Search

A new species in the rubbernose catfish genus Chaetostoma is described from the Aguaytia, Pisqui and Palcazu Rivers, which drain the Pampa de Sacramento Region in the Ucayali River drainage of central Peru. The new species is distinguished from congeners, except C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. leucomelas, C. microps, C. nudirostre, C. palmeri and C. thomsoni by having distinct, white, variably-shaped spots or vermiculations ½–2× nostril diameter on dark grey to black background on the head (vs. spots absent or black on light-coloured background). The new species is distinguished from C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. microps, C. nudirostre and C. thomsoni by having highly variable, distinct white spots, vermiculations or bands ½–10× nostril diameter on the body, from C. leucomelas by having dorsal and caudal fin indistinctly and variably-patterned with zero to four bands (vs. dorsal and caudal fin consistently having five or more uniform bands) and from C. palmeri by having two predorsal plates (vs. three), supraoccipital excrescence present (vs. absent) and pelvic-fin insertion slightly posterior to dorsal-fin insertion (vs. pelvic-fin insertion at middle of dorsal-fin base). Species delimitation analyses of the COI and Cytb genes further support the recognition of this new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new monotypic genus of the subfamily Theraphosinae Thorell, 1869 is described from the Western Cordillera of the Andes in northern Ecuador. The new genus is diagnosed by its distinctive male palpal morphology, including a semi-spatulate bulb caused by a well developed retrolateral inferior keel, presence of a cymbial apophysis, absence of a tibial apophysis, and a new character described in this contribution as a retrolateral tegular process. We comment on the similarities in male palpal bulb morphology with other neotropical genera and provide a preliminary phylogenic placement based on morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dendrophorbium occurs in South America with one species known from the Caribbean. Despite recent advances in taxonomy and phylogeny, there is a still lack of molecular studies on the delimitation and identification of the genus. Dendrophorbium is known to occupy a wide range of ecosystems mostly restricted to subtropical montane forests and montane scrub vegetation of the central Andes. In this study, a review of the species occurring in Peru is presented, in addition to material examined at different herbaria. The new combination D. ligulatum which is separated from D. yalusay, and the new species, D. arachnoideum is described from the department of Huánuco in central Peru. The species are assessed using the standards of the IUCN and additional notes are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new species of Centrolene from the Subandean Cordillera of Kutukú in southeastern Ecuador. The new species differs from all other glassfrogs by the combination of the following characters: presence of processes of vomers but without vomerine teeth; humeral spines in males; dorsum green with light green dots and without dark marks; dorsal skin with abundant tubercles; all visceral peritonea translucent (except for pericardium); and small body size (snout-vent length 21.5–21.9 mm in adult males). The new species is sister to Centrolene camposi from the Western Cordillera of the Andes of southwestern Ecuador, and together they form a clade with C. condor from the Subandean Cóndor Cordillera in southeastern Ecuador. Our time tree suggests that the new species originated at the end of the Pliocene. In addition, we present new information for C. zarza, expanding its geographic range across the southeastern Andes and the Kutukú and Cóndor cordilleras, amending its definition and diagnosis, and offering new information on its natural history and extinction risk. We also discuss the taxonomic status of Ecuadorian populations reported as C. huilensis and conclude that they are C. muelleri based on their close phylogenetic relationships and morphological similarity to samples of C. muelleri from Peru. Centrolene huilensis is a valid species and not closely related to C. muelleri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to our knowledge of the flora from high Andes of Bolivia by the description and characterization of five new, high-altitude species of Gentianaceae: Gentianella campaniflora, G. potosiana, G. pringlei, G. puberula, and G. samae. The new species are compared with similar species in their morphology, ecology, phenology and distribution. Line drawings and photographs serve to illustrate the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new species Oritrophium acerosum (Compositae, Astereae) is described from the páramo de Patococha at the border between the provinces of Azuay and Morona-Santiago, southern Ecuador. Among other features, the species is characterized by its reduced size, rosettes composed of 20–35 leaves much shorter than the scape, and linear, strongly revolute leaves with a glabrous adaxial surface, and pseudopetioles longer than the lamina. A taxonomic discussion of similar species is provided, as well as detailed pictures of living plants and a dichotomous key to the species of the genus in Ecuador. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent field expeditions to the Andes and herbarium research resulted in the discovery of a new species of Drymonia (Gesneriaceae). Drymonia tomentosa J.L.Clark & Clavijo is described from the western Andean slopes of northern Ecuador and southern Colombia. The new species is differentiated from other congeners by the presence of a tomentose indumentum on the stems, stout shoots, broadly oblong leaves, and calyx lobes with broadly rounded apices. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Least Concern (LC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heliconia (Heliconiaceae) is a genus of giant rhizomatous herbs that have bright and striking bract inflorescences. The family consists of one genus and about 194 species that occur naturally in the tropical regions of the world, concentrating their greatest diversity and endemism in the Andean foothills and the Pacific region of Colombia, with approximately 120 species of the total registered for the world. Within the species of this genus there is high morphological variation, which sometimes makes clear identification of Heliconia specimens difficult. So is the case of Heliconia platystachys Baker, which contains two morphologically distinct groups of plants distinguished by the size and color of the bracts, the floral bracts, the mucilage that covers the flowers, and the shape of the staminodium. These structures of floral biology such as staminodium are of great taxonomic value in the study of the species within the genus Heliconia. The main goal of this work was to study Heliconia populations, which are found on the western slope of the Central Cordillera of Colombia at elevations between 970 and 1200 m, for which the morphoanatomical and palynological attributes were analyzed. We want to explore in this work whether the variation exhibited by these populations and their distribution allows us to postulate the occurrence of a new species with sufficient evidence for its separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Leucheria peteroana sp. nov., endemic to a restricted area of the Andes of Central Chile, is here described. Using newly sequenced nDNA and cpDNA data, the phylogenetic affinities of Leucheria and closely related taxa within Nassauvieae are revisited. This new species shows a unique set of characters that clearly distinguish it from other species of Leucheria. Phylogenetic analyses place this perennial species close to annual species found in the pre-Andean environments of Central Chile. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its habitat, conservation status, and photographs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The diversity of Rubus in South America is much understudied and a taxonomic framework needs to be established as a basis for future revisionary and phylogenetic work. Our review identified 110 names based on South American specimens which were published since 1767. Each name was then classified according to its botanical description and type material. Additionally, where necessary, we suggest appropriate lecto-, neo-, or epitypes. A comprehensive list of synonyms is provided and representative herbarium specimens for each country are cited to tentatively document geographical range. In total, we accept 46 species of Rubus recorded across South America, propose 19 new synonyms, restore R. organensis, previously a synonym of R. brasiliensis, provide a replacement name for the latter, and include new country records of R. azuayensis, R. laegaardii and R. rusbyi. This checklist serves as an essential starting point for future monographic and evolutionary studies on Rubus in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Ctenomys (Rodentia: Hystricomorpha) includes an impressive diversity of species, all of which have evolved in southern South America. The number of recognized species is currently approaching 70. During the last few decades, taxonomic revisions and new field collections have resulted in both the description of new species and the synonymization of others, suggesting that much of the alpha taxonomy of Ctenomys remains unresolved, particularly when considering the vast areas of distribution that are still unsampled. Both phylogeographic patterns and the fossil record suggest that the Andean Cordillera has played a critical role in the diversification of the genus. Building upon recent, intensive field sampling in the Andean and pre-Andean regions of southern Mendoza Province, I integrated molecular and morphological data to evaluate the taxonomic status of populations of Ctenomys in this region. These analyses revealed a taxonomically-diverse Ctenomys assemblage within which here I provide the description for a new species. Available data indicate that this new species is endemic to southern portions of Mendoza Province, a geographic region that represents the confluence of 3 lineages ' magellanicus ,' ' maulinus ,' and ' mendocinus ,' and that it is thus an area of particular importance for the conservation of these rodents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptic biodiversity continues to be revealed worldwide, even in apparently well-known groups such as carnivorans. The Neotropical Otter (Lontra longicaudis) presents shape variation in its nose pad, a character that has been used to differentiate species in this group. Based on this, 3 subspecies are recognized: L. l. annectens (Mexico, Central America, and South America west of the Andes), L. l. enudris (Amazon and Orinoco basins), and L. l. longicaudis (Paraná basin and remaining distribution). Previous studies partially supported their distinctness based on mitochondrial DNA markers, morphometrics, and ecological niche modeling. We analyzed genome-wide nuclear markers (ultraconserved elements) of 29 L. longicaudis individuals across the species' range to assess its population structure. Phylogenomic analysis recovered L. longicaudis as paraphyletic with robust support, with 1 clade comprising samples from Mexico and Colombia (trans-Andean populations) and another encompassing the remaining