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Amber is a fragile (in Angell's classification) natural glass that has performed maturation processes over geological time. The terahertz dynamics of Baltic amber that was about 40 million years old were studied by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) in the frequency range of 0.2 and 6.0 THz. In general, the intensity of a boson peak is weak for fragile glass. In the terahertz transmission spectra of Baltic amber in the previous study, no boson peak was observed upon slow cooling. However, in the present study, upon rapid cooling down to 15 K, the boson peak was observed clearly at 0.36 THz by the suppression of ice nucleation of confined water. The dynamic correlation length determined by the boson peak frequency was compared with the static structure correlation length and the scale of the medium-range order as determined by the first sharp diffraction peak of X-ray diffraction (XRD) in the recent literature. It was found that the dynamic correlation length determined by THz-TDS was closely related to the static correlation length determined by the XRD analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new tribe Twangsteini trib. nov. (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) including a new genus Twangste gen. nov. with a new species T. belokobylskiji sp. nov. is described from Late Eocene Baltic amber. The tribe Twangsteini is interpreted as an extinct, basal and at the same time strongly advanced phylogenetic lineage of Pimplinae. This inference is based on a number of characters in which it resembles the Mesozoic subfamily Labenopimplinae and a number of apomorphies and plesiomorphies. Morphological similarity with the extant "Polysphincta" group of genera is the basis for the assumption that Twangste developed as a parasitoid on adult spiders (Arachnida, Araneida) or in their egg cocoons, supposedly the primary biology for the Polysphincta genus group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The question, when ants first appeared, remains unanswered. However, images of ants in Burmese amber show that some extinct types existed back then. By the mid-Cenozoic, most fossil ants could be assigned to extant genera. The present work examines ancient associations between ants and other organisms based on fossils in amber. Topics include fungal associates, interactions with higher plants, associations between ants and arachnids, ants bringing food to the colony, insect parasites and predators, nematode parasites, ants visiting flowers, ant mimics and gut microbes in ants. All specimens included in the present work are listed with the amber source, present location, published accounts and accession numbers of those in the Poinar amber collection (PAC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An untargeted metabolomics for ageing markers of Baltic amber is first proposed. • Baltic amber ageing involves autooxidation associated to C=C in polylabdanoid. • Hydrolysis is a primary factor making aged Baltic amber very brittle. Cherished amber relics have undergone long-period burial environments carrying several ageing deterioration characteristics, such as crazing, discolouration, and decreased hardness, which makes amber artefacts fragile. Ageing is inevitable for amber exposed to air, emphasising the need for a suitable preservation environment based on the ageing mechanism. However, related research, specifically on the transformed compositions and structures of archaeological amber, has been limited due to complexities in deciphering the intricate components. In this research, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) were applied on geological and archaeological Baltic amber to find the ageing pathways. An untargeted metabolomics analysis developed for the linear modelling of molecular features data was utilised in combination with Py-GC/MS results, and statistically significant variations provided ten increased and ten decreased ageing markers. We propose an ageing mechanism for the succinite molecular structure, which involves oxidation of the polylabdanoid and hydrolysis of the esterification cross-link structure between succinic acid and labdanoid. Simultaneously, monoterpenes were released from the amber structure. Our untargeted Py-GC/MS metabolomics approach offers a groundbreaking and more systematic method for investigating the ageing mechanism of multi-component organic polymers in archaeological artefacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pompilidae are a cosmopolitan family of aculeate parasitoid wasps with 24 extinct species. Here, we provide a new species description for an enigmatic species of Pepsinae: Paleogenia indomini Colombo & Waichert sp. nov. The new taxon is easily distinguished from congeners by having a long tibial spur, ~0.8× longer than the first tarsomere, and by the presence of a large basal pale line extending medially on the clypeus. A key for the species of Paleogenia is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new extinct species of the genus Dibelonetes R. Sahlberg, 1847: D. antecessor sp. nov. from Baltic amber and three new extinct species of the genus Nazeris Fauvel, 1873: N. antiquus sp. nov. from Baltic amber, N. damzeni sp. nov. and N. electrus sp. nov. from Ukrainian (Rovno) amber are described, illustrated and distinguished from related species. New records of the extinct species of the genera Dysanabatium Bernhauer, 1915 and Orsunius Assing, 2011 from Baltic amber are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The correct interpretation of fossils and their reliable taxonomic placements are fundamental for understanding the evolutionary history of biodiversity. Amber inclusions often preserve more morphological information than compression fossils, but are often partially hidden or distorted, which can impede taxonomic identification. Here, we studied four new fossil species of Darwin wasps from Baltic and Dominican amber, using micro computed tomography (micro-CT) scans and 3D reconstructions to accurately interpret and increase the availability of morphological information. We then infer their taxonomic placement in a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis by combining morphological and molecular data of extant and fossil Darwin wasps and evaluate the impact and usefulness of the additional information from micro-CT scanning. The results show that although we gained significant morphological information from micro-CT scanning, especially concerning measurements and hidden dorsal and ventral structures, this did not impact subfamily-level placement for any of the four fossils. However, micro-CT scanning improved the precision of fossil placements at the genus level, which might be key in future dating and diversification analyses. Finally, we describe the four new fossil species as Rhyssa gulliveri sp. nov. in Rhyssinae, Triclistus levii sp. nov. in Metopiinae, Firkantus freddykruegeri gen. et. sp. nov. in Pimplinae and Magnocula sarcophaga gen. et sp. nov. in Phygadeuontinae. The first two species are the first known representatives of the subfamilies Rhyssinae and Metopiinae in amber.

