Showing papers in "ZooKeys in 2019"

A pictorial key to differentiate the recently detected exotic Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann, 1901 (Acari, Ixodidae) from native congeners in North America

Abstract: Until recently, only two haemaphysaline species, Haemaphysalischordeilis (Packard, 1869) and Haemaphysalisleporispalustris (Packard, 1869), were known to occur in the United States, and neither was considered to be of significant medical or veterinary importance. In 2017-2018 established populations of the Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalislongicornis Neumann, 1901, were detected in the eastern US for the first time. Haemaphysalislongicornis has the potential to be a significant threat to human and animal health, and the urgent need to determine the full extent of its distribution and host range requires availability of a straightforward and practical guide to differentiate it from native species. We created a pictorial dichotomous key to all stages of Haemaphysalis spp. known to occur in North America with scanning electron photomicrographs of all H.longicornis life stages, including rarely seen males, to aid researchers in differentiating these species. The largely Neotropical species Haemaphysalisjuxtakochi Cooley, 1946, with established populations in Mexico and sporadic detections in the US on migrating birds is also included.

Description of Triatoma huehuetenanguensis sp. n., a potential Chagas disease vector (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae)

Abstract: A new species of the genus Triatoma Laporte, 1832 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) is described based on specimens collected in the department of Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Triatomahuehuetenanguensissp. n. is closely related to T.dimidiata (Latreille, 1811), with the following main morphological differences: lighter color; smaller overall size, including head length; and width and length of the pronotum. Natural Trypanosomacruzi (Chagas, 1909) infection, coupled with its presence in domestic habitats, makes this species a potentially important vector of Trypanosomacruzi in Guatemala.

Mollusc species from the Pontocaspian region – an expert opinion list

Abstract: Defining and recording the loss of species diversity is a daunting task, especially if identities of species under threat are not fully resolved. An example is the Pontocaspian biota. The mostly endemic invertebrate faunas that evolved in the Black Sea – Caspian Sea – Aral Sea region and live under variable salinity conditions are undergoing strong change, yet within several groups species boundaries are not well established. Collection efforts in the past decade have failed to produce living material of various species groups whose taxonomic status is unclear. This lack of data precludes an integrated taxonomic assessment to clarify species identities and estimate species richness of Pontocaspian biota combining morphological, ecological, genetic, and distribution data. In this paper, we present an expert-working list of Pontocaspian and invasive mollusc species associated to Pontocaspian habitats. This list is based on published and unpublished data on morphology, ecology, anatomy, and molecular biology. It allows us to (1) document Pontocaspian mollusc species, (2) make species richness estimates, and (3) identify and discuss taxonomic uncertainties. The endemic Pontocaspian mollusc species richness is estimated between 55 and 99 species, but there are several groups that may harbour cryptic species. Even though the conservation status of most of the species is not assessed or data deficient, our observations point to deterioration for many of the Pontocaspian species.

Annotated checklist of the terrestrial molluscs from Laos (Mollusca, Gastropoda).

Abstract: The land area of Laos is composed of a large variety of undisturbed habitats, such as high mountainous areas, huge limestone karsts and the lower Mekong Basin. Therefore, Laos is expected to have a high species diversity, especially for the land snails. However, with respect to research on malacology, Laos is probably the least well-researched area for land snail diversity in Indochina (including Laos) over the past few centuries. The handful of species lists have never been systematically revised from the colonial period to the present, so these classifications are outdated. Herein we present the first comprehensive annotated checklist with an up-to-date systematic framework of the land snail fauna in Laos based on both field investigations and literature surveys. This annotated checklist is collectively composed of 231 nominal species (62 ‘prosobranch’ and 169 heterobranches), of which 221 nominal species are illustrated. The type specimens of 143 species from several museum collections and/or 144 species of newly collected specimens are illustrated. There are 58 species recorded as new to the malacofauna of the country, and two new replacement names are proposed as Hemiplectalanxangnica Inkhavilay and Panha, nomen novum (Ariophantidae) and Chloritiskhammouanensis Inkhavilay and Panha, nomen novum (Camaenidae). Four recently described species of the genus Amphidromus from Laos, “thakhekensis”, “richgoldbergi”, “attapeuensis” and “phuonglinhae” are synonymized with previously described species. In addition, thirteen nominal species are listed as uncertain records that may or may not occur in Laos. This annotated checklist may inspire malacologists to carry on systematic research in this region.

