognized as a single species, the former being considered a junior subjective synonym of the latter (syn. nov.). Lectotypes are designated for both P. palades and P. pasicles. Pachythone sumare Callaghan, 1999, so far known from its type locality in Rio de Janeiro state, is here reported from Joinville, Santa Catarina, which extends its occurrence 700 km southwards. Lastly, an updated checklist for the recently proposed subtribe Pachythonina is given.

The Polychaetous Annelids of Japan: Updated Checklist of Known Species

The Polychaetous Annelids of Japan: Updated Checklist of Known Species

Patterns of Zoological Diversity in Iran—A Review

Iran is a country characterized by high biodiversity and complex biogeographic patterns. Its diverse landscape and steep climatic gradients have resulted in significant faunal diversity and high level of endemism. To better understand these patterns, we investigated the historical environmental drivers that have shaped Iran’s current geological and climatological conditions, and, consequently, have shaped the current zoological distribution patterns. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the country’s zoological diversity and zoogeography by reviewing published studies on its fauna. We analyzed nearly all available catalogs, updated checklists, and relevant publications, and synthesized them to present a comprehensive overview of Iran’s biodiversity. Our review reports approximately 37,500 animal species for Iran. We also demonstrated that the country serves as a biogeographic transition zone among three zoogeographical realms: the Palearctic, Oriental, and Saharo-Arabian, where distinct faunal elements intersect. This biogeographic complexity has made it challenging to delineate clear zoogeographical zones, leading to varying classifications depending on the taxon. The uplift of mountain ranges, in particular, has played a crucial role in shaping faunal diversity by serving as barriers, corridors, and glacial refugia. These mountains are largely the result of orogeny and plate collisions during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras, coupled with the development of the Tethyan Sea and the uplift of several ranges during the Miocene. Despite these insights, our understanding of biodiversity distribution in Iran remains incomplete, even for some well-studied taxa, such as certain vertebrate families and arthropods. We highlight the existing gaps in knowledge regarding zoogeographical patterns and propose approaches to address these gaps, particularly concerning less-studied species and the highly diverse group of insects.

New and rare myxomycetes (Mycetozoa, Myxogastria) in Norway Part 2

In this paper, 51 myxomycete species and 8 varieties are reported as new to Norway. Of these, 40 species are reported from the Nordic/Baltic region for the first time. This paper brings the number of myxomycetes known from Norway to a total of 414 species and 31 varieties. An updated checklist of Norwegian myxomycete species and varieties is provided, as well as a list of Norwegian vernacular names.

The benthic and epiphytic marine dinoflagellates of Aotearoa New Zealand and Rangitāhua Kermadec Islands, an updated checklist from 2018 to 2024

ABSTRACT A checklist collating records of New Zealand’s benthic and epiphytic dinoflagellate species was published on-line in 2018 [Rhodes L, Smith KF. 2019. A checklist of the benthic and epiphytic marine dinoflagellates of New Zealand, including Rangitāhua/Kermadec Islands. N Z J Mar Freshw Res. 53:258–277. doi:10.1080/00288330.2018.1492425]. Over the last six years, seventeen species from nine genera (three newly reported genera) have been documented, including sand-dwelling species. Isolation and identification of species using traditional microscopic techniques combined with analysis of DNA sequencing data has been supplemented by high-throughput sequencing techniques (i.e. metabarcoding). Toxin data, based on liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and toxicity of isolates are included where applicable. Forty-two benthic and epiphytic dinoflagellate genera, including genera having benthic life stages, have now been recorded in Aotearoa New Zealand coastal waters including Rangitāhua Kermadec Islands (new record genera in bold): Adenoides , Alexandrium, Amphidinium, Archaeperidinium, Azadinium, Biecheleria, Blastodinium, Bysmatrum, Cachonina, Coolia, Crypthecodinium, Cryptoperidiniopsis, Dinophysis, Durinskia, Ensiculifera, Fukuyoa, Fragilidium, Gambierdiscus, Gonyaulax, Gymnodinium, Gyrodinium, Heterocapsa, Karenia, Karlodinium, Kryptoperidinium, Lepidodinium, Ostreopsis, Pelagodinium, Pentapharsodinium, Pfiesteria, Polarella, Prorocentrum, Protodinium, Protoperidinium, Pseudadenoides , Pseudopfiesteria, Scrippsiella, Symbiodinium, Thecadinium , Togula, Vulcanodinium and Woloszynskia.