Acrulia danica Shavrin sp. n. from late Eocene Danish amber is described and illustrated based on a female holotype. The new species, embedded within a small piece of amber, was scanned using X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT), to enable the detailed study of its morphology including the taxonomically important structure of the accessory sclerite. Previously, only three extant species of the genus Acrulia Thomson, 1858 were known from the Palaearctic Region. The new species is compared with extant congeners and the importance of a detailed study of the fossil entomofauna of the Danish amber is discussed in view of the hypotheses about its different origin from other European ambers.urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:67972F3A-DF6A-48D5-A4BD-96EF8AA87DCF [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new genera, Baltanchonidium gen. nov. (type species—Baltanchonidium eocenicum sp. nov.) from the subtribe Typoderina, tribe Plinthini and Parvacalles gen. nov. (type species—Parvacalleskotthoffi sp. nov.) from the subtribe Tylodina, tribe Cryptorhynchini, one new subgenus, Falsorhamphus subgen. nov. (type species—Palaeorhamphus (Falsorhamphus) alekseevi sp. nov.) genus Palaeorhamphus Legalov, 2016, subtribe Palaeorhamphina of the tribe Rhamphini, and ten new species, Leiosoma (Palaeoleiosoma) michalski sp. nov. and L. (P.) shevnini sp. nov., subtribe Leiosomatina of the tribe Plinthini, Baltanchonidium eocenicum sp. nov., subtribe Typoderina, Succinacalles silvestris sp. nov., subtribe Cryptorhynchina of the tribe Cryptorhynchini, Parvacalleskotthoffi sp. nov., subtribe Tylodina, Succinostyphlus squamosus sp. nov. and S. katarzynae sp. nov., subtribe Styphlina, tribe Ellescini, Palaeorhamphus (Falsorhamphus) alekseevi sp. nov., subtribe Palaeorhamphina, Arostropsis kirejtshuki sp. nov., tribe Naupactini, Polydrusus (Palaeodrosus) andrushchenkoi sp. nov., tribe Polydrusini, are described from Eocene Baltic amber. A key to species of the genus Succinostyphlus Kuska, 1996 is compiled. The article presents the first fossil record of the subtribe Typoderina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus Plesiomedetera gen. nov., is described from Late Eocene Baltic amber. The genus is placed in the extant subfamily Medeterinae and includes five recognized and two doubtful species, all poorly described by Meunier in 1907–1908 and never reported again. Plesiomedetera flammea (Meunier, 1907), comb. nov. and P. mustela (Meunier, 1907), comb. nov. are described and illustrated, and a key to recognized species of this genus is compiled. The other eight extinct genera from Baltic amber are briefly reviewed, belonging to extant subfamilies ?Diaphorinae, Dolichopodinae, Medeterinae, Peloropeodinae and Sciapodinae, and a key to these genera is compiled. The following new combinations (comb. nov.) are proposed: Plesiomedetera decora (Meunier, 1907), P. elegantula (Meunier, 1907), P. vana (Meunier, 1907), P. lasciva (Meunier, 1907), P. lepida (Meunier, 1907), Medeterites atterraneus (Nazarov, 1994), M. gestuosus (Meunier, 1907), M. gulosus (Meunier, 1907), M. latipennis (Meunier, 1907), Palaeoargyra planipedia (Meunier, 1907), Palaeomedeterus praeconcinnus (Evenhuis, 1994), P. concinnus (Meunier, 1907), P. tertiarius (Meunier, 1907), Prohercostomus ciliatus (Meunier, 1907), P. devinctus (Meunier, 1907), P. gracilis (Meunier, 1907), P. minutus (Meunier, 1907), P. morbosus (Meunier, 1907), P. smicrus (Meuffels et Grootaert, 1999) and P. inumbratus (Meunier, 1907). Sciara pusilla Meunier, 1899 is considered nomen nudum, rather than unplaced species of Dolichopodidae. Dolichopus smicrus Meuffels et Grootaert, 1999 (unnecessary new name) is placed in synonymy with Prohercostomus minutus. In all, 53 recognized, 5 doubtful and 10 unplaced species from Baltic amber are listed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The correct interpretation of fossils and their reliable taxonomic placements are fundamental for understanding the evolutionary history of biodiversity. Amber inclusions often preserve more morphological information than compression fossils, but are often partially hidden or distorted, which can impede taxonomic identification. Here, we studied four new fossil species of Darwin wasps from Baltic and Dominican amber, using micro computed tomography (micro-CT) scans and 3D reconstructions to accurately interpret and increase the availability of morphological information. We then infer their taxonomic placement in a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis by combining morphological and molecular data of extant and fossil Darwin wasps and evaluate the impact and usefulness of the additional information from micro-CT scanning. The results show that although we gained significant morphological information from micro-CT scanning, especially concerning measurements and hidden dorsal and ventral structures, this did not impact subfamily-level placement for any of the four fossils. However, micro-CT scanning improved the precision of fossil placements at the genus level, which might be key in future dating and diversification analyses. Finally, we describe the four new fossil species as Rhyssa gulliveri sp. nov. in Rhyssinae, Triclistus levii sp. nov. in Metopiinae, Firkantus freddykruegeri gen. et. sp. nov. in Pimplinae and Magnocula sarcophaga gen. et sp. nov. in Phygadeuontinae. The first two species are the first known representatives of the subfamilies Rhyssinae and Metopiinae in