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Institute
In the first years of cinematography, the exhibitors mostly used magic lantern slides to project films titles before the film’s projection. In Europe and in the United States, around 1902–1903, motion pictures started to be sold with edited titles on films, and edited subtitles on multi shot films. From around 1907, as the length and number of shots, subtitles and words increased, there was a kind of competition between the subtitle and the lecturer to explain the films to the audiences. In the transitional period – 1907–1916 –, the trade press and scenario manuals constantly debated subtitle usefulness and limits. On one hand the dream of cinematography as a universal language was incompatible with this device, and the strong ideal of the titleless film advocated that moving pictures should tell stories by themselves, without the aid of any external narration, like theatre plays. On the other hand, there were more realistic approaches: subtitles were unavoidable, as they were essential to make a film understandable. The main recommendation, however, was to use them very sparingly, and only when it was absolutely necessary, because they might spoil suspense by giving a summary of the action in advance, they were also considered to have an adverse impact on the “reality effect”, to be exterior to the story and to interrupt the flow of images. Despite the reluctances and ambivalences towards it, as the industry organized itself in the 1910’s the subtitle was retooled, and became conventional and largely used for the construction of the classical narrative film.
Since 150 years, the surroundings of Meran in the Etsch valley (Prov. Alto Adige (Südtirol), Italy) are known as an extraordinary place for rare bryophyte species. It is an attraction for bryologists, who collect species, which are found in Europe only in a few places in the southern Alps. The region is especially well known by the fieldwork of Julius Milde, who stayed there 2 years and described some species as new. In spite of the bryological importance of this region, descriptions of this area as well comments on the phytogeographical background seem to lack.
A catalogue of 107 species of liverworts (Marchantiophyta) and 8 species of hornworts (Anthocerotophyta), recorded from Assam, India is presented. This includes three new records for India viz., Cololejeunea denticulata (Horik.) S. Hatt., C. inflata Steph., Plagiochila furcifolia Mitt., and three species viz., Cololejeunea desciscens Steph. Colura ari (Steph.) Steph., Lopholejeunea eulopha (Taylor) Schiffn. new to mainland. Twelve species are new record for Eastern Himalayan bryo-geographical territory, 20 species as new to Assam and seven species are endemic to Indian regions.
The determination of complete DNA sequence of mitochondrial genome of liverwort, Marchantia polymorpha, opens the way to study the structure and organization of mitochondrial genomes of bryophytes. Since then several studies to sequence mitochondrial genomes of various plant groups have been made. Consequently 71 mitochondrial genomes (as on September 28, 2012) of Viridiplantae are available in organelle genome resources database at National Center for Biotechnology Information. Among these mitochondrial genomes the lineage sampling of bryophytes are poorly represented with only three liverworts, two mosses and two hornworts. The present review deals with features of sequenced mitochondrial genomes of bryophytes.
District Rajouri harbours a rich floral and faunal diversity besides varying climatic zones namely sub-tropical, temperate and alpine. The region exhibit significant altitudinal variations ranging from 490 m. to 4700 m. The present study was conducted to report bryophytic elements of the study area as there is no previous work done on this aspect from the study area, except some stray references. A total of 44 bryophyte species belonging to 4 orders, 16 families and 21 genera were reported from the study area. A checklist of the reported plant species with family, distributional range and habitat is presented in the paper. Besides contributing to the regional and national biodiversity check list database, the present study has opened up a new window for the future studies on the various aspects of the reported taxa including extensive exploration for the updation of the present list and to study the conservational aspects of the disappearing bryoflora of the region.
Leptodontium styriacum shall be distinguished from the closely related L. flexifolium by the frequent occurrence of gemmae, leaves ending in a hyaline cell and larger laminal cells. A critical evaluation of these characters revealed that these differences are obsolete. Therefore both species are synonymised with the result, that L. flexifolium has a disjunct range between the oceanic parts of Europe and the Alps, a distribution pattern also found in several other species.
Since the availability of first complete DNA sequence of chloroplast genome of Marchantia polymorpha several studies to determine the structure and organization of chloroplast genomes of various plant groups have been made. However the lineage sampling of bryophytes are poorly represented in complete chloroplast genome sequences (only three liverworts, two mosses and one hornwort). This review presents features of sequenced chloroplast genomes of bryophytes.
Bryophytes (liverworts, mosses and hornworts) hold the basal most position among extant land plants. The present study deals with comparative analysis of available mitochondrial genomes of bryophytes using bioinformatics tools. These mitochondrial genomes belong to 2 liverworts, 1 moss and 2 hornworts. The analysis is based on multiple genome analysis through whole proteome comparison to detect conservation between mitochondrial genomes of bryophytes.
Bryoflora of Munsyari and Dharchula Tehsil of Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, Western Himalayas, India
(2012)
Uttarakhand state of India comprises unique topographical conditions and hence is rich in bryophytes. In present work two Tehsils-Munsyari and Dharchula of Pithoragarh have been explored extensively to assess the bryophytic wealth of this district. A preliminary checklist has been prepared which revealed the occurrence of 51 taxa of bryophytes from this district.
Scopelophila cataractae, a species on heavy metal rich substrates, was first recorded for Europe in 1967 from Britain and subsequently recorded from many localities contaminated with heavy metal especially around zinc works. It was found in Germany on schist-walls nearby mines from the nineteenth century. This could indicate that the species was present in Europe already prior to 1967 but overlooked. Records even from solid rock nearby mines suggest a status as native species, however, the species had not been observed in the inrtensively floristically studied region before 1870.
Based on collections of the author in February and March 2012, Notothylas breutelii, Syzigiella perfoliata, Campylopus lamellinervis. as well as the genus Riccia are reported as new to the Dominican Republic. Sixteen new provincial records are given. Updated and revised lists of the mosses of the Dominican republic as well as the province of La Plata are given.
The habitat as well as the unicellular thallus margins of Aneura maxima lead to the assumption that this species could be a hygromorphosis of A. pinguis. Therefore specimens of A. pinguis were cultivated in water. Even after four months the multicellular thallus margins were retained, which proved to be a stable character to separate A. pinguis from A. maxima. Therefore plants even with a small unistratose border, which are attributed to aquatic forms of A. pinguis, may belong to A. maxima. It is supposed that A. maxima was overlooked in Europe but regarded as aquatic forms of A. pinguis named as fo. rivularis. Such plants show unicellular thallus margins and are regarded as hygrophytic form of A. maxima. The presence viz. absence of an unicellular thallus margin seems to be a sufficient character to separate both species. The discussion about the width of the unistratose thallus margin is useless because the type of A. maxima has only 2-4 rows of unicellular cells and not 6-12 or more as attributed by European hepaticologists. This raises doubts whether the European material is identical with A. maxima rather with A. pellioides from Japan.
A preliminary study has been made for Borail Wild Life Sanctuary, Assam, India. A total of 25 species of liverwort (Marchantiophyta) and one species of hornwort (Anthocerotophyta) have been enumerated. Of these, Frullania berthoumieuii is new to India, Caudalejeunea reniloba new to North East India, 13 species new to Assam and 11 species are reported for the first time from Borail WLS. Folioceros paliformis is rediscovered after its type.
In succession of terrestrial ecosystem, bryophytes, algae and lichens constitute the primary components. Not only phylogenetically but also physically they are related to each other, as they are also found in close association and intermixed with each other on same substratum. A chlorophycean alga Ulothrix zonata (Weber & Mohr) Kützing has been found growing as an epiphyte on moss Macromitrium sulcatum (Hook.) Brid.. The association is peculiar as the algal filaments form a close net over the surface of moss leaves and axis.
Germinating tests with bryophytes were undertaken with three moss species and two hepatic species. For the first time these tests were performed with aquaceous extracts of bryophytes in contrast to previous studies in which seeds were directly placed on moist bryophytes. First tests showed an inhibition of the germination rate in 3 species but an increase of the germination in one species. A second study revealed that aquaceous as well as alcoholic extracts in high concentrations inhibited the growth of cress, highly diluted extracts promoted the growth. Other authors found either only germination promoting effects or both, promoting and inhibiting effects. Experiments with compounds extracted from bryophytes cited in the literature had only growth inhibiting effects. Brachythecium rutabulum revealed growth inhibiting effects in a previous but growth promoting effects in this study. The conflicting results are hard to explain and should stimulate further more detailed studies. They maybe due to various combinations of different concentrations of bryophyte extracts, different bryophyte species, different pH and different seeds but also contamination by dust, soil, bacteria and fungi .