Updated checklist with new records and molecular data for the mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) of Hong Kong.

An extensive mosquito survey was carried out in Hong Kong from September to October 2022, employing a variety of collection methods. Specimens were identified using a combination of morphology and mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (COI) barcode sequences. Twenty-nine species, including three new records, i.e., Culex bicornutus (Theobald), Culex cinctellus Edwards, and Lutzia chiangmaiensis Somboon & Harbach, were collected. Phylogenetic analysis of COI sequences of Culex annulus Theobald and Culex vishnui Theobald collected in Hong Kong and elsewhere revealed that the sequences of the two nominal species are genetically very similar and are included in the same clade. Consequently, the synonymy of Cx. annulus with Cx. vishnui is reinstated. Lutzia halifaxii (Theobald) is removed from the list of species in Hong Kong and is replaced with Lutzia vorax Edwards, the identification of which is confirmed in the present study. The record of Culex spiculothorax Bram recorded in Hong Kong is replaced with the senior synonym Culex sasai Kano, Nitahara & Awaya. The occurrence of Anopheles fluviatilis James and Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) is discussed. Finally, an updated checklist of the mosquitoes of Hong Kong, which now includes 76 species representing 14 genera, is provided, with notation of those species that vector pathogens of human diseases.

Rediscovery of lewisi Distant, 1903 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from India after a Century from the Oriental Region with an Updated Checklist from The World

Rediscovery of lewisi Distant, 1903 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from India after a Century from the Oriental Region with an Updated Checklist from The World

A checklist of butterflies of Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) campus, Anaikatty, Western Ghats, India

An updated checklist of butterfly species recorded from the Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) campus, constitute a total of 178 species of butterflies, including previous records of 101 species. The butterfly species represent Papilionidae (17), Pieridae (22), Nymphalidae (55), Lycaenidae (54), Riodinidae (1) and Hesperiidae (29). Seventy-seven species are new additions. Among the 178 species, 56 (31.46%) were found to be very common, 74 (41.57%) were moderately common, 42 (23.60%) were rare and 6 (3.37%) as very rare in sightings. Ninety plant species belonging to 33 families as larval host plants of 160 butterfly species were also recorded in the present study. Host plants of 18 species of butterflies were not available in the study area.

First report of acifer group of the subgenus Tripodura Townes (Diptera: Chironomidae: Polypedilum) from India, with a new species and updated world checklist

A new species of the acifer group of the subgenus Tripodura and genus Polypedilum Kieffer is described on the basis of adult male. The acifer species group is recorded firstly from India. The molecular barcoding of the new species is provided. Moreover, molecular phylogeny of all available species of the subgenus Tripodura, along with an Indian key based on adult males of this subgenus have been designed here. Additionally, a world checklist of the subgenus Tripodura has also been furnished in this study.

Diversity of Rotifera in Freshwaters of Bolivia: An Updated Checklist

Biodiversity records are of great importance, especially in light of the biodiversity crisis. Here, we present a study on the diversity of rotifers in Bolivia based on an extensive investigation of the literature published so far. Through this approach and an analysis of samples from 207 water bodies of the country, we updated the checklist of reported species. This study revealed a total of 195 species of rotifers previously reported; we identified 153 species in our samples, with 84 of them being reported for the first time in Bolivia. Thus, a total of 279 species are known at present in this country. Our findings suggest that Bolivia has a rich and diverse rotifer community, with many species likely to be unique to the region.

The marine cartilaginous fishes and sturgeons of the Sea of Marmara: an updated and annotated checklist

A revised checklist of sharks, batoids, and sturgeons in the Sea of Marmara, Turkey encompasses 41 species across 18 families. It provides a concise historical context and addresses issues related to problematic reports. Furthermore, the paper delves into the analysis of taxonomic changes in other literature reports, aiming to provide a framework for upcoming ichthyological surveys and ecological studies, while also presenting relevant data on the economic significance of select species.

An updated checklist of the Anthomyiidae (Diptera) of mainland Portugal, with 52 new species to the country

Abstract The family Anthomyiidae (Diptera) has received very little attention in Portugal and as a consequence the state of knowledge of this group of flies in the country is very insufficient. Until now, only 20 species were known for mainland Portugal, but non-systematic sampling carried out over more than 10 years allowed the discovery of 52 new species for the country, 12 of which are also new to the fauna of the Iberian Peninsula, and three additional species new to mainland Portugal (that had already been reported to the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira). An updated checklist of the species that are currently known in mainland Portugal is also provided.