World catalogue of the genus-group names in Elateridae (Insecta, Coleoptera). Part I: Agrypninae, Campyloxeninae, Hemiopinae, Lissominae, Oestodinae, Parablacinae, Physodactylinae, Pityobiinae, Subprotelaterinae, Tetralobinae.

Abstract: In this first part of the World catalogue of genus-group names in Elateridae, a nomenclatural review of the genera belonging to ten subfamilies is provided. All names are given with author name, year, and page of publication, type species, and type fixation. We list 132 valid genera in Agrypninae, 2 in Campyloxeninae, 4 in Hemiopinae, 11 in Lissominae, 2 in Oestodinae, 8 in Parablacinae, 2 in Physodactylinae, 2 in Pityobiinae, 1 in Subprotelaterinae, and 7 in Tetralobinae. Genera Anathesis Candeze, 1865, Antitypus Candeze, 1882, Chrostus Candeze, 1878, Dorygonus Candeze, 1859 (with subgenus Rygodonus Fleutiaux, 1932), and Macromalocera Hope, 1834 are tentatively placed as Agrypninaeincertae sedis. Paradrapetesvillosus Fleutiaux, 1895 is designated as the type species for Paradrapetes Fleutiaux, 1895. Two new genera are proposed based on species previously incorrectly used as type species for Abiphis Fleutiaux, 1926 and Lycoreus Candeze, 1857. These genera are Neoabiphis Kundrata & Bouchard, gen. n. (type species: Elaternobilis Illiger, 1800) and Neolycoreus Kundrata & Bouchard, gen. n. (type species: L.regalis Candeze, 1857), respectively. The following new combinations are proposed for species hitherto included in Abiphis Fleutiaux, 1926: Neoabiphiscandezei (Alluaud, 1896), comb. n., N.fairmairei (Fleutiaux, 1903), comb. n., N.goudoti (Fleutiaux, 1942), comb. n., N.insignis (Klug, 1833), comb. n., N.nobilis (Illiger, 1800), comb. n., and N.viettei (Girard, 1966), comb. n. The following new combinations are proposed for species hitherto included in Lycoreus Candeze, 1857: Neolycoreusalluaudi (Candeze, 1900), comb. n., N.corpulentus (Candeze, 1899), comb. n., N.cyclops (Candeze, 1865), comb. n., N.decorsei (Fleutiaux, 1903), comb. n., N.dux (Candeze, 1857), comb. n., N.goudotii (Laporte, 1838), comb. n., N.madagascariensis (Gory, 1832), comb. n., N.oculipennis (Fairmaire, 1903), comb. n., N.orbiculatus (Schwarz, 1901), comb. n., N.regalis (Candeze, 1857), comb. n., N.sicardi (Fleutiaux, 1942), comb. n., N.triangularis (Fleutiaux, 1942), comb. n., N.triocellatus (Laporte, 1838), comb. n., and N.vicinus (Fleutiaux, 1942), comb. n. The following new combinations are proposed for species hitherto incorrectly included in Plectrosternus Lacordaire, 1857: Legnarufa (Lacordaire, 1857), comb. n., L.convexa (Vats, 1991), comb. n., L.coolsi (Schimmel, 1996), comb. n., and L.foveata (Patwardhan & Athalye, 2012), comb. n. This research revealed a nomenclatural problem threatening the stability of the well-established valid genus name Adelocera Latreille, 1829. An application to the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature will be necessary in this case to maintain stability. Additionally, we act here as First Revisers (ICZN 1999, Art. 24.2) in giving precedence to Lucarius Gistel, 1848 (Staphylinidae) over Lucarius Gistel, 1848 (Elateridae).