amber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) films with 1 wt% of amber extract (AbE) as a bio‐additive were obtained through solvent mixing using 1,4‐dioxane, which was later evaporated. The extract, derived from the residual amber generated during jewelry manufacturing in the Gdansk region (Poland), was evaluated for its morphology and thermal response. The resulting films were transparent, and the addition of AbE imparted a yellow hue. The crystallinity characteristics of the PLA/AbE films were analyzed through FTIR, DSC, POM, and XRD results. The cold crystallization ability of PLA in the presence of AbE was assessed by comparing the films with their annealed counterparts. The annealed films demonstrated a slight increase in the crystalline phase without any change in transparency. The presence of amber extract particles impeded the formation of stable polymorph crystals within the PLA structure, leading to an expanded size distribution of spherulites and a reduced crystallization rate. Furthermore, the addition of AbE showed promise in enhancing the UV–vis blocking of PLA, as AbE particles decreased the transmission rate across the entire UV–vis spectrum. Highlights: PLA thin films with 1% AbE were produced by the casting method.Amber extract from isopropanol fraction has a porous structure.PLA and amber extract exhibit homogeneous mixing in 1,4‐dioxane solution.The AbE particles improved the UV–vis blocking of PLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Eduardoxenus rasnitsyni n. sp., of the fungus weevil tribe Valenfriesiini (Coleoptera: Anthribidae: Choraginae), is described from Eocene Baltic amber. This new species is similar to E. unicus Legalov, Nazarenko and Perkovsky, 2018 from Rovno amber but differs in the rounded, more convex eyes, wide antennal club, and the lateral carina reaching the middle of the pronotum. This is the first record of the subfamily Choraginae from Baltic amber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species Electrotoma kopylovi sp. nov. is described from a larva (prepupa) from the Upper Eocene Baltic amber. It is the second find of a fossil of the family Electrotomidae. The new species differs from the only known congeneric specimen, E. succini Rasnitsyn, 1977 in the closer placed antenna and stemma, less shortened clypeus, symmetrical labrum and denser chaetae on head and thorax. The composition of E. kopylovi syninclusions supports the previously stated hypothesis that a combination of unusual circumstances were required for electrotomids to be preserved in resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characteristics of the locomotor apparatus (excluding wings) and other diagnostic features of Mordellidae preserved in Eocene Baltic and Rovno amber are investigated. Main features of Eocene Mordellidae are compared with those of their extant relatives using mainly light microscopy and micro-CT scans. The entire record of Eocene and Oligocene fossils of this family is reviewed, revealing a great number of discrepancies in diagnoses of species of Eocene and Oligocene Mordellidae at the generic level, which makes a reliable discussion of their biogeography and relationship with extant species impossible. To overcome this situation, four new collective group names (i.e., without a type species designation) are established: Baltimorda nov., Baltistena nov., Rovnostena nov., and Petrimordella nov. Seven new species of Mordellistenini from Baltic amber are described, diagnosed and illustrated: Baltistena ultima sp. nov., B. aurata sp. nov., B. longistrigata sp. nov., B. hoff einsorum sp. nov., B. concava sp. nov., B. brevispina sp. nov., and B. atronigra sp. nov. The number of Mordellistenini recorded from Baltic amber is doubled from seven to fourteen. The subgenus Palaeostena Kubisz, 2003, with the type species Falsomordellistena eocenica Kubisz, 2003, is elevated to a genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the relationship between amber and heritage tourism, utilizing Poland as an illustrative context. Amber, a form of fossilized resin, holds significant importance across a multitude of fields, such as science, culture, and economy, having been used as a material by artists, craftsmen, and jewelers for centuries. Today, amber draws visitors to locations where it is found and to institutions that display amber collections, such as museums and galleries. Furthermore, it is an essential component of various events, including exhibitions, fairs, and amber fishing competitions. Amber also forms the foundation of many tourist routes, such as the renowned Amber Route. Owing to its deep ties with cultural heritage, amber is considered a central attraction within amber-based heritage tourism. This paper examines the current contribution of amber to the development of heritage tourism. The authors conducted a literature analysis, online source queries, evaluations of institutions (e.g., museums), and personal observations to address the topic. The article is divided into eight sections, each highlighting different aspects of the investigated subject, ultimately suggesting an adaptation of Timothy and Boyd's (2003) model to illustrate the development of amber-based heritage tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four specimens of the same species of scolopendromorph centipede from Eocene Baltic amber provide the first fossil occurrence of the family Plutoniumidae, a clade represented by seven extant species. The fossil material, documented by light microscopy and computed