Plants variable in size and appearence, from a few mm to more than 10 cm tall, in loose to dense tufts. Stems erect, simple, rarely branched, radiculose, sometimes densely tomentose; rhizoids reddish-brown to whitish. Leaves erect-patent, sometimes curled when dry or falcate (sometimes erect and falcate expressions in the same species), short to longly lanceolate, often subulate; margins entire or serrate at leaf tips; costa single, percurrent to short excurrent, sometimes hyaline excurrent, filling 1/6 to 4/5 of leaf width, in transverse-section with median deuter cells and dorsal stereids, rarely hyalocysts, ventrally either stereids or more rarely hyalocysts; laminal cells usually smooth, occasionally bulging mammillose, cell walls smooth; alar cells differentiated or not, when distinct, hyaline or reddish brown, inflated, thin-walled or incrassate, basal laminal cells mostly rectangular, thin-walled or incrassate, occasionally pitted, upper laminal cells quadrate to rectangular or oval, leaf border present in some taxa. Vegetative propagation by microphyllous branches, deciduous leaves or stem tips, or anisophyllous brood leaves in the axils of the upper leaves. Dioicous or autoicous. Perichaetia terminal, or occasionally pseudolateral by stem innovations, perichaetial leaves often different in shape, from sheathing base subulate. Seta mostly elongate (1-4 cm), rarely short (<1 cm) or almost absent, erect, in few genera flexuose, cygneously curved and twisted. Capsule immersed to more commonly exserted, inclined to suberect or erect, symmetric to asymmetric, short long-cylindrical to ovoid-cylindrical or ovoid,, smooth or furrowed when dry and empty; stomata present or absent; annulus present or absent. Operculum conical to long-rostrate. Peristome single, teeth 16, mostly divided 1/2 or more toward base, vertically striate below, distally papillose to papillose throughout. Calyptra cucullate, smooth, naked, base entire or ciliate. Spores almost smooth to coarsely papillose.
The Chocó region in Colombia is one of the wettest rainforests regions in the world. Isolated for about 3 million years, it is known for its high rate of endemism in flowering plants, ferns, birds and butterflies. Bryophytes (mosses and liverworts) of this region, however, were very unsufficiently known. For this reason, a first survey of the bryoflora of the Chocó region was made in 1992 along a transect from sea level to 1800 m elevation. Apparently because of the high precipitation with up to 12 m annual rainfall, terrestrial species were found growing on bark or corticolous species on leaves. The cover of epiphytic bryophytes is higher than elsewhere, especially in the lowland forest which shows usually a low bryophyte cover. The percentage of mosses compared with that of liverworts is much lower than elsewhere. Mosses form only about 10% of the bryophyte cover in contrast to 40-50% in the according elevation in other rain forest regions.
Since the existence of Nilgiri hills, bryophyte- the miniatures of plant kingdom play an important and crucial role in the stabilization of Blue Mountains ecology. Unlike Himalayas, the landslides were rare in the area, but with the time and changing global environment it had become a common sight. Significantly ever increasing population and vehicular traffic is the prime reason for them, to cater the need, roads are periodically broadened by cutting road sides destroying the habitat as also the inhabiting species. Bryophytes, are efficient soil binders that regulate the soil moisture and provide substrate for future plant succession. The habitat loss and nudeness of substratum gives impetus to rapid soil erosion that further enhances the problem of their very survival. The present communication provides significance of these avascular cryptogams in environmental assessment, ecological balance and their role in decreasing the pore pressure to check land slides.
Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts) are the most basal lineages among extant land plants. However, there is controversy regarding their monophyletic or paraphyletic origin. Moreover, the most basal group of bryophytes also remains questionable. Due to this it is a matter of debate which lineage of bryophytes acts as transition link between bryophytes and pteridophytes. In order to resolve these issues we conducted a bioinformatics analysis on available chloroplast genomes of 1 green alga, 5 bryophytes, 4 pteridophytes, and 6 gymnosperms. Our study is based on multiple genome analysis through whole proteome comparison. The higher number of orthologous identified in Anthoceros (a hornwort), in comparison to other bryophytes considered, against all pteridophytes strongly support hornworts as transition link between bryophytes and pteridophytes.
The development of and the changes in the classification of bryophytes are shown over the last two centuries. It is shown that, except for an early period, the bryophyte system was never totally revised but was always only slightly improved, in which the ideas of a bryophyte system has undergone some kind of evolution but was never drastically changed. Neither the evolution theory in the last century nor the results of cytology, phytochemistry, computerbased studies or genetics in this century had drastically altered the bryophyte system. The reasons for the never totally changed but always slightly improved classification of bryophytes seem to be that recognition of systematic units is based on certain principles such as hierachical classification, types and algorithms of comparison. Therefore it is postulated that no general changes in the classification of bryophytes are to be expected in the future.
Parson’s valley is an area explored for the first time in Indian Bryology; it is situated in Nilgiri hills (Western Ghats). The region is very conducive for the growth of liverworts and it is evident by the present study of recent collections from this area in which 27 taxa (under 12 genera and 5 families) of liverworts have been recorded, of which few are new to Nilgiri hills as well as south India.
Notes on a small Odonata collection from Tawi-Tawi, Sanga-Sanga and Jolo islands, Philippines
(2012)
Sulu region is among the least explored faunal region in the Philippine archipelago. Odonatologically, this region is poorly studied until recently. Presently a survey conducted in July 1 – 14, 2011 revealed ten new records in Tawi-Tawi raising the total number of Odonata to 54. Three new species records were made for Sanga-Sanga raising the known number in that island to 34. Three species were recorded for the first time in Jolo raising the total number to 18. One new species of damselfly was found and several questionable and possible new species of dragonflies were documented.
Records of Odonata collected from Gunung Pueh and the surrounding area, in west Sarawak, in October 2012, are presented. 67 species were collected; two species were recorded in Borneo for the first time: Libellago stigmatizans and Copera ciliata. Othernotable records include Podolestes chrysopus, Telosticta gading, Agriocnemis mini-ma and Pseudagrion coomansi. Some additional, previously unpublished, records from the most western part of Sarawak are included in two appendices.
On 13 July 2010, in a woodland near the village of Verin Khotanan, Armenia, five males of Cordulegaster vanbrinkae were captured. These specimens are documented, compared with the holotype from Iran and discussed in detail. The current protection situation of this species in Armenia is briefly commented. In addition, the locus typicus information of the holotype from Iran is corrected and detailed.
Results of the odonatological survey of the coastal SW regions of Cambodia in August 12-28, 2011 are presented. Those include general notes on the Odonata fauna in late rainy season, enumeration of all records by locality, discussion of interesting specimens and their taxonomy, and notes on habitats and habits of some species. Of 87 named Odonata species encountered during the trip, 15 are reported for the first time for Cambodia, namely Aciagrion hisopa (Selys, 1876), Anax immaculifrons Rambur, 1842, Burmagomphus divaricatus Lieftinck, 1964, Gomphidictinus perakensis (Laidlaw, 1902), Merogomphus parvus (Kruger, 1899), Nepogomphus walli (Fraser, 1924), Idionyx thailandica Hamalainen, 1985, Macromia cupricincta Fraser, 1024, Macromia septima Martin, 1904, Macromidia rapida Martin, 1907, Agrionoptera insignis (Rambur, 1842), Lyriothemis elegantissima Selys, 1883, Onychothemis testacea Laidlaw, 1902, Orthetrum luzonicum (Brauer, 1868), Orthetrum testaceum (Burmeister, 1839). The country list now reaches 125 named species.
The results of an odonatological expedition to the Hose Mountains in central Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo made in April 2011 are presented. During the two-week expedition more than sixty-three species of Odonata were collected, bring the number of species of Odonata known from the Hose Mountains to over ninety-three; a number greater than that recorded from a some of Sarawak’s National Parks. Species of particular interest collected on the expedition include Drepanosticta new species, Protosticta tubau Dow, 2010 and, most notably, Chlorogomphus manau Dow & Ngiam, 2011, which was discovered during the expedition.