The diversity of terrestrial arthropods in Canada.

Abstract: Based on data presented in 29 papers published in the Biota of Canada Special Issue of ZooKeys and data provided herein about Zygentoma, more than 44,100 described species of terrestrial arthropods (Arachnida, Myriapoda, Insecta, Entognatha) are now known from Canada. This represents more than a 34% increase in the number of described species reported 40 years ago (Danks 1979a). The most speciose groups are Diptera (9620 spp.), Hymenoptera (8757), and Coleoptera (8302). Less than 5% of the fauna has a natural Holarctic distribution and an additional 5.1% are non-native species. A conservatively estimated 27,000-42,600 additional species are expected to be eventually discovered in Canada, meaning that the total national species richness is ca. 71,100-86,700 and that currently 51-62% of the fauna is known. Of the most diverse groups, those that are least known, in terms of percent of the Canadian fauna that is documented, are Acari (31%), Thysanoptera (37%), Hymenoptera (46%), and Diptera (32-65%). All groups but Pauropoda have DNA barcodes based on Canadian material. More than 75,600 Barcode Index Numbers have been assigned to Canadian terrestrial arthropods, 63.5% of which are Diptera and Hymenoptera. Much work remains before the Canadian fauna is fully documented, and this will require decades to achieve. In particular, greater and more strategic investment in surveys and taxonomy (including DNA barcoding) is needed to adequately document the fauna.

DNA barcoding of British mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) to support species identification, discovery of cryptic genetic diversity and monitoring invasive species.

Abstract: Correct mosquito species identification is essential for mosquito and disease control programs. However, this is complicated by the difficulties in morphologically identifying some mosquito species. In this study, variation of a partial sequence of the cytochrome c oxidase unit I (COI) gene was used for the molecular identification of British mosquito species and to facilitate the discovery of cryptic diversity, and monitoring invasive species. Three DNA extraction methods were compared to obtain DNA barcodes from adult specimens. In total, we analyzed 42 species belonging to the genera Aedes Meigen, 1818 (21 species), Anopheles Meigen, 1818 (7 species), Coquillettidia Theobald, 1904 (1 species), Culex Linnaeus, 1758 (6 species), Culiseta Felt, 1904 (7 species), and Orthopodomyia Theobald, 1904 (1 species). Intraspecific genetic divergence ranged from 0% to 5.4%, while higher interspecific divergences were identified between Aedesgeminus Peus, 1971/Culisetalitorea (Shute, 1928) (24.6%) and Ae.geminus/An.plumbeus Stephens, 1828 (22.5%). Taxonomic discrepancy was shown between An.daciae Linton, Nicolescu & Harbach, 2004 and An.messeae Falleroni, 1828 indicating the poor resolution of the COI DNA barcoding region in separating these taxa. Other species such as Ae.cantans (Meigen, 1818)/Ae.annulipes (Meigen, 1830) showed similar discrepancies indicating some limitation of this genetic marker to identify certain mosquito species. The combination of morphology and DNA barcoding is an effective approach for the identification of British mosquitoes, for invasive mosquitoes posing a threat to the UK, and for the detection of hidden diversity within species groups.

A revised annotated checklist of louse flies (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) from Slovakia.