microtomography, is assigned to the genus Theatops Newport, 1844, which currently has a disjunct distribution in temperate North America, the Mediterranean region, and central China. The Eocene species is diagnostically distinct from extant congeners and is formally described as Theatops groehni sp. nov. Phylogenetic analysis of combined morphological and molecular data for three loci finds T. groehni to be nested within crown-group Plutoniumidae. The discovery of T. groehni constrains the minimal divergence date for crown-group Plutoniumidae and is consistent with hypotheses regarding the extent and nature of tropical to warm temperate European forests during the Eocene. The fossil reinforces the hypothesis that the distribution of Plutoniumidae, once more geographically widespread, has been pruned by extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Crusopimpla klopfsteinae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) is described from Upper Eocene Baltic amber. This is the first reliable finding of Darwin wasps of the subfamily Pimplinae in Baltic amber. The systematic position of Pimpla succini Giebel, 1856, the previously described species from Baltic amber as a taxon of uncertain systematic status (Ichneumonoidea incertae sedis) is established. The diagnosis of the genus Crusopimpla, previously known from impression fossils from the Tadushi Formation (early Eocene), is amended. Finding of a representative of the subfamily Pimplinae confirms that Baltic amber is an extremely selective oryctocenosis that only approximately reflects the true biological situation. The studied fauna is shown to have broader connections with other fossil localities than previously assumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xenophagus simutniki sp. n. is described from a late Eocene Rovno amber specimen. The new species is similar to the fossil Xenophagus popovi Lyubarsky et Perkovsky, 2017 from the late Eocene Baltic amber (W Russia), differing in the medially notched anterior margin of the pronotum. The Rovno xenosceline fauna is the richest among both extant and extinct faunas. This fauna includes the extinct genera Xenophagus Lyubarsky & Perkovsky, 2017 and Xenohimatium Lyubarsky & Perkovsky, 2012, which are closest to the extant Mediterranean Xenoscelis Wollaston 1864 and the representative of the extant boreal genus Zavaljus Reitter, 1880. A key to extinct species of the subfamily Xenoscelinae is presented. The possible reasons of xenoscelines abundance in European amber forests are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the results of Raman spectroscopy and SERS for the study of fluorescent components of Baltic amber via the extraction method. Using SERS, it was possible to confirm the presence of anthracene derivatives in amber: tetracene and benzanthracene. It has been shown that SERS methods are effective for the detection of aromatic compounds; they increase the registered Raman signal and make it possible to identify peaks characteristic of the compounds under study. By combining experimental methods with DFT simulations, anthracene derivatives were modeled and confirmed to be present in the structure of Baltic amber. A combination of the proposed methods can be used to distinguish between different types of amber and isolate the necessary amber components. The obtained results are promising for compiling spectral maps of ambers for their possible classification by their place of origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nothepyris Evans, 1973 is revised. Six species are recognised, two being previously described species, Nothepyris brasiliensis Evans, 1973 and Nothepyris pretiosus Colombo & Azevedo, 2019, and four species described and illustrated as new, Nothepyris beedrillsp. nov., Nothepyris combeesp. nov., Nothepyris durantsp. nov. and Nothepyris vespiquensp. nov. The species Nothepyris sulcatus (Azevedo, 1999) syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Nothepyris brasiliensis. For the first time, males of this genus are described, and the morphology of the male genitalia is compared and discussed with other Scleroderminae. An updated taxonomic key to all species for both sexes is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detailed morphological study based on the findings of well-preserved fossil specimens in Eocene Baltic amber revealed two new species, Metoisops michalskii Kim, Taszakowski, and Herczek sp. nov. and Metoisops popovi Kim, Taszakowski, and Jung sp. nov. The morphological information of the extinct genus Metoisops including diagnoses, descriptions of new species, and a species key are provided. The divided fourth antennal segment is depicted. The tribal transfer of Metoisops from Electromyiommini to Gigantometopini is proposed based on major morphological characters, five-six femoral trichobothria, presence of a deep incision between calli, and the structure of parameres. The need for a phylogenetic revision of the internal classification within Isometopinae is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new laniatoreans from Eocene Baltic amber are described. Baltonychia obscura gen. et sp. nov. represents the first fossil Laniatores with a peltonychium on tarsus III--IV, implying that its closest living relatives are likely members of the extant families Cladonychiidae or Travuniidae. A second fossil is described as Insidiatores indet. as its preservation does not allow further assignment. Both fossils are substantially different to the so far only known Baltic