Six Odonata species were collected during night light trapping on the Mambilla Pla-teau, Taraba State Nigeria. Being predominantly diurnal insects, odonates captured in light traps have always been considered as an anomaly. The new data initiated an extensive interrogation of all records on Odonata collected near artificial light sources.A total of 415 records (402 published and 13 new) are presented here with a sum-mary of previous discussions and new discussion points. The general conclusion is that odonates are mainly confused by, rather than attracted to the light. New ave-nues for further research in this field are suggested based on previous important stu-dies undertaken on Odonata morphology and physiology.
The South African endemic bee genus Redivivoides Michener, 1981 is revised and redefined. The genus comprises seven species, six of which are described here as new: Redivivoides capensis sp. nov. ♀♂, R. eardleyi sp. nov. ♀, R. kamieskroonensis sp. nov. ♀, R. karooensis sp. nov. ♀♂, R. namaquaensis sp. nov. ♀♂ and R. variabilis sp. nov. ♀♂. A key to species is provided.
The genus Candobrasilopsis gen. nov. is here described, with C. rochai gen. nov. sp. nov. as type species, from the alluvial valley of the Upper Paraná River. The enigmatic Candonopsis brasiliensis Sars, 1901 is here redescribed and transferred to this new genus, the new combination being Candobrasilopsis brasiliensis (Sars, 1901). The new candonid genus belongs to the tribe Candonopsini, because of the absence of the proximal seta on the caudal ramus. It is closely related to Latinopsis Karanovic & Datry, 2009, because of the relatively short terminal segment of the mandibular palp (length less than 1.5 times the basal width, while this segment is longer than three times the basal width in Candonopsis) and the large and stout b-seta on the T1. However, it differs markedly from Latinopsis in the size and shape of the calcified inner lamellae of both valves and in the type of hemipenis. We also discuss the doubtful allocation of several other genera to the Candonopsini, raise Abcandonopsis Karanovic, 2004 to generic status and reassess the uncertain position of Candonopsis anisitsi Daday, 1905 within Latinopsis.
Scolopendrellidae (Myriapoda, Symphyla) from the Afrotropics with descriptions of seven new species
(2012)
Among the Scolopendrellidae belonging to the collection of Symphyla of the Royal Museum for Central Africa (Tervuren, Belgium), ten species were found and seven new species are described: Symphylella erecta sp. nov., S. fuko sp. nov., S. kalundu sp. nov., S. lubumbashi sp. nov., S. malagassa sp. nov., S. tanganyika sp. nov. and Remysymphyla spinosa sp. nov. SEM micrographs and additional information of the new species and also of Remysymphyla hova Aubry & Masson, 1952, Ribautiella zagnanadina Brölemann, 1926 and R. schoutedeni Hinschberger, 1954 are provided, which contributes to an easier determination of the afrotropical scolopendrellid species. The diagnosis of the genus Remysymphyla is discussed.
A new species of pearlfish, Echiodon prionodon, is described from three specimens. This species is diagnosed by having a serrated margin on the posterior edge of the fangs, expanded thoracic plates on some abdominal vertebrae and ventral swimbladder tunic ridges. This species was only found in coastal waters around the North Island of New Zealand. The diagnosis of Eurypleuron is revised.
Iranocichla hormuzensis occupies a biogeographically peculiar position. This endemic of southern Iran is the only Iranian cichlid. While it is phylogenetically related to African oreochromine members of the cichlid family, it remains unclear how it has dispersed into its current range. It is one of the many lasting enigmas of cichlid biogeography. Monogenean fish parasites may provide useful additional information in such cases. Therefore, I. hormuzensis was examined for these flatworms. A gyrodactylid parasite is reported and compared to congeners from the Palearctic and from cichlids. In this way, we verify whether it shows affinities to parasites from fishes that are either biogeographically or phylogenetically close to Iranocichla hormuzensis. The species is new to science and is described as Gyrodactylus jalalii sp. nov. This is the first description of a parasite infecting I. hormuzensis. Because of the fixation method or age of the material, DNA could not be isolated. Due to the lack of genetic data, no conclusions can be drawn on its phylogenetic positioning. Indeed, Gyrodactylus phylogeny cannot be inferred from morphological characteristics alone. Moreover, the congeners phenotypically reminiscent of the new species belong to a Gyrodactylus clade which is highly diverse in geographic range and host choice. Hence, there is no evidence linking the new species to an exclusively African or cichlid-bound Gyrodactylus lineage.
This paper summarizes current knowledge about East African pholcids. East Africa is defined as the area from 12°S to 5°N and from 28° to 42°E, including all of Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, and Tanzania. An annotated list of the 15 genera and 87 species recorded from this area is given, together with distribution maps and an identification key to genera. Most East African species (90%) belong to one of only six genera: Buitinga Huber, 2003 (21 species); Smeringopus Simon, 1890 (18); Pholcus Walckenaer, 1805 (17); Spermophora Hentz, 1841 (12); Leptopholcus Simon, 1893 (5) and Quamtana Huber, 2003 (4). Eight species for which DNA sequence data have been published recently are newly described: Buitinga batwa sp. nov., B. wataita sp. nov., Spermophora mau sp. nov., S. maathaiae sp. nov., S. bukusu sp. nov., S. kirinyaga sp. nov., S. kyambura sp. nov. and Quamtana nyahururu sp. nov. Crossopriza johncloudsleyi Deeleman-Reinhold & van Harten, 2001, previously only known from Yemen, is redescribed based on specimens from Kenya. Additional new records are given for 21 previously described species.
Capalictus, a new subgenus of Lasioglossum Curtis, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Halictidae), endemic to the South African Cape Province, is described. The type species is Halictus mosselinus Cockerell, 1945. Evylaeus (Sellalictus) fynbosensis (Pauly et al., 2008) is a new junior synonym of L. (C.) mosselinum. Three new species are described: Lasioglossum (Capalictus) hantamense sp. nov., L. (C.) tigrinum sp. nov. and L. (C.) timmermanni sp. nov. DNA sequence data from three nuclear genes support morphologically-determined species limits. Capalictus is a basal clade of the Hemihalictus series of Lasioglossum.
Dysponetus is a genus of the family Chrysopetalidae with twelve currently described species. Specimens are fragile and easily damaged or broken during sampling making identification difficult. The most recently described species, Dysponetus joeli Olivier et al., 2012, from the Bay of Biscay and the English Channel, was described from a few small, damaged and poorly preserved specimens. New specimens from the Isles of Scilly, in much better condition, resembled D. joeli except for the absence of ventral cirri on segment 3. Examination of the type material of D. joeli showed it to be identical to these new specimens and highlighted errors in the original description of the species. The present paper corrects the errors and a revised key to species is produced. The differences between D. joeli and the two most similar species, D. bipapillatus Dahlgren, 1996 and D. macroculatus Dahlgren, 1996 are also detailed.
Hortipes gigapophysalis (Araneae, Corinnidae) is a new species described from both sexes from montane forest on Mt Nimba, eastern Guinea. The species is remarkable for its long, whip-shaped retrolateral tibial apophysis (RTA) on the male palp. The structure apparently has an insertable function as the epigyne of the female contains a separate set of ducts starting from a central concavity that is unique in the genus. This duct system is apparently meant to receive the supple RTA. This type of structural arrangement has never previously been found in spiders.
Australia is predicted to have a high number of currently undescribed ostracod taxa. The genus Bennelongia De Deckker & McKenzie, 1981 (Crustacea, Ostracoda) occurs in Australia and New Zealand, and has recently shown potential for high speciosity, after the description of nine new species from Western Australia. Here, we focus on Bennelongia from eastern Australia, with the objectives of exploring likely habitats for undiscovered species, genetically characterising published morphological species and scanning classical species for cryptic diversity. Two traditional (morphological) species are confi rmed to be valid using molecular evidence (B. harpago De Deckker & McKenzie, 1981 and B. pinpi De Deckker, 1981), while three new species are described using both morphological and molecular evidence. Two of the new species belong to the B. barangaroo lineage (B. dedeckkeri sp. nov. and B. mckenziei sp. nov.), while the third is a member of the B. nimala lineage (B. regina sp. nov.). Another species was found to be genetically distinct, but is not formally described here owing to a lack of distinguishing morphological features from the existing species B. cuensis Martens et al., 2012. Trends in diversity and radiation of the genus are discussed, as well as implications these results have for the conservation of temporary pool microfauna and our understanding of Bennelongia’s evolutionary origin.