Abstract: The list of all known locality and host records from the literature on louse flies from Slovakia are summarized, with the addition of new collection data. New locality data are provided for five species. Three species are added to the Slovakian list: Icostaminor (Bigot in Thomson, 1858), which was erroneously cited for Moravia instead of Slovakia in the previous checklist, and Ornithophilametallica (Schiner, 1864) and Ornithomyachloropus (Bergroth, 1901), which were overlooked from the last checklist. As a result, the louse fly fauna of Slovakia increases to 19 species: 12 autochtonous species and seven rare, non-native species only occasionally imported to Slovakia or migrating to the country with their hosts. This is by far the largest regional fauna of Hippoboscidae in Central Europe, and matches the richest southern European faunas. In total, 78 host-parasite associations concerning 46 bird-host species from eight orders and nine species of mammals, including humans, have been found from a literature review in Slovakia. Two host-parasite associations are reported from Slovakia for the first time: Ornithomyaavicularia (Linnaeus, 1758) on Prunellamodularis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves: Prunellidae) and Lipoptenafortisetosa Maa, 1965 on Homosapiens Linnaeus, 1758 (Mammalia: Hominidae).

Checklist of the ichthyofauna of the Rio Negro basin in the Brazilian Amazon.

Abstract: This study presents an extensive review of published and unpublished occurrence records of fish species in the Rio Negro drainage system within the Brazilian territory. The data was gathered from two main sources: 1) litterature compilations of species occurrence records, including original descriptions and revisionary studies; and 2) specimens verification at the INPA fish collection. The results reveal a rich and diversified ichthyofauna, with 1,165 species distributed in 17 orders (+ two incertae sedis), 56 families, and 389 genera. A large portion of the fish fauna (54.3% of the species) is composed of small-sized fishes < 10 cm in standard length. The main groups are Characiformes (454 species; 39.0%), Siluriformes (416; 35.7%), Gymnotiformes (105; 9.0%), and Cichliformes (102; 8.8%). The species composition differs between the main aquatic environments, such as: main channel (159 species), lakes (296), tributary rivers (596), small streams (234), seasonal beaches (186), and rapids (41). Part of the ichthyofauna is shared with adjacent basins, such as the Orinoco, rivers of the Guiana Shield, lower Solimoes/Amazonas and upper Amazonas, which contributes to the remarkable ichthyofaunal diversity of the basin. A high rate of species endemism was observed in Characidae (24), Loricariidae (18), Cichlidae (18) and Callichthyidae (18), totalling 156 species (13.4%) endemic to the basin. An estimation of the species richness for the Rio Negro basin, considering 23 published references, resulted in 1,466 and 1,759 species (Jackknife 1 and 2, respectively), which seems reasonable when considering the large number of morphotypes left out of the present list and the low sampling effort in many areas of the basin. The results presented herein provide an additional tool for environmental managers and decision makers for conservation purposes of one of the richest and most well-preserved sub-basins of the Rio Amazonas system.

Scarabaeinae dung beetles from Ecuador: a catalog, nomenclatural acts, and distribution records.

Abstract: The Ecuadorian territory is divided into four natural regions: the coastal lowlands, the Andean highlands, the Amazon basin, and the Galapagos Islands. Each of these regions has its own ecosystems and specific vegetation. The purpose of this work is to compile an updated catalog of the Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) of Ecuador that includes distributional data and several nomenclatural acts. We compiled data from 25 scientific collections, with the examination of 13,550 scarabaeines; additionally, 390 bibliographic references were reviewed for their taxonomic histories. The Scarabaeinae fauna from Ecuador is represented by 33 genera and 223 species, with 45 range-restricted species; 27 species were erroneously recorded from the country. The following nomenclatural acts are made: (A) two new status as valid species: Canthon (Glaphyrocanthon) ohausi Balthasar, 1939, stat. n., and Deltochilum (Calhyboma) arrowi Paulian, 1939 stat. n.; (B) one new synonym: Uroxysmagnus Balthasar, 1940 = Uroxyslatesulcatus Bates, 1891, syn. n.; (C) two revalidated names: Canthidium (Canthidium) orbiculatum (Lucas, 1857) and Dichotomius (Luederwaldtinia) fortepunctatus (Luederwaldt, 1923); and (D) ten lectotypes designated for: Choeridiumorbiculatum Lucas, 1857; Choeridiumcupreum Blanchard, 1846; Canthidiumcoerulescens Balthasar, 1939; Canthonangustatus Harold, 1867; Canthonangustatusohausi Balthasar, 1939; Deltochilumtessellatum Bates, 1870; Pinotusfortepunctatus Luederwaldt, 1923; Pinotusglobulus Felsche, 1901; Uroxyslatesulcatus Bates, 1891; and Uroxysmagnus Balthasar, 1940. The type specimens related to the new nomenclatural acts are illustrated and the maps of the geographical distribution of all species are provided.