amber laniatorean species Proholoscotolemon nemastomoides (Koch & Berendt, 1854), and suggest a more diverse Laniatores fauna in the Eocene of north-central Europe. The evolutionary history of the infraorder Insidiatores and their development into troglomorphic species is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed germination is a crucial stage in the development of all plants. It normally occurs in the soil after the seed has fallen from the mother plant. In some infrequent instances, precocious germination (a type of viviparity or vivipary) occurs when the seed sprouts while still within the fruit. The present paper describes the first case of precocious germination of a fossil plant involving a number of seeds that have germinated in a pine cone embedded in Eocene Baltic amber. At the tips of the emerging hypocotyls are clusters of needles in fascicles of 5, associating the fossil with the extinct pine species Pinus cembrifolia Caspary described earlier from Baltic amber. Environmental implications of this discovery are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a single well-preserved specimen from Eocene Baltic amber, a new comb-clawed beetle Isomira lobanovi sp. n. (Alleculinae: Alleculini: Gonoderina) is described and illustrated. The new species belongs to the subgenus Mucheimira Novák, 2016, with extant species distributed in South China, Himalaya and the south of Arabian Peninsula. Isomira lobanovi sp. n. is the most similar to I. (Mucheimira) avula Seidlitz, 1896 from Baltic amber, but differs from the latter by the following characters: antennae longer, distinctly moderately serrate; antennomere 11 clearly longer than antennomere 10; antennomere 3 with sharply obliquely truncate apical margin. A key to fossil species of Isomira Mulsant, 1845 from Baltic amber is given. The Mesozoic species Jurallecula grossa Medvedev, 1969 must be excluded from the subtribe Alleculina and considered as Alleculini incertae sedis. Two late Eocene species of Isomira from the Florissant Formation (North America) have no distinct characters of the genus, and one of them, “Isomira” aurora Wickham, 1914 would be better interpreted as Coleoptera incertae sedis. The subgenus Mucheimira is considered as a basal group in the genus Isomira. Two Triassic taxa, Menephiloides minensis Fujiyama, 1973 and Adelidium cordatum Tillyard, 1918, are proposed to interpret as Coleoptera incertae sedis

Beetle larvae contribute to the overall biomass with a great share, yet they often stay unnoticed and underexplored. Larvae of the group Scraptiidae, also called false flower beetles, lead a life hidden in the wood, not easily accessible for observers. There, they contribute to wood decomposition and carbon cycling. Even though their ecological role is of great importance, these larvae have been comparably rarely studied. This is true for extant as well as fossil representatives of this group. It seems that this knowledge gap is not based on the limited availability of material but results from insufficiently studied material. Here we report new specimens, of which seven are extant and twelve are fossil. Fossil specimens are either from 40-million-year-old Baltic amber (Eocene) or 100-million-year-old Myanmar amber (Cretaceous), the latter representing the oldest record of these larvae. All specimens considered here possess a large, elongated terminal end. We performed an outline analysis of the shape of this terminal end for all so far known larval specimens sufficiently well preserved (in total 33 specimens: 17 extant, 14 Eocene, 2 Cretaceous). There is a recognisable difference between Eocene and extant specimens, yet it remains unclear whether this is due to different represented larval stages or an effect of evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus and species of stoneflies, Balticonemoura bulbosus gen. et sp. nov. (Plecoptera: Nemouridae: Nemourinae), are described and illustrated from the Eocene Baltic amber. Balticonemoura gen. nov. differs from other nemourids mainly by its unique epiproct and structure of cerci. Balticonemoura gen. nov. represents the first new extinct genus of Nemouridae in Baltic amber. Balticonemoura bulbosus sp. nov. is the seventh nemourid species known from the Baltic amber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudoscorpions belong to the oldest terrestrial lineages with origins in the Devonian (ca. 385 Ma) but their fossil record is extremely sparse and little is known about their diversification over time. Here, we describe the first fossil species of the pseudoscorpion family Pseudotyrannochthoniidae that resemble the Devonian fossils in major details, such as the chaetotaxy of the pedipalps. We describe two new species, Allochthonius balticus sp. nov. from Baltic amber and Centrochthonius bitterfeldicus sp. nov. from Bitterfeld amber in northern Europe. Both species can unequivocally be assigned to extant genera and provide further evidence for dramatic range shifts in European invertebrate biota since the Paleogene. Allochthonius Chamberlin, 1929 is a diverse genus in eastern Asia (China, Korea, and Japan) today but does not occur anywhere in central Asia, Europe or North America. Centrochthonius Beier, 1931 is a poorly known genus but seems to be restricted to high altitude habitats in central Asia (China, Kyrgyzstan, and Nepal). With range retractions to regions more than 4600 km away from the European amber deposits, the fossils highlight total lineage extinction in Europe and survival in refugia