samples (cis-Andean populations), which grouped with 2 other South American species, L. felina and L. provocax. Principal component and admixture analyses strongly differentiated the 2 main L. longicaudis groups, and distinguished the Amazonian individuals from the remaining cis-Andean samples. Our results support the recognition of trans-Andean populations of L. longicaudis as a distinct otter species, which should be recognized as Lontra annectens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberidopsidales comprises two families: monotypic Aextoxicaceae (Aextoxicon punctatum in Chile and Argentina) and Berberidopsidaceae. The latter includes Australian monotypic Streptothamnus (S. moorei) and Berberidopsis (B. beckleri in Australia and B. corallina in Chile). A new Berberidopsis species from the Central Chilean Andes is here described. Phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear and chloroplast data clarified the relationships within Berberidopsidales. The new species, Berberidopsis granitica, is sister to the Chilean endemic B. corallina, and this clade is sister to the Australian B. beckleri. The dated molecular phylogeny places the split between the South American B. corallina and B. granitica into the late Miocene/early Pleistocene and the split between South American and Australian Berberidopsis to the late Miocene and Pliocene, suggesting transoceanic dispersal rather than vicariance. Climatic niche analyses show two distinct and non‐overlapping climatic niches for the Australian and southern South American species. Berberidopsis granitica and B. corallina also differ clearly in their habitat and morphology, in addition to their climatic niche. Berberidopsis granitica has a very restricted distribution area and grows in the Andes under montane climatic conditions, unique within Berberidopsidales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Andean swamp rat Neotomys ebriosus is a sigmodontine rodent restricted to the Central Andes of South America. A distribution map of the species in Peru have been previously drawn based on few of the localities where the species has been captured and collected. I update the distribution of the species in Peru based on new records from three different areas surveyed by the author, specimens at Museum collections in the United States and France from VertNet webpage, localities from the collection at the Natural History Museum of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, and localities from the collection at the Natural History Museum of the Universidad Nacional San Agustín. The northern limit of the species distribution is increased based on new localities with collected individuals. Habitat used by N. ebriosus is mainly high Andean bogs; most individuals caught adjacent to the borders of Andean bogs and along streams near the bogs. Collected individuals leave unclear subspecies division and identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carex section Junciformes is one of the most diverse groups of the genus in South America, consisting of approximately 30 species. Here we describe a new species, Carex recondita, belonging to this section. We studied its placement within a molecular phylogeny of the group and found it to constitute an independent lineage. The new species is morphologically very close to C. austroamericana, from southern Patagonia, despite being phylogenetically divergent to the rest of Patagonian species of sect. Junciformes. So far, this species is known only from a few specimens recently collected in its type locality, despite growing in a well-collected area in the Andes of Metropolitana Region of Santiago, the most populated administrative region of Chile. We provide a detailed morphological description, comments on its relationship with other Southern Cone species of sect. Junciformes and relevant ecological notes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orthotrichum camanchacanum is presented as a newly described species from Chile. The species is primarily distinguished by its emergent capsule with cryptoporous stomata, a double peristome, linear-lanceolate stem leaves with a long hyaline aristae in apex, conspicuously differentiated perichaetial leaves, and a densely hairy vaginula. The species was discovered in the mountain massif of the Andes in the Coquimbo region, notable for its unique climatic conditions. Molecular data and a brief discussion comparing the newly described species with the most closely related taxa are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new species of Cymbiapophysa Gabriel & Sherwood, 2020 from north-western Ecuador are described based on unique combinations of male palpal bulb and female spermathecae morphology: C. ashily sp. nov., C. matildeae sp. nov., C. otongachi sp. nov., and C. yumbos sp. nov. An updated diagnosis, key to species, and comparative plate of the male palpal bulb of previously known species, with relabelling of some keels as necessary, and evidence of a subapical keel in Cymbiapophysa species, are presented. Additionally, we provide further commentaries about cymbial morphology and male palpal bulb structures, and two possible hypotheses related to the origin of accessory keels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harlequin toads (Bufonidae, Atelopus) from the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia are poorly understood, with several species being known only from few specimens and a single locality. Material from the Yotoco area, Departamento Valle del Cauca, has been addressed in previous studies and was allocated ambiguously to different available names. We here describe the Yotoco Atelopus as a species new to science as it is readily