Call a spade a spade: taxonomy and distribution of Pelobates, with description of a new Balkan endemic.

Abstract: The genomic era contributes to update the taxonomy of many debated terrestrial vertebrates. In an accompanying work, we provided a comprehensive molecular assessment of spadefoot toads (Pelobates) using genomic data. Our results call for taxonomic updates in this group. First, nuclear phylogenomics confirmed the species-level divergence between the Iberian P.cultripes and its Moroccan relative P.varaldii. Second, we inferred that P.fuscus and P.vespertinus, considered subspecies until recently, feature partial reproductive isolation and thus deserve a specific level. Third, we evidenced cryptic speciation and diversification among deeply diverged lineages collectively known as Pelobatessyriacus. Populations from the Near East correspond to the Eastern spadefoot toad P.syriacus sensu stricto, which is represented by two subspecies, one in the Levant (P.s.syriacus) and the other in the rest of the range (P.s.boettgeri). Populations from southeastern Europe correspond to the Balkan spadefoot toad, P.balcanicus. Based on genetic evidence, this species is also polytypic: the nominal P.b.balcanicus inhabits the Balkan Peninsula; a new subspecies P.b.chloeaessp. nov. appears endemic to the Peloponnese. In this paper, we provide an updated overview of the taxonomy and distribution of all extant Pelobates taxa and describe P.b.chloeaessp. nov.

Phylogeography and species distribution modelling of Cryptocephalusbarii (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): is this alpine endemic species close to extinction?

Abstract: The alternation of glacial and interglacial cycles of the Quaternary period contributed in shaping the current species distribution. Cold-adapted organisms experienced range expansion and contraction in response to the temperature decrease and increase, respectively. In this study, a fragment of the mitochondrial marker COI was used to investigate the phylogeography of Cryptocephalusbarii, a cold-adapted alpine leaf beetle species endemic of Orobie Alps, northern Italy. The relationships among populations, their divergence time, and the most probable migration model were estimated and are discussed in light of the Pleistocene climate oscillations. Through a species distribution modelling analysis, the current habitat suitability was assessed and the distribution in a future global warming scenario predicted. The main divergence events that led to the actual population structure took place from ~750,000 to ~150,000 years ago, almost following the pattern of the climate oscillations that led to the increase of the connections between the populations during cold periods and the isolation on massifs in warm periods. The most supported migration model suggests that the species survived to past adverse climatic conditions within refugia inside and at the limit of the actual range. The species distribution modelling analysis showed that C.barii is extremely sensitive to air temperature variations, thus the increase of temperature caused by global warming will reduce the suitable areas within the species range, leading to its possible extinction in the next 50 years. Cryptocephalusbarii is a representative case of how cold adapted and limited distributed species have been and could be affected by climate change, that highlights the implementation of conservation actions.

Systematics of Huicundomantis, a new subgenus of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) with extraordinary cryptic diversity and eleven new species.