that are climatically and botanically most similar to the Baltic amber forest of the Eocene. Overall, our results support the concept of morphological but potentially also ecological stasis in major pseudoscorpion lineages over long periods of time and agree with previous studies that suggested a warm temperate rather than subtropical or tropical climate for the time of amber deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affected by the Novel Coronavirus epidemic, the challenge for SMEs in 2020 will change from "difficult mode" to "hell mode". In order to prevent cross-infection, offline retail, catering, tourism, supermarkets, vegetable markets and other traditional industries are almost closed. In other industries, most companies have delayed the resumption of work, but rent and wages are still paid. Under the huge cost pressure, many enterprises are facing a crisis. In Latvia, one of the three Baltic states, Baltic amber processing and retailing is an industry heavily dependent on tourism, and local amber souvenirs and jewellery have been severely affected by the outbreak. The transformation of marketing channels is therefore a priority for Baltic Amber jewellery sellers. In the traditional online marketing, Baltic amber jewellery is not easy to be recognised by the majority of Chinese consumers because of its own characteristics, so on the basis of a variety of online marketing, the marketing of Baltic amber still needs innovation to achieve the expected marketing goals. With fierce competition from rivals in online marketing in China, there will still be many difficulties, among which the biggest difficulty is that many sellers on Douyin platform are selling fake amber. And many Chinese consumers lack sufficient ability to purchase the authentic Baltic amber. Based on these problems, the author takes Georgs Romulis /Amber with Soul Baltic amber jewellery brand as the research subject and potential consumers of Baltic amber on the Douyin platform as the research object to carry out the new online marketing methods. The author takes the literature method, statistical analysis, and comparative analysis as the research methods. Through Douyin and WeChat platforms, the author create the Douyin-WeChat Network Marketing Model as the innovative way to enlarge Baltic amber marketing in China. Finally, the author finds that an innovative way of online marketing method for Baltic Amber is to find target customers through Douyin platform, communicate with potential customers and get their payment through WeChat platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Of the 12 specimens of Calathus-like sphodrine beetles presently known from Baltic and Rovno amber deposits, 11 specimens were investigated using light microscopy, micro-CT scanning, and 3D imaging techniques. For the first time, many significant diagnostic characters of the external morphology and male and female genitalia of Eocene Sphodrini were studied in detail. Based on these data, three fossil species are diagnosed and placed in a natural group characterized by a derived pattern in elytral chaetotaxy and microsculpture and therefore the genus Quasicalathus Schmidt & Will, gen. nov. is described to comprise these species. Due to the presence of a styloid right paramere, Quasicalathus gen. nov. is considered a member of the sphodrine "P clade" of Ruiz et al. (2009). However, given the absence of synapomorphies of any species group of the P clade, the systematic position of Quasicalathus gen. nov. within this clade remains unresolved. The Baltic amber species Calathus elpis Ortuño & Arillo, 2009 is redescribed based on additional, fossil, non-holotype material and transferred to Quasicalathus gen. nov. Identification of the additional C. elpis fossil material remains slightly uncertain due to the non-availability of the holotype for direct comparison coupled with doubts regarding the accuracy of certain character states presented in its original description. Two species are newly described: Quasicalathus agonicollis Schmidt & Will, sp. nov., from Baltic amber, and Q. conservans Schmidt & Will, sp. nov., from Rovno amber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beetle larvae contribute to the overall biomass with a great share, yet they often stay unnoticed and underexplored. Larvae of the group Scraptiidae, also called false flower beetles, lead a life hidden in the wood, not easily accessible for observers. There, they contribute to wood decomposition and carbon cycling. Even though their ecological role is of great importance, these larvae have been comparably rarely studied. This is true for extant as well as fossil representatives of this group. It seems that this knowledge gap is not based on the limited availability of material but results from insufficiently studied material. Here we report new specimens, of which seven are extant and twelve are fossil. Fossil specimens are either from 40-million-year-old Baltic amber (Eocene) or 100-million-year-old Myanmar amber (Cretaceous), the latter representing the oldest record of these larvae. All specimens considered here possess a large, elongated terminal end. We performed an outline analysis of the shape of this terminal end for all so far known larval specimens sufficiently well preserved (in total 33 specimens: 17 extant, 14 Eocene, 2 Cretaceous). There is a recognisable difference between Eocene and extant specimens, yet it remains unclear whether this is due to different represented larval stages or an effect of evolution.