distinguished from all congenerics by a combination of morphological characters (i.e., snout profile, cranial crests, skin texture, pattern and coloration). In addition, we comment on the taxonomy of three Atelopus populations from the Cordillera Occidental and the Cordillera Central of Colombia; two of them we tentatively assign to A. nicefori and A. sonsonensis, respectively. The third one remains of unclear status. The need for further examination of the harlequin toads from the Andes of Colombia in an integrative taxonomic framework is emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Argyrotaenia socoromaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Archipini) from the arid Andes of northern Chile is described and illustrated. Adults are sexually dimorphic, with differences in wing size, shape and pattern. The larvae feed on Stevia philippiana Hieron. (Asteraceae) and Lupinus oreophilus Phil. (Fabaceae). Genetic distance between DNA barcodes of male and female adults reared from larvae collected on the two hosts was 0-0.2% (K2P). The discovery of A. socoromaensis sp. nov. represents the first record of the genus Argyrotaenia Stephens, 1852 and the tribe Archipini for the Chilean fauna of Tortricidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe one new species and eight new subspecies of high elevation Actinote Hübner, [1819] (Nymphalidae, Heliconiinae, Acraeini) from Colombia, Ecuador and Peru: Actinote pyrrhosticta Lamas, Willmott & Hall, n. sp., Actinote pyrrhosticta quintecocha Lamas & Willmott, n. ssp., Actinote pyrrhosticta apurimac Lamas & Willmott, n. ssp., Actinote pyrrhosticta alfamayo Lamas & Willmott, n. ssp., Actinote eresia albesia Lamas & Willmott, n. ssp., Actinote eresia canyaris Pyrcz & Lamas, n. ssp., Actinote hilaris arcoiris Willmott & Hall, n. ssp., Actinote hilaris sourakovi Willmott & Lamas, n. ssp., and Actinote trinacria alegria Boyer & Willmott, n. ssp. We treat Actinote binghamae Dyar, 1913 as a new synonym of Actinote eresia eresina (Hoffer, 1874) n. syn., and treat Altinote santamarta Winhard, 2017 as a subspecies, Actinote trinacria santamarta rev. stat. We illustrate adult specimens of all described taxa of A. pyrrhosticta n. sp., A. eresia (C. Felder & R. Felder, 1862) and A. hilaris Jordan, 1910, and representatives of A. trinacria (C. Felder & R. Felder, 1862). We also provide illustrations of male and female genitalia for select taxa, distribution maps, and a revised, annotated synonymic list for all four species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, based on the discovery and examination of male specimens of Liomma laeve Roewer, 1959, proposes the reclassification of the monotypic genus Liomma Roewer, 1959. Currently placed in Grassatores incertae sedis, we hereby transfer it to the Nomoclastidae family. In this work, we present a reevaluation of the genus and a comprehensive redescription of its type species. Additionally, we introduce a novel anatomical feature, seemingly exclusive to Nomoclastidae, which we term 'metatarsal carinate setae (MtCS)'. MtCS comprises specialised striate setae organised in a comb-like structure located on the prolateral distal part of metatarsus I in males. The presence of MtCS has been observed not only in Liomma laeve but also in several as-yet-undescribed species within the Nomoclastidae family. These observations are part of a broader, ongoing project aimed at comprehensively understanding and classifying this taxonomic group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Burmeistera consists mostly of cloud forest species occurring from Guatemala to Peru. Molecular work on this group has revealed previously established subgeneric groupings to be non-monophyletic, while also identifying several monophyletic groups with recognizable synapomorphies. One such monophyletic group is a clade of species with recurved corolla lobes which contains three species: B. crispiloba, B. sodiroana, and B. succulenta. As many as nine names have been recognized previously for these species, though the most recent taxonomic treatments recognize only these three. Additional collections of these species made in the last forty years have uncovered phenotypic variation showing that characters traditionally used to differentiate them no longer do so clearly and suggest the possibility of introgression between them. Here, we report morphometric analyses of herbarium specimens of the recurved corolla clade, using both hierarchical and normal mixture model-based clustering methods to test the current species hypotheses. Our results support the recognition of the three known species plus the newly described Burmeistera kitrinaima sp. nov. We provide complete descriptions of all four species, and include photographs, distributions maps, taxonomic discussion, and an identification key. El género Burmeistera consiste principalmente de especies de bosques de neblina desde Guatemala hasta Perú. Trabajo molecular en este grupo ha revelado que los grupos subgenéricos previamente establecidos no son monofiléticos, además ha identificado varios grupos monofiléticos con sinapomorfías reconocibles. Uno de estos grupos monofiléticos es un clado de especies con lóbulos de corola recurvados que contiene tres especies: B. crispiloba, B. sodiroana y B. succulenta. Hasta nueve nombres se han reconocido previamente para estas especies, aunque los tratamientos taxonómicos más recientes reconocen únicamente estas tres. Colecciones adicionales de estas especies realizadas en los últimos cuarenta años han descubierto variación fenotípica demonstrando que los caracteres tradicionalmente utilizados para distinguir entre especies ya no lo hacen de manera clara, y sugieren la posibilidad de introgresión entre ellas. Aquí, reportamos análisis morfométricos de especímenes de herbario del clado de corola recurvada, utilizando los métodos de agrupamiento jerárquico y de modelos de mezcla normal para evaluarlas hipótesis actuales de especies. Nuestros resultados respaldan el reconocimiento de las tres especies conocidas, además de una nueva especie recién descrita Burmeistera kitrinaima sp. nov. Describimos las cuatro especies en detalle e incluimos fotografías, ilustraciones, mapas de distribución, discusión taxonómica y una clave de identificación. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Columnea are described from the Andes of Ecuador and Peru. Columnea machupicchuensis J.L.Clark & J.F.Sm. is a subwoody subshrub with tubular purple flowers and is endemic to the forests surrounding the Machu Picchu Inca citadel in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru. Columnea flavostriata J.L.Clark is a subwoody subshrub with tubular yellow flowers with purple striations from southern Ecuador. A broad circumscription was initially published that included Columnea lophophora Mansf. and the two newly described species here. The updated circumscription of three species from what was previously considered one species is based on the first collection of Columnea lophophora since the early 20th century, helping to resolve the circumscription and taxonomic boundaries of collections previously considered conspecific. Morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nrDNA ITS are presented that strongly support the circumscription of these three taxa as separate species. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Endangered (EN) for Columnea flavostriata, Vulnerable (VU) for Columnea machupicchuensis, and Vulnerable (VU) for Columnea lophophora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two recent fieldwork expeditions to Peru and Ecuador resulted in the finding of two Carex species (C. hypsipedos and C. sanctae-marthae) previously known from a single collection each, and of uncertain morphological and systematic affinities. We performed phylogenetic analyses using barcode molecular markers and a detailed morphological comparison among the new specimens and the original collections. A BLAST search was used to obtain the preliminary infrageneric affinities of problematic samples. Phylogenetic results confirmed the adscription of these species to two sectional Carex groups: Carex sect. Racemosae (subg. Carex) for C. hypsipedos and Carex sect. Junciformes (subg. Psyllophorae) for C. sanctae-marthae. Morphological revision revealed unique traits in C. hypsipedos, especially geocarpy, here strikingly reported for the first time for the genus Carex. On the other hand, the careful comparison of the new materials of C. sanctae-marthae revealed unequivocal affinities with the type, confirming its identity as this species. Our work illustrated that for the understanding of poorly known groups, such as these two Neotropical Carex, integrative approaches combining basic biosystematics tools are still very necessary: field and herbaria surveys and DNA barcode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel species of Psalmopoeus Pocock, 1895 are described from the north-western and central-western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental of the Andes mountain range in Ecuador. The new species are easily differentiated from other congeners of Psalmopoeus by spermathecae and male palpal bulb morphology and a comparatively distant distribution to the type localities of the geographically nearest known congeners. The diagnosis of P. ecclesiasticus Pocock, 1093 is revised and updated, considering the novel species and observations on spermatheca of this species. Likewise, an evaluation is provided for the new species in terms of conservation due to the various threats impacting ecosystems and ecosystem services of their type localities. Finally, the importance of theraphosid spiders in Ecuador and South America and their possible conservation requirements are discussed and assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protium inversum (Burseraceae), is described and illustrated, adding to the number of recently revealed montane Andean species in this genus. Its obovoid fruits are unique in the genus, and it is one of a very few congeners with a red pseudaril. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on fieldwork and examination of herbarium specimens, a new Andean species, Merostachys nigricans, from the humid montane forest of Bolivia is described and illustrated. We provide notes about distribution, habitat, ecology, conservation status, phenology, common names, uses, and taxonomic affinities with M. ramosa and M. yungasensis. A distribution map is also included. The presence of an unusually black internal surface of basal internodes distinguishes it from all other species in the genus and gives rise to its name. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Zoniferella includes six taxa of land snails from Colombia and Ecuador, for which little has been published beyond their original descriptions. In this paper, we present new records of Zoniferella vespera (Jousseaume, 1887), expanding its range across northwestern Ecuador. We provide the first description of the colouration in life for Zoniferellasnails. We comment on the taxonomy of some species of Zoniferella, recognising the synonymy of Z. riveti (Germain, 1907) with Z. vespera but calling for further integrative taxonomic analyses before recognising further synonyms between species of the genus.