Abstract: Pristimantis is the most diverse genus of tetrapods comprising 532 described species. It contains a large number of morphologically cryptic species that are being discovered with the assistance of genetic evidence. We use molecular, morphological, bioacoustic, and environmental data to assess the phylogenetic relationships and determine the species within an Andean clade of Pristimantis, which is distributed from central Ecuador to northern Peru. We assign to this clade the name Huicundomantis and propose it as a subgenus. Our results show that Huicundomantis is composed of two large clades which we name as the P. phoxocephalus species group and the P. cryptomelas species group. Huicundomantis is composed of 28 species of which 12 have been described and 16 are new. We describe 11 of these undescribed species. The most effective characters to discriminate among species are DNA sequences, qualitative morphology, and advertisement calls. Morphometric and environmental characters are not very useful to define species limits. We clarify the identity of P. riveti and show that populations from southern Ecuador traditionally ascribed to P. riveti are a new species, P. lutzaesp. nov. We also show that P. prometeii is a junior synonym of P. hampatusami. The current diversity and geographic distribution of Huicundomantis are consistent with a model of allopatric speciation. All species have a restricted distribution range (less than 4330 km2) and are assigned to the Red List categories Data Deficient or threatened with extinction. We provide new reasons to increase conservation efforts for these species and their habitat. Taking our results into account, Pristimantis species richness in Ecuador increases from 211 to 221 species, and the number of species endemic to Ecuador from 119 to 129.

DNA barcodes reveal 63 overlooked species of Canadian beetles (Insecta, Coleoptera).

Abstract: This study demonstrates the power of DNA barcoding to detect overlooked and newly arrived taxa. Sixty-three species of Coleoptera representing 25 families are studied based on DNA barcode data and morphological analysis of the barcoded specimens. Three of the species involve synonymies or previous taxonomic confusion in North America, while the first Canadian records are published for 60 species. Forty-two species are adventive in North America, and 40 of these adventive species originate from the Palaearctic region. Three genera are recorded from the Nearctic region for the first time: Coelostoma Brulle, 1835 (Hydrophilidae), Scydmoraphes Reitter, 1891 (Staphylinidae), and Lythraria Bedel, 1897 (Chrysomelidae). Two new synonymies are established: Mycetoporus triangulatus Campbell, 1991 (Staphylinidae) is a junior synonym of Mycetoporus reichei Pandelle, 1869, syn. nov. while Bledius philadelphicus Fall, 1919 (Staphylinidae) is a junior synonym of Bledius gallicus (Gravenhorst, 1806), syn. nov. The previously suggested move of Ctenicera tigrina (Fall, 1901) to the genus Pseudanostirus Dolin, 1964 (Elateridae) is formalized, resulting in Pseudanostirus tigrinus (Fall, 1901), comb. nov.

Sinopyrophorinae, a new subfamily of Elateridae (Coleoptera, Elateroidea) with the first record of a luminous click beetle in Asia and evidence for multiple origins of bioluminescence in Elateridae

Abstract: The new subfamily Sinopyrophorinae within Elateridae is proposed to accommodate a bioluminescent species, Sinopyrophorusschimmeli Bi & Li, gen. et sp. nov., recently discovered in Yunnan, China. This lineage is morphologically distinguished from other click-beetle subfamilies by the strongly protruding frontoclypeal region, which is longitudinally carinate medially, the pretarsal claws without basal setae, the hind wing venation with a well-defined wedge cell, the abdomen with seven (male) or six (female) ventrites, the large luminous organ on the abdominal sternite II, and the male genitalia with median lobe much shorter than parameres, and parameres arcuate, with the inner margin near its apical third dentate. Molecular phylogeny based on the combined 14 mitochondrial and two nuclear genes supports the placement of this taxon far from other luminescent click-beetle groups, which provides additional evidence for the multiple origin of bioluminescence in Elateridae. Illustrations of habitus and main diagnostic features of S.schimmeli Bi & Li, gen. et sp. nov. are provided, as well as the brief description of its luminescent behavior.

Two new species of the genus Milnesium Doyère, 1840 (Tardigrada, Apochela, Milnesiidae) from Madagascar.