The present study describes five new free-living nematode species and provides three new species records of the family Comesomatidae (genera Cervonema Wieser, 1954, Dorylaimopsis Ditlevsen, 1918, Hopperia Vitiello, 1969, and Kenyanema Muthumbi et al., 1997) from the continental margin of New Zealand, Southwest Pacific. Dichotomous identification keys are provided for all known species of Dorylaimopsis and Hopperia. Cervonema shiae Chen & Vincx, 2000 is recorded for the first time outside the type locality (Beagle Channel, Chile). C. kaikouraensis sp. nov. is characterised by amphideal fovea with 5.5 turns situated at 1.7 head diameter from anterior end, jointed outer labial setae, equal in length to cephalic setae, sperm dimorphism, and 5-6 small pre-cloacal supplements. C. multispira sp. nov. is characterised by amphideal fovea with 8.0-8.5 turns situated at 2.6-4.0 head diameter from anterior end, cephalic setae 2-3 μm long, slightly shorter than outer labial setae, presence of six uninucleated cells in males (potentially pseudocoelomocytes or supplementary excretory cells), 5 small pre-cloacal supplements, and strongly cuticularised, arcuate spicules with capitulum. C. proberti sp. nov. is characterised by amphideal fovea with 5 turns and located at < 1 head diameter from anterior end, cephalic setae 1.6-2.0 times longer than outer labial setae, and 8 small pre-cloacal supplements. Dorylaimopsis nodderi sp. nov. is characterised by cuticle with lateral differentiation consisting of three longitudinal rows of larger dots in the pharyngeal and caudal regions, two rows of larger dots in middle region of body, and spicules with rounded ventral projection at one third of spicule length from distal end, giving appearance of a joint. Hopperia ancora sp. nov. is characterised by short conical cephalic setae, spicules with hook-like projection at distal end, gubernaculum with bent apophyses, and 11-13 pre-cloacal supplements. H. beaglense Chen & Vincx, 1998 is recorded from Kaikoura Canyon, the fi rst record of this species outside the type locality (Beagle Channel, Chile). Kenyanema monorchis Muthumbi et al., 1997 is also recorded for the first time outside the type locality (Indian Ocean).
This study deals with taxonomic problems of the semi-subterranean crangonyctid amphipod Synurella ambulans (F. Müller, 1846), well-known from various freshwater habitats in Europe. The taxonomy of the species S. ambulans and the generic diagnosis for the genus Synurella are revised. A new synonymy is proposed: Synurella ambulans (F. Müller, 1846) = Synurella ambulans meschtscherica Borutzky, 1929, syn. nov. The affinity with the related groups, distribution and ecology of the species are examined.
New genera and problematic species in African Lithosiinae (Lepidoptera, Arctiidae, Lymantriidae)
(2012)
This paper deals with some problematic species in the subfamily Lithosiinae. Two new monospecific genera are proposed: Parafrasura gen. nov. and Palaeugoa gen. nov. The former presents the following autapomorphies: tegumen strong and large; uncus long and slightly claviform; typical scaphium-gnathos complex. The latter presents as autapomorphies the disposition of the bands of the wings pattern, and the male genitalia shape. Asura naumanni Kühne, 2005 is considered incertae sedis within Lithosiinae and Asura phaeosticta Kiriakoff, 1958 is transferred to Euproctis Hübner, [1819] (Lymantriidae) (comb. nov.).
An account of the taxonomic position of the genus Bracon Fabricius, 1804 is presented. In his monograph Wesmael (1838: 7-58) made a survey of 48 nominal species of Bracon occurring in Belgium. Out of the 48 species thirty-seven were described by Wesmael himself as new species, eleven more species had previously been described by Fabricius (three species), Nees (seven species) and Spinola (one species). The Bracon material studied by Wesmael is deposited in the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels. Type (holo-, lecto-, paralectotype) designations are made for Wesmael’s species and neotype designations for Nees sensu Wesmael’s species. Redescriptions, comments on distributions and their taxonomic positions are presented. Palpibracon subgen. nov. is established (type species Bracon delibator Haliday, 1833) for fi ve Bracon species with long maxillary palpi in the Holarctic (four species) and Ethiopian Region (one species). The following fifteen Bracon species names proved to be junior synonyms (valid names in italics): B. dichromus Wesmael, 1838 = B. carpaticus Niezabitowski, 1910 syn. nov.; B. erraticus Wesmael, 1838 = B. bellicosus Papp, 1971 syn. nov., = B. exarator Marshall, 1885 syn. nov., = B. praetermissus Marshall, 1885 syn. nov., B. vectensis Marshall, 1885 syn. nov.; B. fuscicornis Wesmael, 1838 = B. levicarinatus Niezabitowski, 1910 syn. nov.; B. immutator Nees, 1834 = B. breviusculus Wesmael, 1838 syn. nov.; B. intercessor Nees, 1834 = B. laetus Wesmael, 1838 syn. nov.; B. larvicida Wesmael, 1838 = B. crassiusculus Szépligeti, 1901 syn. nov.; B. longicollis Wesmael, 1838 = B. subcylindricus Wesmael, 1838 syn. nov.; B. megapterus Wesmael, 1838 = B. biimpressus Telenga, 1936 syn. nov.; B. nigratus Wesmael, 1838 = B. orbicularis Niezabitowski, 1910 syn. nov.; B. osculator Nees, 1811 = B. coniferarum Fahringer, 1927 (Schmiedeknecht in litt.) syn. nov.; B. picticornis Wesmael, 1838 = B. vitripennis Ratzeburg, 1852 syn. nov.; B. titubatus Wesmael, 1838 = B. fuscipennis Wesmael, 1838 syn. nov. The species Bracon (Lucobracon) turolus Papp, 1984 is revalidated (suppressed under the name B. (Glabrobracon) nigriventris Wesmael, 1838 by Tobias & Belokobylskij 2000: 162). A historic discussion of the subgeneric division of the Bracon species is given.
During verifications of museum material for the Catalogue of the Palaearctic Coleoptera, the type specimen of Hylobius huguenini Reitter, 1891 conserved in the Hungarian National Museum was examined. The type specimen had been found by Gustav Huguenin in the Emmental region in Switzerland. The species was never found again and remained therefore mysterious. After the examination of the type specimen, it became clear that Hylobius huguenini belongs to the American genus Heilipodus Kuschel, 1955 (comb. nov.), and there it ranks as a good species next to Heilipodus goeldii sp. nov., described here, and H. polyspilus (Pascoe, 1889), both from Brazil. The type specimens of Heilipodus goeldii sp. nov. were found in the Emil August Göldi-collection in the Natural History Museum of the Burgergemeinde Bern.
26 samples were processed for a taxonomic study of ostracods from the Upper Permian (Changhsingian) - Lower Triassic (Griesbachian) interval of the Dajiang section, Guizhou Province, South China. 112 species belonging to 27 genera are recognized. Five new species are described: Acratia candyae sp. nov, Bairdia adelineae sp. nov., Bairdia? huberti sp. nov., Bairdia jeromei sp. nov., Orthobairdia jeanlouisi sp. nov. The unexpected survival faunas associated with microbial formations in the aftermath of the end-Permian extinction are documented for the first time. Ostracod biodiversity variations and palaeo-environmental modifications associated with microbial growth through the Permian-Triassic boundary (PTB) are discussed.
Sponges belonging to the genera Amphilectus Vosmaer, Esperiopsis Carter and Ulosa de Laubenfels of the family Esperiopsidae were collected during 1986 and 1988 expeditions of the Netherlands Centre for Biodiversity Naturalis (at that time the National Museum of Natural History at Leiden and the Zoological Museum of Amsterdam) in waters off the coasts of Mauritania and the Cape Verde Islands. Four new species, Amphilectus utriculus sp. nov., Amphilectus strepsichelifer sp. nov., Esperiopsis cimensis sp. nov., Ulosa capblancensis sp. nov., and two already known species, Amphilectus cf. fucorum (Esper) and Ulosa stuposa (Esper) are described and discussed.