Xenophagus simutniki sp. n. is described from a late Eocene Rovno amber specimen. The new species is similar to the fossil Xenophagus popovi Lyubarsky et Perkovsky, 2017 from the late Eocene Baltic amber (W Russia), differing in the medially notched anterior margin of the pronotum. The Rovno xenosceline fauna is the richest among both extant and extinct faunas. This fauna includes the extinct genera Xenophagus Lyubarsky & Perkovsky, 2017 and Xenohimatium Lyubarsky & Perkovsky, 2012, which are closest to the extant Mediterranean Xenoscelis Wollaston 1864 and the representative of the extant boreal genus Zavaljus Reitter, 1880. A key to extinct species of the subfamily Xenoscelinae is presented. The possible reasons of xenoscelines abundance in European amber forests are discussed.

The article describes the results of Raman spectroscopy and SERS for the study of fluorescent components of Baltic amber via the extraction method. Using SERS, it was possible to confirm the presence of anthracene derivatives in amber: tetracene and benzanthracene. It has been shown that SERS methods are effective for the detection of aromatic compounds; they increase the registered Raman signal and make it possible to identify peaks characteristic of the compounds under study. By combining experimental methods with DFT simulations, anthracene derivatives were modeled and confirmed to be present in the structure of Baltic amber. A combination of the proposed methods can be used to distinguish between different types of amber and isolate the necessary amber components. The obtained results are promising for compiling spectral maps of ambers for their possible classification by their place of origin.

Molecular studies on the evolution of ladybird beetles date their origin somewhere in the Cretaceous, but no fossils are known from that period. The oldest representatives come from the Eocene, with the richest diversity found in Baltic amber. Until now, representatives of only three tribes (from around 40 known) have been recognized. Recent investigation of Baltic amber have revealed representatives of the fourth tribe (Microweiseini), which are described here as Baltosidis gen. nov. with three new species: B. damgaardi sp. nov. , B. damzeni sp. nov. and B. szadziewskii sp. nov. In order to test the systematic placement of this extinct genus, a phylogenetic analysis of Microweiseinae was conducted. The results place Baltosidis in a cluster with four modern genera of Microweiseini distributed exclusively in the New World. Such a distribution pattern is surprising because no close relatives of the newly described fossil genus are known from Europe or even from the Palaearctic region. Analysis of the distribution of Microweiseini genera leads to the conclusion of a possible Gondwanan origin of the tribe. Further comparison of the diversity of the ladybird beetles from modern ecosystems with those known from Baltic amber suggests substantial differences between these communities and a recent radiation of modern fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ancient fungal parasite of a Camponotus ant (Formicidae: Hymenoptera) in Baltic amber is described as Allocordyceps baltica gen. et sp. nov. (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae). The new genus is characterized by an orange, stalked, cup-shaped ascoma with partially immersed perithecia that emerges from the rectum of the ant, two separate stromata with septate mycelium that emerge from the base of the neck and the abdomen of the ant, respectively, and free-standing putative perithecia bearing putative asci with putative multicellular ascospores fragmented into one-celled partspores. This oldest known fossil fungus of an ant could represent a precursor of the genus Ophiocordyceps , which at present is the only fungal lineage parasitizing ants of the genus Camponotus. The fossil shows unique morphological features that existed in the Hypocreales some 35–55 MYA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first ichneumonoid aphidiine wasp species from Sakhalinian amber (middle Eocene) is described. Ephedrus rasnitsyni Davidian and Kaliuzhna sp. nov. іs the oldest named aphidiine female, the first fossil aphidiine from Asia, and the oldest named species of the Ephedrus. Ephedrus rasnitsyni Davidian and Kaliuzhna sp. nov. and the two fossil species of Ephedrus, i.e., Ephedrus primordialis from Baltic amber (late Eocene) and Ephedrus mirabilis from Camoins-les-Bains (early Oligocene), presumably belong to the Ephedrus plagiator species group of the subgenus Ephedrus sensu stricto, and new species differs from them in having a longer petiole and a rather long 3M vein that does not reach the forewing margin. It additionally differs from E. primordialis by having longer ovipositor sheaths. The new species is most similar to the extant Ephedrus validus and Ephedrus carinatus, from which it differs by the less elongated F1, absence of notauli, and by ovipositor sheaths that are 3.0 times as long as wide.