Abstract: The knowledge of the diversity and distribution of tardigrades on Madagascar is rather poor. To date, only 13 tardigrade taxa have been reported from this region (including one Milnesium species). We examined 46 specimens belonging to two new-to-science species of the genus Milnesium described herein using an integrative approach, including classical morphology and molecular marker (COI, ITS-2 and 28S rRNA) analysis. The species were found in two moss and lichen samples collected in the Ivohibory forest in Fianarantsoa Province. Milnesium matheusisp. nov., with claw configuration [3-3]-[3-3] and rather wide buccal tube, morphologically is most similar to: Mil. beatae Roszkowska, Ostrowska & Kaczmarek, 2015, Mil. bohleberi Bartels, Nelson, Kaczmarek & Michalczyk, 2014, Mil. eurystomum Maucci, 1991, Mil. shilohae Meyer, 2015 and Mil. tumanovi Pilato, Sabella & Lisi, 2016; however, it differs from these by morphometric characteristics. Milnesium wrightaesp. nov., by the presence of four points on secondary branches of claws IV, is most similar to Mil. quadrifidum Nederstrom, 1919. However, Mil. wrightaesp. nov. differs from Mil. quadrifidum by claw configuration ([4-4]-[4-4] in Mil. quadrifidum vs. [3-3]-[4-4] in Mil. wrightaesp. nov.), but also by the position of the fourth points on secondary branches of claws IV, which are located near the base of the claw in the new species and near the top of the claw in Mil. quadrifidum. Genotypic analysis showed that Mil. matheusisp. nov. is most similar to Milnesium sp. (28S rRNA), Mil. variefidum (COI) and Mil. t. tardigradum (ITS-2) while Mil. wrightaesp. nov. is most similar to Milnesium sp. (28S rRNA), Mil. variefidum (COI) and Mil. matheusi (ITS-2). Five Milnesium taxa are recorded from the African region, including the two new species from Madagascar reported in this study.

Acari of Canada

Abstract: Summaries of taxonomic knowledge are provided for all acarine groups in Canada, accompanied by references to relevant publications, changes in classification at the family level since 1979, and notes on biology relevant to estimating their diversity. Nearly 3000 described species from 269 families are recorded in the country, representing a 56% increase from the 1917 species reported by Lindquist et al. (1979). An additional 42 families are known from Canada only from material identified to family- or genus-level. Of the total 311 families known in Canada, 69 are newly recorded since 1979, excluding apparent new records due solely to classification changes. This substantial progress is most evident in Oribatida and Hydrachnidia, for which many regional checklists and family-level revisions have been published. Except for recent taxonomic leaps in a few other groups, particularly of symbiotic mites (Astigmata: feather mites; Mesostigmata: Rhinonyssidae), knowledge remains limited for most other taxa, for which most species records are unpublished and may require verification. Taxonomic revisions are greatly needed for a large majority of families in Canada. Based in part on species recorded in adjacent areas of the USA and on hosts known to be present here, we conservatively estimate that nearly 10,000 species of mites occur in Canada, but the actual number could be 15,000 or more. This means that at least 70% of Canada's mite fauna is yet unrecorded. Much work also remains to match existing molecular data with species names, as less than 10% of the ~7500 Barcode Index Numbers for Canadian mites in the Barcode of Life Database are associated with named species. Understudied hosts and terrestrial and aquatic habitats require investigation across Canada to uncover new species and to clarify geographic and ecological distributions of known species.

Abyssal fauna of polymetallic nodule exploration areas, eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Annelida: Capitellidae, Opheliidae, Scalibregmatidae, and Travisiidae.