A revision of the known African species of Psammoecus is given, including redescriptions and illustrations of diagnostic characters. Extensive material from the Musée royal de l’Afrique centrale (Tervuren) is studied. Two new species are described: Psammoecus leleupi sp. nov., and Ps. luchti sp. nov. Four specific names are synonymized: Psammoecus excellens Grouvelle, 1908 = Ps. trimaculatus Motschulsky, 1858; Ps. alluaudi Grouvelle, 1912 = Ps. trimaculatus Motschulsky, 1858; Ps. longulus Grouvelle, 1878 = Ps. longicornis Schaufuss, 1872; Ps. nitescens Grouvelle, 1914 = Ps. laetulus Grouvelle, 1914. A key to the African species is provided.
Three species of the genus Prorops Waterson, 1923 occur in Madagascar. Prorops nasuta Waterson, 1923 is recorded for the first time from Madagascar and two new species are described and illustrated: P. sparsa sp. nov. and P. impotens sp. nov., both based on the morphology of males and females. A brief discussion of the status of the genus, illustrations, and a key to Madagascan species of Prorops are provided.
Dolichoiulus typhlocanaria sp. nov., D. oromii sp. nov. and D. longunguis sp. nov. are described from caves and the mesovoid shallow stratum (MSS) on Gran Canaria. The genus Anagaiulus Enghoff, 1992 is synonymized under Dolichoiulus Verhoeff, 1900, resulting in Dolichoiulus blancatypa (Enghoff, 1992) comb nov.
Three new species of Eupetersia Blüthgen, 1928 (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) from the Oriental Region
(2012)
Three new species, Eupetersia (Nesoeupetersia) singaporensis sp. nov., collected in a mangrove swamp in Singapore, and Eupetersia (Nesoeupetersia) sabahensis sp. nov., collected in the mountains of Sabah, Borneo, and Eupetersia (Nesoeupetersia) yanegai sp. nov., collected in Thailand, are described. This genus is more diversified in the sub-Saharan region, including Madagascar. The only other Oriental species, E. nathani (Baker, 1974), was described from India and is diagnosed and re-illustrated here.
The canaliculatus species group of Stenus (Nestus) is redefined. Four new Palaearctic species of the group are described and illustrated: S. (N.) alopex sp. nov. from the Putorana Highland and Taymyr Peninsula, Russia; S. (N.) canalis sp. nov. from SE Siberia and the Russian Far East; S. (N.) canosus sp. nov. from the Narat Mt Ridge, Chinese Tien Shan; S. (N.) delitor sp. nov. from C & SE Siberia. New distributional data as well as brief analyses of old records for fourteen species described earlier are provided from both Palaearctic and Nearctic material. S. (N.) milleporus Casey, 1884 (= sectilifer Casey, 1884) is revalidated as a species propria. S. (N.) sphaerops Casey, 1884 is redescribed; its aedeagus is figured for the fi rst time; the aedeagus of S. (N.) caseyi Puthz, 1972 as well as aedeagi of eight previously described Palaearctic species are illustrated anew. A key for the identification of all the known Palaearctic species of the group is given. A morphology and ecology based analysis of the main evolutionary trends within the group is provided. A lectotype is designated for S. (N.) melanopus Marsham, 1802; its Siberian and NE European records are supposed to be erroneous; the monotypic melanopus species group is erected.
The type species of Axinodon ellipticus Verrill & Bush, 1898 and Kellia symmetros Jeffreys, 1876 are re-described. It is concluded that the two species are not conspecific and that K. symmetros cannot be placed in the genus Axinodon. The family affinity of Axinodon is not resolved, although it is probable that this genus belongs to the Thyasiridae. Kellia symmetros is the type species of Kelliola and is placed in the Montacutidae. Kelliola symmetros is most probably associated with the echinoid Aeropsis rostrata and is not the species previously recorded from North Atlantic Pourtalesia echinoids under the name of Axinodon symmetros. This commensal associated with the North Atlantic Pourtalesia is here described as new and placed in the new genus as Syssitomya pourtalesiana gen. nov. sp. nov., Syssitomya gen. nov. differs from all other genera in the Montacutidae by having laminar gill filaments modified for harbouring symbiotic bacteria and it is thus assumed to be chemosymbiotic. A montacutid associated with the hadal Pourtalesia heptneri is described as Ptilomyax hadalis gen. nov. sp. nov.
New species Campsicnemus flavissimus sp. nov., C. meridionalis sp. nov., and C. sanctaehelenae sp. nov. are described from St. Helena. A review and key to seven Campsicnemus species inhabiting Azores, Canary Is., Madeira and St. Helena are provided. A new status (as subspecies of C. armatus Zetterstedt, 1849) for C. caffer Curran, 1926 stat. nov. is proposed.
No Name, No Game
(2012)
In an interesting contribution Joppa et al. (2011) revisit some aspects of the taxonomic impediment (Evenhuis 2007; http://www.cbd.int/gti/) and come to the conclusion that, contrary to the generally accepted idea, both the rates of species description and the number of taxonomists have increased exponentially since the 1950’s. Joppa et al. (2011) also note a marked decline in the number of species described per taxonomist which they attribute to the difficulty of finding new species in an ever declining ‘missing species pool’. Therefore, their results might be interpreted that today’s taxonomic workforce is sufficient to describe the remaining (shallow) ‘pool of missing species’. In this contribution, we question if this is indeed the case and propose a solution for speeding up taxonomic descriptions.
We describe a tiny new frog species of the genus Platypelis (Anura: Microhylidae: Cophylinae) from Marojejy National Park, northeastern Madagascar. Platypelis ravus sp. nov. differs from all other known Platypelis and Cophyla species by its small size (17-19 mm snout-vent length) and a combination of other morphological and bioacoustic characters. The new species seems to be most closely related to P. milloti with which it shares the principal colour pattern, but exhibits a yellow rather than red posterior venter. Uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence in a 16S rRNA gene fragment to all other known species of the genus (except P. cowanii for which no genetic data is available) is greater than 6%. We suggest the inclusion of the new species in the IUCN threat category “Data Deficient”.
The genus Bennelongia De Deckker & McKenzie, 1981 is most likely endemic to Australia and New Zealand and, up to now, only two described species in this genus had been reported from Western Australia. Extensive sampling in Western Australia revealed a much higher specifi c diversity. Here, we describe nine new species in three lineages, within the genus Bennelongia: B. cygnus sp. nov. and B. frumenta sp. nov. in the B. cygnus lineage, B. gwelupensis sp. nov., B. coondinerensis sp. nov., B. cuensis sp. nov., B. lata sp. nov. and B. bidgelangensis sp. nov. in the B. australis lineage, and B. strellyensis sp. nov. and B. kimberleyensis sp. nov. (from the Pilbara and Kimberley regions respectively) in the B. pinpi-lineage. For six of the nine species, we were also able to construct molecular phylogenies and to test for cryptic diversity with two different methods based on the evolutionary genetic species concept, namely Birky’s 4 x rule and the GYMC model. These analyses support the specifi c nature of at least four of the fi ve new species in the B. australis lineage and of the two new species in the B. pinpi lineage. We also describe Bennelongiinae n.subfam. to accommodate the genus. With the nine new species described here, the genus Bennelongia now comprises 15 species, but several more await formal description.
A new common deep-sea species of Halirages Boeck, 1871 closely related to H.qvadridentatus G.O. Sars, 1877, H.cainae sp. nov., is described after specimens collected in the Norwegian Sea during the MAREANO 2009-111 cruise. Examination of the syntypes of H. elegans Norman, 1882 demonstrates that Norman's species is a junior synonym of H.qvadridentatus G.O. Sars, 1877 and that the species usually named H.elegans in literature was actually undescribed. The name H.stappersi sp. nov. is proposed for that species. A key to and a checklist of Halirages species is given.