The species Senecio contumazensis sp. nov. from the southern department of Cajamarca, in northwestern Peru, is described herein. It shows morphological affinities with species of the Senecio series Otopteri, especially with the Bolivian Senecio sepium. In addition, the putative endemic Senecio piurensis from northern Peru is synonymized with S. pericaulis, a species previously described from southern Ecuador. Discussions on the morphology of these species, illustrations, and a distribution map are provided.

Genetic divergence among isolated populations is not always reflected in phenotypic differentiation. We investigated the genetic and phenotypic differentiation in Diglossa cyanea (Thraupidae; Masked Flowerpiercer), a widely distributed species in the tropical Andes. We found strong evidence for 2 main lineages separated by the Marañón River valley in the Northern Peruvian Low (NPL). These 2 lineages show a deep sequence divergence in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA; ~6.7% uncorrected p-distance, n = 122), spectral frequency and song structure (with exclusive final whistles in southern populations, n = 88), and wing length (the northern populations are smaller, n = 364). The 2 divergent D. cyanea mitochondrial lineages were not sister to each other, suggesting a possible paraphyly with respect to D. caerulescens (Bluish Flowerpiercer) that remains to be tested with nuclear genomic data. No genetic variation, size difference, or song structure was observed within the extensive range of the southern group (from the NPL to central Bolivia) or within all sampled northern populations (from the NPL to Venezuela). These vocal differences appear to have consequences for song discrimination, and species recognition, according to a previously published playback experiment study. We propose that the southern taxon be elevated to species rank as D. melanopis, a monotypic species (with the proposed name Whistling Masked-Flowerpiercer). In turn, we provide a redefinition of D. cyanea (Warbling Masked-Flowerpiercer), which is now restricted to the northern half of the tropical Andes as a polytypic species with 3 subspecies (tovarensis, obscura, and cyanea). Based on our results, the subspecies dispar should be treated as a junior synonym of cyanea. Our study highlights the need to continue amassing complementary data sets from field observations, experiments, and collection-based assessments to better characterize the evolutionary history, biogeography, bioacoustics, and taxonomy of Neotropical montane birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent field research on the eastern slopes of the Andes resulted in the discovery of a new species of Bomarea from the Cerro Candelaria Reserve in the Tungurahua province of Ecuador. Bomarea pastazensis is the second smallest species in the genus and differs from the smallest by the presence of glutinous trichomes on the ovary, glabrous sepals, and greenish-yellow petals with purple spots. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Vulnerable (VU). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Molossops includes two monotypic species of insectivore bats distributed in South America: Molossops neglectus and Molossops temminckii. Both can be differentiated, based on sizes, M. temminckii being smaller (forearm less than 33 mm). Despite being monotypic, at least two additional subspecies have been described for M. temminckii, of which M. temminckii griseiventer from the inter-Andean Valley of the Magdalena River in Colombia might represent a valid taxon. To test the taxonomic status of M. t. griseiventer, we reviewed specimens of M. temminckii from cis- and trans-Andean localities in Colombia. We used Cytochrome-b and Cytochrome Oxidase I comparisons to test the phylogenetic position of cis- and trans-Andean samples and compared qualitative morphology, morphometric and bioacoustics. Our results show that M. t. griseiventer is differentiated from cis-Andean specimens, providing further evidence of its validity at the species level. Furthermore, M. temminckii (sensu stricto) is also distributed in Colombia, but both M. griseiventer and M. temminckii are allopatric, with the Andes acting as a barrier. The specific identity of the specimens from the Caribbean Region of Colombia needs a new evaluation, but our results clearly show that the diversity of Molossops is underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talides basistrigata Eaton, 1932, originally described from Peru, was subsequently transferred to the genus Hylephila Billberg, 1820 by Evans (1955) and considered a subspecies of H. phyleus (Drury, 1773), arguing that basistrigata inhabits drier environments than phyleus. Currently, the taxonomic status proposed by Evans is retained. The aim of this study is to reinstate the taxonomic status of valid species for basistrigata based on an integrative analysis considering morphological, ecological, and genetic aspects. Genitalic structures were examined in specimens of both basistrigata and phyleus, mitochondrial COI gene sequences were obtained for both species, and field data were collected to understand their oviposition behaviour in the vicinity of Arequipa city, southwestern Peru. As a result of the morphological examination, notable differences were found between the male genitalia structures of both species, primarily in the caudal processes of the valvae, the arrangement of the pectines, and the shape of the uncus. Regarding the genetic analysis, a genetic distance of greater than 3% was observed between the two species, thus supporting the taxonomic status of species for basistrigata. Additionally, from an ecological perspective, it was recorded that both species employ distinct oviposition mechanisms and different host plants, exhibiting spatial sympatry and temporal synchrony on the