The first ichneumonoid aphidiine wasp species from Sakhalinian amber (middle Eocene) is described. Ephedrus rasnitsyni Davidian and Kaliuzhna sp. nov. іs the oldest named aphidiine female, the first fossil aphidiine from Asia, and the oldest named species of the Ephedrus. Ephedrus rasnitsyni Davidian and Kaliuzhna sp. nov. and the two fossil species of Ephedrus, i.e., Ephedrus primordialis from Baltic amber (late Eocene) and Ephedrus mirabilis from Camoins-les-Bains (early Oligocene), presumably belong to the Ephedrus plagiator species group of the subgenus Ephedrus sensu stricto, and new species differs from them in having a longer petiole and a rather long 3M vein that does not reach the forewing margin. It additionally differs from E. primordialis by having longer ovipositor sheaths. The new species is most similar to the extant Ephedrus validus and Ephedrus carinatus, from which it differs by the less elongated F1, absence of notauli, and by ovipositor sheaths that are 3.0 times as long as wide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus Kaszubia gen. nov. (type species Kaszubia wanati sp. nov.) is described from Eocene Baltic amber (found in the vicinity of Gdańsk). It is similar to the genus Rhyncolosoma Champion, 1914 but differs in the six-segmented flagellum, rather thick straight rostrum, non-transverse 3rd antennomere, and scape not reaching the middle of the eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spalangiopelta is a small genus of chalcid wasps that has received little attention despite the widespread distribution of its extant species. The fossil record of the genus is restricted to a single species from Miocene Dominican amber. We describe two new fossil species, Spalangiopelta darlingi sp. n. and Spalangiopelta semialba sp. n. from Baltic amber. The species can be placed within the extant genus Spalangiopelta based on the distinctly raised hind margin of the mesopleuron. 3D models reconstructed from µCT data were utilized to assist in the descriptions. Furthermore, we provide a key for the females of all currently known Spalangiopelta species. The phylogenetic placement of the fossils within the genus is analyzed using parsimony analysis based on morphological characters. Phylogenetic and functional relevance of two wing characters, admarginal setae and the hyaline break, are discussed. The newly described Baltic amber fossils significantly extend the minimum age of Spalangiopelta to the Upper Eocene.

A fossil cockroach, Periplaneta (?) perialla sp. nov., is described based on a larva from Rovno amber. This species is provisionally assigned to the genus Periplaneta. This is the first representative of the subfamily Blattinae, provisionally assigned to the modern genus Periplaneta, from the Eocene of Ukraine, and the first find of an amber insect from the Manevychi locality, Volyn Region. A detailed morphological description of the new species and comparison with modern cockroaches are given. It is shown that the fossil larva has a specifically modified abdominal apex characteristic of immature and wingless extant Blattidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spalangiopelta is a small genus of chalcid wasps that has received little attention despite the widespread distribution of its extant species. The fossil record of the genus is restricted to a single species from Miocene Dominican amber. We describe two new fossil species, Spalangiopelta darlingi sp. n. and Spalangiopelta semialba sp. n. from Baltic amber. The species can be placed within the extant genus Spalangiopelta based on the distinctly raised hind margin of the mesopleuron. 3D models reconstructed from νCT data were utilized to assist in the descriptions. Furthermore, we provide a key for the females of all currently known Spalangiopelta species. The phylogenetic placement of the fossils within the genus is analyzed using parsimony analysis based on morphological characters. Phylogenetic and functional relevance of two wing characters, admarginal setae and the hyaline break, are discussed. The newly described Baltic amber fossils significantly extend the minimum age of Spalangiopelta to the Upper Eocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four moth cases from middle Eocene Baltic amber, one of which has a larva in situ, are described and shown to have the characteristic shapes of cases made by bagworm moths (Psychidae) of the subfamily Typhoniinae. other fossil inclusions present in the amber pieces include arthropod groups that are common in Baltic amber and epidermal trichomes derived from leaves of the oak family (Fagaceae). Together, the fossil inclusions provide a snapshot of aspects of the biotope of the amber forest in which the bagworms lived around 45 million years ago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first pedipalpal regeneration observed in a fossil harvestman (Arachnida: Opiliones) is documented in a specimen of Dicranopalpus ramiger (Koch & Berendt, 1854) from Eocene Baltic amber (ca. 44-49 Ma). The tibia of the right pedipalp is strongly truncated and shorter than the adjacent patella and its apophysis. Possible reasons for this aberration are discussed. It most likely represents an example of partial tibial regeneration after a traumatic event, while experimental manipulation of the pedipalps of extant phalangiid harvestmen suggests that the observed morphology in the amber fossil is unlikely to be due to autospasy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new tribe, Palaeoanoplini trib. nov., with a new genus, Palaeoanoplus gen. nov., and a new species, P. horridus sp. nov., of the subfamily Curculioninae are described from the Late Eocene Baltic amber. The new tribe is close to the Recent tribe, Anoplini; however, it differs from Anoplini by its tibia without uncus, as well as by tarsal claws present, without teeth, prosternum with postocular lobes, and body covered with long erect setae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species Xeris dorbnikensis Manukyan sp. n. (Hymenoptera, Siricidae) has been described from the Eocene of Baltic amber. Previously, the family Siricidae was known from this locality only from the find of one species Eoxeris klebsi (Brues, 1926). The data on another siricid species of the genus Xeris are given without specifying the species rank. The faunistic links between the communities from the Eocene Baltic amber and modern Himalayan biota have been revealed. The paleontological history of the family Siricidae has been overviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]