Three new species of Helicopsyche Siebold, 1856 are described from Vietnam: Helicopsyche melina sp. nov., Helicopsyche meander sp. nov., and Helicopsyche lamnata sp. nov. All species were described from Melinh Station for Biodiversity in the Me Linh District of Vinh Phuc Province. The species were collected mainly in Malaise traps situated across a small stream surrounded by lowland forest. Some individuals were also collected on light in traps situated at the stream bank.
The fast-running flies (Diptera, Hybotidae, Tachydromiinae) of Singapore and adjacent regions
(2012)
This is the first comprehensive introduction to the flies of the subfamily Tachydromiinae (Hybotidae) of Singapore. The monograph summarizes all publications on the Tachydromiinae of Singapore and includes new data resulting from mass-trapping surveys made in Singapore during the last six years. A few samples from Malaysia (Johor province, Pulau Tioman and Langkawi) have been also included in this study. In Singapore the Tachydromiinae are the most diverse group of Empidoidea (except Dolichopodidae) and currently comprise 85 species belonging to the following nine genera: Platypalpus (1), Tachydromia (1), Chersodromia (6), Pontodromia (1), Drapetis (5), Elaphropeza (60), Crossopalpus (1), Nanodromia (3) and Stilpon (7). All species are diagnosed and illustrated. The following 28 species are described as new for science: Chersodromia bulohensis sp. nov. (Singapore), C. glandula sp. nov. (Singapore, Malaysia), C. malaysiana sp. nov. (Singapore, Malaysia), C. pasir sp. nov. (Malaysia), C. sylvicola sp. nov. (Singapore), C. tiomanensis sp. nov. (Malaysia), Crossopalpus temasek sp. nov. (Singapore), Drapetis bakau sp. nov. (Singapore, Malaysia), D. hutan sp. nov. (Singapore), D. laut sp. nov. (Singapore, Malaysia), D. mandai sp. nov. (Singapore), D. pantai sp. nov. (Singapore, Malaysia), Elaphropeza chanae sp. nov. (Singapore), E. collini sp. nov. (Singapore), E. gohae sp. nov. (Singapore), E. kranjiensis sp. nov. (Singapore), E. lowi sp. nov. (Singapore), E. semakau sp. nov. (Singapore), E. shufenae sp. nov. (Singapore), Nanodromia hutan sp. nov. (Singapore), N. spinulosa sp. nov. (Singapore), Platypalpus singaporensis sp. nov. (Singapore), Pontodromia pantai sp. nov. (Singapore), Stilpon arcuatum sp. nov. (Singapore), S. neesoonensis sp. nov. (Singapore), S. nigripennis sp. nov. (Singapore), S. singaporensis sp. nov. (Singapore), S. weilingae sp. nov. (Singapore). A redescription is given for Crossopalpus exul (Osten-Sacken, 1882) (Taiwan). Males of Elaphropeza feminata Shamshev & Grootaert, 2007 and E. modesta Shamshev & Grootaert, 2007 as well as females of Elaphropeza ubinensis Shamshev & Grootaert, 2007 and Nanodromia narmkroi Grootaert & Shamshev, 2003 are described for the first time. Keys to genera and species, which are generally applicable to the whole of Southeast Asia, are compiled. An analysis of the species ecological preferenda is presented.
NeoBiota, Volume 15 (2012)
(2012)
NeoBiota, Volume 14 (2012)
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NeoBiota, Volume 13 (2012)
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NeoBiota, Volume 12 (2012)
(2012)
Dinteria : Nr. 32, 2012
(2012)
We review the variegated mud-loving beetle fauna of the southeastern United States (Coleoptera: Heteroceridae), with an emphasis on Mississippi and Alabama. A key is presented to all species known to occur in the southeastern US, and includes several extra-limital species. Descriptions, illustrations and distribution maps are presented for each species. One new species, Tropicus nigrellus, is described and a lectotype is designated for Heterocerus schwarzi Horn. Our molecular data suggest that many previously recognized generic concepts are unnatural. As a result, the following generic synonymies are proposed: Culmus Pacheco 1964, Damfius Pacheco 1964, Efflagitatus Pacheco 1964, Erus Pacheco 1964, Filiolus Pacheco 1964, Gradus Pacheco 1964, Lanternarius Pacheco 1964, Lapsus Pacheco 1964, Neoheterocerus Pacheco 1964, Olmedous Pacheco 1964 and Peditatus Pacheco 1964 are synonyms of Heterocerus Fabricius; the genera Centariatus Pacheco 1964, Explorator Pacheco 1964, and Microaugyles Pacheco 1964 are synonyms of Augyles Schiödte. New combinations proposed and used in this paper include: Augyles auromicans (Kiesenwetter 1851, Heterocerus), Heterocerus parrotus (Pacheco 1964, Lanternarius), Heterocerus sandersoni (Pacheco 1964, Neoheterocerus) and Heterocerus selanderi (Pacheco 1964, Efflagitatus), Heterocerus texanus (Pacheco 1964, Peditatus). Other new combinations for North American species formed as a result of these generic reconfigurations, but not used in this paper, include: Heterocerus inciertus (Pacheco 1964, Damfius), Heterocerus longilobulus (Pacheco 1964, Neoheterocerus), Heterocerus sinuosus (Pacheco 1964, Lanternarius), Augyles canadensis (Fall 1920, Heterocerus), Augyles compactus (Fall 1937, Heterocerus), Augyles moleculus (Fall 1920, Heterocerus) and Augyles mundulus (Fall 1920, Heterocerus). New combinations for South American species suggested by molecular data, all originally described in the genus Efflagitatus, include: Heterocerus boliviensis (Pacheco 1964), Heterocerus freudei (Pacheco 1973), Heterocerus furmidus (Pacheco 1964), Heterocerus ingeniosus (Pacheco 1964), Heterocerus meridianus (Pacheco 1975), Heterocerus reticulatus (Pacheco 1964), Heterocerus solitarius (Pacheco 1973), Heterocerus splendidus (Pacheco 1964), Heterocerus tortuosus (Pacheco 1973), Heterocerus woodruffi (Pacheco 1975). No new combinations involving synonymy within the genera Culmus, Erus, Filiolus, Gradus, Lapsus, and Olmedous were proposed because all included species were originally described as Heterocerus. Introduction
The purpose of this paper is to reassess the taxonomy of Phanaeus MacLeay (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) to accommodate new taxa and changes in taxonomic opinion since the publication of Edmonds’ 1994 revision of the genus. The two subgenera and 13 species groups established by Edmonds (1994) remain unchanged. A revised set of keys with accompanying comments and illustrations separates 54 recognized valid species. Seven recently described valid species are incorporated into the revised classification: Phanaeus blackalleri Delgado-Castillo, 1991; P. bordoni Arnaud, 1996; P. changdiazi Kohlmann and Solís, 2001; P. lecourti Arnaud, 2000; P. martinezorum Arnaud, 2000; P. yecoraensis Edmonds, 2004; and P. zapotecus Edmonds, 2006. The new name Phanaeus sororibispinus Edmonds and Zidek replaces Phanaeus alvarengai Arnaud, 1984, a primary junior homonym of P. alvarengai Pereira and d’Andretta, 1955. Three subspecies recognized in 1994 are elevated to species rank, new status: Phanaeus texensis Edmonds, 1994; P. pilatei Harold, 1863; and P. guatemalensis Harold, 1871. Phanaeus obliquans Bates, 1887 is removed from synonymy and given new status as a valid species. Twelve new junior subjective synonyms (bold) are recognized: P. tridens balthasari Arnaud, 2002 (of P. tridens Castelnau, 1840); P. dzidoi Arnaud, 2000 (of P. palaeno Blanchard, 1843); P. genieri Arnaud, 2002 (of P. amethystinus Harold, 1863); P. prasinus jolyi Arnaud, 2001 (of P. prasinus Harold, 1868); P. kirbyi ledezmai Arnaud, 2002 (of P. kirbyi Vigors, 1825); P. achilles lydiae Arnaud, 2000 (of P. achilles Boheman, 1858); P. chalcomelas grossii Arnaud, 2001 (of P. chalcomelas [Perty, 1830]); P pyrois malyi Arnaud, 2002 (of P. pyrois Bates, 1887); P. tridens moroni Arnaud, 2001 (of P. tridens Castenau, 1840); P. lecourti peruanus Arnaud, 2000 (of P. lecourti Arnaud, 2000); P. endymion porioni Arnaud, 2001 (of P. endymion Harold, 1863); P. pseudofurcosus Balthasar, 1939 (of P. tridens Castelnau, 1840); and P. prasinus trinidadensis Arnaud, 2001 (of P. prasinus Harold, 1868). “Phanaeus viridicollis” Olsoufieff, 1924 (sensu Arnaud 2002) is an unavailable name here considered a color variant of P. pyrois Bates, 1887.