western slope of the Andes in Peru. Male and female adults of basistrigata are redescribed, and a lectotype is designated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Austral Yungas cloud forest (Southern Bolivia and NW Argentina) is known for its high diversity, steep landscape and low accessibility. Anacroneuria Klapálek (Plecoptera: Perlidae) species in this ecoregion have been seldom studied. We aim to know its species diversity (based on adult characters) and explore larval characters important for their recognition. We have reared dozens of larvae from different localities and collected adults with light traps. Reared adults and associated larval exuviae were studied, photographed and drawn. We have identified 13 species (based on male aedeagus) and successfully associated larval and adult stages for seven species. In the present paper we describe seven new species: Anacroneuria tafi sp. nov., A. flavinigra sp. nov., A. saican sp. nov., A. triplex sp. nov., A. calilegua sp. nov., A. lutea sp. nov., and A. tupacamaru sp. nov. For six species previously described we present new data and stage descriptions: A. arrazayalensis Orce, A. handlirschi Klapálek, A. reedi (Navás), A. tucuman Stark, A. saltensis Froehlich, and A. chimborazo Stark. Genetic divergence for some of these species was studied using the barcode region of the mitochondrial gene COI. A key to the male adults of all the species of Anacroneuria from Northwestern Argentina is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ongoing monographic studies of Monopyle (Gesneriaceae) and recent exploratory research expeditions to the western Andes of southern Colombia and northern Ecuador resulted in the discovery of two new species. Monopyle chocoensis Keene & J.L.Clark and Monopyle connata J.L.Clark & Keene are endemic to the premontane wet forests of the western Andes of Ecuador and Colombia. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned of Vulnerable (VU) for Monopyle chocoensis and Critically Endangered (CR) for M. connata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new species of Cymbiapophysa Gabriel & Sherwood, 2020 are described from south, central, and north-western Ecuador, showing the wide range of distribution that this genus has in Ecuador and its biogeographical provinces. These three new species are easily differentiated from other congeners based on keel morphology of the male palpal bulb. Supplementary information about the locality of C. magna Sherwood, Gabriel, Brescovit & Lucas, 2021 is provided, alongside additional data on morphology and some commentaries about the general distribution and biogeography of Cymbiapophysa. Additionally, a taxonomic key for males of Cymbiapophysa species is presented, based on the palpal bulb morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Morelloid clade, also known as the black nightshades or "Maurella" (Morella), is one of the 10 major clades within the mega-diverse genus Solanum L. The clade is most diverse in the central to southern Andes, but species occur around the tropics and subtropics, some extending well into the temperate zone. Plants of the group vary from herbs to short-lived perennials to perennial shrubs that are distinctly woody at the base, they have small mostly white or purplish white flowers and small juicy berries. Due to the complex morphological variation and weedy nature of these plants, coupled with the large number of published synonyms (especially for European taxa), our understanding of species limits and diversity in the Morelloid clade has lagged behind that of other clades in Solanum. Here we provide the last in a three-part series of monographic treatments of the morelloid solanums (see PhytoKeys Vols. 106, 125), treating the 62 species occurring in South America. This region is by far the most diverse in the clade, both in terms of species number and morphological diversity. We provide complete synonymy, nomenclatural details, including lecto- and neotypifications where needed, common names and uses, morphological descriptions, illustrations to aid identification both in herbaria and in the field, and distribution maps for all native, non-cultivated species. We include a key to all species, a synoptic character list for the species treated here and links to synoptic online keys for all species of the Morelloid clade. Preliminary conservation assessments following IUCN guidelines are also provided for all native species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hantaviridae currently encompasses seven genera and 53 species. Multiple hantaviruses such as Hantaan virus, Seoul virus, Dobrava-Belgrade virus, Puumala virus, Andes virus, and Sin Nombre virus are highly pathogenic to humans. They cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome or hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HCPS/HPS) in many countries. Some hantaviruses infect wild or domestic animals without causing severe symptoms. Rodents, shrews, and bats are reservoirs of various mammalian hantaviruses. Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in the study of hantaviruses including genomics, taxonomy, evolution, replication, transmission, pathogenicity, control, and patient treatment. Additionally, new hantaviruses infecting bats, rodents, shrews, amphibians, and fish have been identified. This review compiles these advancements to aid researchers and the public in better recognizing this zoonotic virus family with global public health significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pike cichlids form the largest clade of Neotropical cichlids, with over 100 species presently classified in two genera: Crenicichla (93 species widespread in rivers of South America east of the Andes) and Teleocichla (nine rheophilic Amazonian species). Here, we combined a new dataset of 216 morphological characters with molecular data compiled from published sources, comprising 74 terminal taxa of pike cichlids (68 out of 102 valid species, plus four putative new species), and performed phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and parsimony. Based on a synthesis of our results and previous phylogenies, we propose a new classification in which the clade including all pike cichlids is elevated to the rank of subtribe (Crenicichlina) and the genus Crenicichla is redefined, including three subgenera: Crenicichla (monotypic with the type species), Batrachops (resurected as subgenus), and Lacustria (new subgenus). Teleocichla is maintained as a valid genus and four new genera are proposed: Wallaciia, Saxatilia, Hemeraia , and Lugubria. Our results on character mapping support the hypothesis that resource partitioning in environments with fast-flowing water and rocky beds might have played a role in the origin or maintenance of the great diversity of pike cichlids, resulting in parallel evolution of similar ecomorphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species is described from the Huancabamba Pass, a relict montane forest in northwest Peru, near the southwestern border of Ecuador. Pachycaulos huancabambae J.L.Clark & Moonlight is a terrestrial or lithophytic herb with scandent stems that grows in dense mats of bryophytes. This is the second species of Pachycaulos and renders that taxon as non-monotypic. We discuss several other genera of Gesneriaceae that are also no longer monotypic because of recent exploratory research in tropical forests and increased taxon sampling from ongoing phylogenetic studies. A molecular phylogenetic analysis based on nrDNA ITS is presented that strongly supports the monophyly and sister-group relationship of P. huancabambae and P. nummularia. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Critically Endangered (CR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Andecladodes Bocáková, Campello-Goncalves & Silveira, 2022 from Peru is described and illustrated: Andecladodes aguilerai sp. nov. This new species represents the third described species of the genus and the first recorded from the Peruvian Andes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Charinus Simon, 1892 is described from Santa Teresa District (1436 -1511 m of altitude), La Convención, Cusco, Peru, being this the third Charinus species from this region and the fifth one for this South American country. Its general feature and female gonopods greatly resembles Charinus longitarsus Armas & Palomino-Cardenas, 2016, and C. yanatile Palomino-Cardenas & Armas, 2022, from Cusco, too; but it differs from them by having 16 instead of 14 trichobothria in the distitibia of leg IV; on the other hand, in C. longitarsus the leg I has 30 tarsomeres (43 in the new species); whereas C. yanatiles has larger median ocular tubercle and the first tarsomere of leg I is longer than tarsomeres 1+2 joined. Also, the description of the female gonopods of C. longitarsus is emended and a taxonomic key for the identification of the Peruvian species of Charinus is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An update to the Flora of Antioquia, Colombia, is presented for Selaginella. Herein 46 species are recognized, 12 of which are new records for the department, including two recently described species (S. gioiae and S. rachipterygia), one undescribed species, and a new record for the country (S. meridensis). Five species previously cited as occurring in the department are excluded. A dichotomous key and distribution notes are presented for the 46 recognized species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new species Pentacalia atrovinosa (Compositae) is described from the Cordillera de Cayapas in northwestern Ecuador. Among other characters, the species is well characterized by its glabrous, fleshy leaves and long-pedunculate capitula with burgundy-colored involucral bracts and ray florets. A detailed taxonomic discussion of similar species is provided, as well as distributional data and illustrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the rediscovery of Rubus pendulus Rusby, "Mora India", described in 1933 from Colombia and not mentioned again until the present study. We also update its distribution with eight new localities in Colombia, seven in Ecuador and one in Peru, being a new record for the flora of the latter two countries. This is the first time that R. pendulus' stipules and flowers are found and detailed through a botanical description, illustrations and photographs. Rubus pendulus is morphologically differentiated from R. bogotensis Benth., R. mollifrons Focke, R. porphyromallos Focke and R. urticifolius Poir., with whom it was previously confused and we give a brief explanation on the type specimen status of R. mollifrons and R. porphyromallos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Amanoa (Phyllanthaceae) is described from the sandstone Nangaritza Plateau in the Cordillera del Cóndor Region in southern Ecuador. Amanoa condorensis J.L.Clark & D.A.Neill is a small tree, 4 m tall that is only known from the type collection. The new species is distinct by a shrub habit, presence of coriaceous leaves with an acuminate apex, and congested inflorescences. The relatively high elevation of the type locality, presence of an androphore, and the habit as shrub or low tree are an unusual combination for Amanoa. The conservation status of A. condorensis is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), based on IUCN Criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]