Five new species of Hydroptila (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae), H. murtlei sp. n., H. criokera sp. n, H. auriscuspa sp. n., H. santarosa sp. n., and H. ebroensis sp. n., from Florida are described and illustrated. We provide an annotated list of the 76 species known to occur in the state, including 10 species that represent new state records, one of which is also a new country record. New illustrations are presented for those species which were difficult to identify or exhibited new range extensions into Florida, namely: Hydroptila acadia Ross, H. ajax Ross, H. icona Mosely, H. latosa Ross, H. lloganae Blickle, H. maculata (Banks), H. novicola Blickle and Morse, H. wakulla Denning, Oxyethira arizona Ross, O. lumipollex Kelley and Harris, and O. simulatrix Flint.
A list of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) intercepted on imported succulent plants at the plant quarantine of Korea from 2006 to 2010 is provided. A total of 15 species belonging to four families are listed. Of the 15 species that were intercepted, some species are potential pests that could gain entry and establish in Korea through the importation of plant material. Current information on intercepted scale insects is required to alert inspectors at quarantine sites to look carefully at succulent plants to prevent the introduction of an exotic species.
Amorbia concavana (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is reported in Florida, USA. Male and female specimens are figured, and new host records are given. The species is compared to other Nearctic species of Amorbia Clemens. Florida specimens are more similar to Cuban than to Central American material with respect to male genitalia.
Systematic revision of the genus Orodaliscoides Schmidt, 1913 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae)
(2012)
The species belonging to the genus Orodaliscoides Schmidt (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae) are redescribed and figured. The following new combinations are proposed: Orodaliscoides fimbripes (Brown, 1928) and Orodaliscoides giulianii (Gordon, 1977).
Delphastus quinculus Gordon and Diomus seminulus (Mulsant) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) are reported for the first time feeding on eggs and first-instar nymphs of Crypticerya multicicatrices Kondo and Unruh (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae). Diagnosis and illustrations are provided for both species. Updated information on their biology, hosts and geographical distribution is also provided.
Beetles of the genus Paederus sensu stricto Fabricius, 1775 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) are often noticed because of their potency in inducing a dermal lesion, so-called linear dermatitis. This genus, which is placed in the tribe Paederini and subfamily Paederinae of Staphylinidae, currently comprises 490 species worldwide. Our study presents a short review of the former records of Paederus spp. in Iran plus some unpublished data. Field collections were done during March-October yearly (1997-2007) in northern and southern Iran and April-June from central, eastern, western and north-western Iran (2008-2009). The present study adds four species to the Iranian fauna of the genus Paederus, which are P. brevipennis Lacordaire, 1835, P. basalis Bernhauer, 1914, P. pubescens Cameron, 1914 and P. schoenherri Czwalina, 1899. Paederus brevipennis and P. schoenherri are the first members of the subgenus Harpopaederus Scheerpeltz, 1957, ever reported from Iran. Considering previous reports, museum-deposited materials and our findings, 14 species and subspecies of the genus Paederus, which are grouped in five subgenera, occur in Iran. These subgenera are Eopaederus Scheerpeltz, Harpopaederus Scheerpeltz, Heteropaederus Scheerpeltz, Paederus Fabricius and Poederomorphus des Cottes; however P. duplex spectabilis Bernhauer, 1913 is not yet attributed to any of the 13 so-far defined subgenera.
The multicicatrices fluted scale, Crypticerya multicicatrices Kondo and Unruh (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Monophlebidae) is reported from the islands of San Andres and Providencia, Colombia, as a recent invasive species. This scale insect is polyphagous, and attacks numerous plants of economic importance such as avocado, breadfruit, mango, papaya and tropical ornamental plants. A compiled list of 95 host plant species of C. multicicatrices is given. A diagnosis of the adult female of C. multicicatrices and a revised taxonomic key to the species of the tribe Iceryini (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae) known from South America is provided. The pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae), also is reported for the first time from the island of San Andres, where it is found commonly on Hibiscus spp. and Malvaviscus arboreus Cav. The need for the implementation of a classical biological control program in the archipelago in order to control invasive scale insect pests is discussed.
Aplagiognathus Thomson, 1861 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae, Macrotomini) and its two species, A. spinosus (Newman, 1840) and A. hybostoma Bates, 1879, are redescribed and figured. As the type of A. spinosus is apparently lost, a neotype for the species is designated herein as is a lectotype for A. hybostoma. Keys to the North and Central American genera of Macrotomini (excluding the West Indies) and to Aplagiognathus species are provided. Details on the numerous changes in the nomenclatural history of the genus are also chronicled.
This report contains the first inclusive phylogenetic analysis and taxonomic structure for the genera presently included within the scarabaeid tribe Dynastini. The study was based upon morphological, biogeographic and molecular data and yielded direct support for the recognition of three subtribes in the Dynastini: Dynastina MacLeay, New Status (Dynastes Kirby, Augosoma Burmeister, Megasoma Kirby, Golofa Hope), Xylotrupina Hope, New Status (Xylotrupes Hope, Allomyrina Arrow, Trypoxylus Minck, Xyloscaptes Prell) and Chalcosomina Rowland and Miller, New Subtribe (Chalcosoma Hope, Haploscapanes Arrow, Beckius Dechambre, Eupatorus Burmeister, Pachyoryctes Arrow). The results provide indirect but significant support for the origin of the tribe Dynastini to be of an age no later than the early Late Cretaceous. Molecular and morphological evidence suggests that Eupatorus as constituted in current taxonomic literature is not monophyletic, and taxonomic alternatives are discussed to address this deficiency. A plausible explanation is also provided for the perplexing use by F. W. Hope of the family-group names Xylotrupidae and Dynastidae.
Collection methods and/or habitats sampled influence how many and which species are captured during entomological surveys. Here we compare Coleoptera catches among three survey activities, each using a single collection method, at the same study sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. Activities included: short-term flight intercept trapping (FITs); sifting/Berlese funneling of leaf litter and extremely decayed downed coarse woody debris; and using emergence chambers containing coarse woody debris of various decay classes. In total, 2472 adult beetle specimens, representing 217 lowest identifiable taxa within 164 genera and 42 families, were collected during the FIT survey. Each survey activity yielded more than 2000 specimens, and a combined total of 413 species was collected. A combination of all surveys yielded the highest species richness when normalized for number of specimens indicating that variation of habitat and/or collection method significantly increases species richness. Of single surveys the FIT survey had the highest absolute species richness (217) and the highest richness when normalized for number of specimens. Species overlap among survey activities was low (Sorensen’s quotient of similarity was 0.20–0.27), which showed that each was about equally dissimilar from all others. Overlap of catch between FITs and emergence chambers was too low to justify substitution of emergence surveys with the FIT survey protocol used when attempting to collect saproxylic Coleoptera.
Coleoptera species composition and succession in downed woody debris habitats are poorly known in eastern North America. A photoeclector emergence chamber was used to concentrate Coleoptera that emerged from various decay classes of fine and coarse woody debris (FWD and CWD, respectively) collected in primary and secondary forest sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA. A total of 5673 adult beetle specimens, representing 305 lowest identifiable taxa within 227 genera and 51 families, was collected. One hundred fifteen species (38%) were represented by single individuals. Many more specimens and species were collected from CWD (4129 and 247, respectively) than from FWD (1544 and 162, respectively), but species richness accumulation curves were not significantly different. Many more specimens but an equal number of species were collected from primary forest (3347 and 207, respectively) than from secondary forest (2326 and 207, respectively). Species accumulation curves indicated higher richness in secondary forests. Based on a subset of 71 species represented by 10 or more specimens, 27 species were associated with fresh fine woody debris, 11 species with weathered fine woody debris, four with coarse woody debris decay class I, 14 with coarse woody debris decay class II, and eight with coarse woody debris decay class III–IV. Sixteen species were associated with secondary forests, whereas 28 species were associated with primary forests. Coarse woody debris decay class II taken in primary forests had highest absolute species richness with 156 species. In coarse woody debris species overlap decreased with increased difference in decay indicating faunal succession. Published works related to the study of the ecology of downed woody material are briefly summarized. Recommendations on developing a database of legacy trees for future researchers are given. Notes on the biology and photographs of the 71 species represented by 10 or more specimens are given to provide an atlas of eastern U.S. beetle species most commonly encountered in these habitats.
The community within extremely decayed downed coarse woody debris, here referred to as decay class V (CWD5), has never been systematically sampled. The presumption has been that rotten wood is eventually overrun by surrounding soil and litter inhabitants. Leaf litter and CWD5 were sampled for Coleoptera with a sifting/ Berlese technique at three primary and three secondary forest sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA, during fall 2006 and spring 2007. A total of 4261 adult beetle specimens, representing 216 lowest identifiable taxa within 159 genera and 28 families, were collected. Sixty-six species (31%) were represented by single individuals. Many more specimens (3471) and species (170) were collected from leaf litter than from CWD5 (790 and 111, respectively) but species accumulation curves showed that species richness was not significantly different between the two habitats. Eight species were significantly associated with CWD5, and 40 species were significantly associated with leaf litter. Species richness was significantly higher in secondary forest than primary forest, but more species were significantly associated with primary than secondary forest. Species richness was significantly higher in spring than fall. Notes on the biology and photographs of the 59 species represented by 10 or more specimens are given to provide an atlas of common eastern U.S. beetle species found in these habitats. Overall CWD5 is a distinct but overlooked habitat that may harbor numerous undescribed species or species considered rare.
The insect fauna within inflorescences of Heliconia bourgaeana Petersen (Zingiberales: Heliconiaceae) was evaluated in Parque Metlac, Fortín de las Flores, Veracruz, Mexico between May and October 1995. Floral bracts were present in May and some persisted to October, despite much destruction in August by a grackle, Quiscalus mexicanus (JF Gmelin) (Icteridae). Flowers were abundant in the bracts in May-June, after which their number declined as fruits matured. Insects that fed on the flowers were most abundant in May-June; several of them could be pollinators; the immature stages of most of these insects were absent from Heliconia Linnaeus. The floral bracts contained water enriched by decomposition of the flowers, and this provided nutrition for aquatic organisms. Syrphid larvae (Diptera) contributed the largest biomass among the aquatic insects, and their distribution among bracts was more uniform in time than that of other aquatic insects. Larvae of Culicidae and Psychodidae (Diptera) were more variable in density and were more abundant after decomposition of the flowers. The most abundant aquatic predators of culicid larvae were larvae of Toxorhynchites Theobald (Culicidae). The most abundant amphibious predators of dipterous larvae were adults of four species of Platydracus Thomson (Staphylinidae), one of them yet undescribed. To capture its prey, the Platydracus adult would immerse its head and thorax, with open mandibles, to snap at passing dipterous larvae.
A re-description and new records of Onthophagus viriditinctus Reitter, 1892 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Onthophagini), an uncommon species from Iran, are provided. The taxonomic position and some nomenclatural problems are discussed. The placement in the subgenus Exonthophagus Kabakov, 2006 is proposed. Images of the male, female, aedeagus and drawings of lamella copulatrix of Onthophagus viriditinctus and Onthophagus haroldi Ballion, 1871, the only other species included in the subgenus, are supplied. A key for distinguishing the two species is provided.
Two new species of Goera, G. zwicki and G. nozakii (Trichoptera, Goeridae), from the Philippines and one new species, G. meyi, from Vietnam are described and illustrated herein. In addition, type specimens of G. disparilis Banks, G. octospina Banks, G. tagalica Banks, and G. uniformis Banks are illustrated. All species of Goera known from both the Philippines and Vietnam are listed.
Surveys for adult Cylindera (s. str.) lunalonga (Schaupp) (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cicindelinae) were conducted between 2001 and 2011 at over 80 sites throughout the species’ historic range in the San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. Previously considered extirpated from the Valley, these surveys resulted in finding adults at 18 sites, several with large populations (>50 individuals). As suggested by historic records, our studies confirmed that the Valley populations of Cy. lunalonga occur in what were historically wetland sites, but are now lowland agricultural croplands. Adults were always associated with wet, muddy soil within and along the edges of irrigation ditches. A comparison of morphology, behavior, habitat, and conservation is made with the only known extant Sierra Nevada population.
Important missing specimen data are provided for the original description of Ozophora woodruffi Slater (2005: 245) (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae), along with additional comparative relationships. Because of the missing type information, according to ICZN rules (1999), the species became a nomen nudum. This paper now serves to validate the name, and authorship becomes Slater (2012).
Reticulitermes nelsonae, a new species of subterranean termite (Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae) is described from Sapelo Island, Georgia, United States of America, with specimens also found in North Carolina and Florida. The adult and soldier castes are described and illustrated to distinguish R. nelsonae from the four described Reticulitermes spp. known to occur in the southeastern United States.
The American species belonging to the genus Gonaphodiellus Schmidt (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae) are redescribed and figured. Two new genera are described: Gonaphodioides and Gonaphodiopsis. Fourteen new species are described: Gonaphodiellus arcanus, G. cerropuntanus, G. manantlanicus, G. martinpierai, G. omiltemicus, G. sacatepequezis, Gonaphodioides newtoni, G. ratcliffei, G. skelleyi, Gonaphodiopsis deloyai, G. hypogea, G. montesdeocai, G. pachecoi, G. teopiscaensis. The lectotype of Aphodius columbicus (Harold, 1880) is designated. The following new combinations are proposed: Gonaphodiellus nigrinus (Schmidt, 1916), Gonaphodioides acutecernans (Balthasar, 1960), Gonaphodioides chapini (Hinton, 1934), Gonaphodioides columbicus (Harold, 1880), Gonaphodioides sincerus (Petrovitz, 1973). Aphodius (Gonaphodiellus) xalapensis Galante, Stebnicka and Verdú, 2003 is placed as a junior synonym of Gonaphodiellus bimaculosus (Schmidt, 1909), new synonymy. Aphodius ataenioides Hinton, 1938 and Aphodius (Blackburneus) castanescens Petrovitz, 1973 are placed as junior synonyms of Gonaphodioides chapini (Hinton, 1934), new synonymies.
We conducted a morphological and mtDNA analysis of Cicindela decemnotata Say (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cicindelinae) populations from throughout its geographic range to determine the extent of variation within the species and to assess the validity of subspecific names. The morphological study included an analysis of traditional subspecific characters including elytral color and maculations. These results provided evidence for the recognition of four subspecies of C. decemnotata, three of which are new: 1. C. d. decemnotata Say usually with green to dark green dorsal coloration and complete elytral maculations; it is widely distributed from Canada south to northern New Mexico and west into southern Utah and Idaho; 2. C. d. meriwetheri n. ssp. is distinguished by its bright green to green dorsal coloration, elytral maculation characterized by a thin middle band, a lack of humeral maculations, and a small number of genal setae; it has a restricted distribution from eastern Washington north to south central British Columbia; 3. C. d. bonnevillensis n. ssp. is distinguished by a combination of green to green-purple dorsal coloration and its greatly reduced elytral maculations; it is restricted to the area of ancient Lake Bonneville in north central Utah; 4. C. d. montevolans n. ssp. is distinguished by a predominately red-purple dorsal color and greatly reduced elytral maculations; its distribution is restricted to high elevations of the Bear River Mountains of northeastern Utah and southeastern Idaho. We also analyzed the mitochondrial haplotypes for cob and cox1 genes for one to six individuals from each of the six populations. This molecular analysis indicated recently diverged but discrete groups within C. decemnotata that are compatible with the subspecies distinctions postulated from morphology. These shallow molecular divergences within C. decemnotata are best explained by rapid phylogenetic radiation in the recent geological past in the wake of postglacial recession.