Abstract: We present DNA taxonomy of abyssal polychaete worms from the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), central Pacific Ocean, using material collected as part of the Abyssal Baseline (ABYSSLINE) environmental survey cruises 'AB01' and 'AB02' to the UK Seabed Resources Ltd (UKSRL) polymetallic nodule exploration contract area 'UK-1', the Ocean Mineral Singapore exploration contract area 'OMS-1' and an Area of Particular Environmental Interest, 'APEI-6'. This is the fourth paper in a series to provide regional taxonomic data with previous papers reporting on Cnidaria, Echinodermata and Mollusca. Taxonomic data are presented for 23 species from 85 records within four polychaete families: Capitellidae, Opheliidae, Scalibregmatidae and Travisiidae, identified by a combination of morphological and genetic data, including molecular phylogenetic analyses. Two taxa (genetically separated from one another) morphologically matched the same known cosmopolitan species, Ophelina abranchiata that has a type locality in a different ocean basin and depth from where no genetic data was available. These two species were assigned the open nomenclature 'cf.' as a precautionary approach in taxon assignments to avoid over-estimating species ranges. Twelve (12) taxa are here described as new species, Ammotrypanella keenani sp. nov., Ammotrypanella kersteni sp. nov., Ophelina curli sp. nov., Ophelina ganae sp. nov., Ophelina juhazi sp. nov., Ophelina martinezarbizui sp. nov., Ophelina meyerae sp. nov., Ophelina nunnallyi sp. nov., Oligobregma brasierae sp. nov., Oligobregma tani sp. nov., Oligobregma whaleyi sp. nov. and Travisia zieglerae sp. nov. For the remaining nine taxa, we have determined them to be potentially new species, for which we make the raw data, imagery and vouchers available for future taxonomic study. The CCZ is a region undergoing intense exploration for potential deep-sea mineral extraction from polymetallic nodules. We present these data to facilitate future taxonomic and environmental impact study by making both data and voucher materials available through curated and accessible biological collections.

Three new subfamilies of skipper butterflies (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae).

Abstract: We obtained and analyzed whole genome data for more than 160 representatives of skipper butterflies (family Hesperiidae) from all known subfamilies, tribes and most distinctive genera. We found that two genera, Katreus Watson, 1893 and Ortholexis Karsch, 1895, which are sisters, are well-separated from all other major phylogenetic lineages and originate near the base of the Hesperiidae tree, prior to the origin of some subfamilies. Due to this ancient origin compared to other subfamilies, this group is described as Katreinae Grishin, subfam. n. DNA sequencing of primary type specimens reveals that Ortholexismelichroptera Karsch, 1895 is not a female of Ortholexisholocausta Mabille, 1891, but instead a female of Ortholexisdimidia Holland, 1896. This finding establishes O.dimidia as a junior subjective synonym of O.melichroptera. Furthermore, we see that Chamunda Evans, 1949 does not originate within Pyrginae Burmeister, 1878, but, unexpectedly, forms an ancient lineage of its own at the subfamily rank: Chamundinae Grishin, subfam. n. Finally, a group of two sister genera, Barca de Niceville, 1902 and Apostictopterus Leech, [1893], originates around the time Hesperiinae Latreille, 1809 have split from their sister clade. A new subfamily Barcinae Grishin, subfam. n. sets them apart from all other Hesperiidae.

Distribution and current conservation status of the Mexican Goodeidae (Actinopterygii, Cyprinodontiformes).

Abstract: The current distribution and abundance of the 40 species of Goodeidae fishes known from Mexico are described, and a total of 84 Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) is designated within these species. Two species and four ESUs are likely extinct with no captive populations, and three species and eight ESUs are probably extinct in the wild but have at least one captive population in Mexico, the United States, or Europe. Of the 35 extant species, the analyses indicate that nine should be considered as critically endangered, 14 as endangered, nine as vulnerable, and only three as least concern. Twenty-seven of these species have experienced substantial declines in distribution or abundance or both since 2000, and only eight appear to have remained relatively stable. Of the 72 extant ESUs, our analyses indicate that 29 should be considered as critically endangered, 21 as endangered, 18 as vulnerable, and only four as least concern. Brief summaries of the historic and current distributions and abundance of each species are provided, as well as ESU. Three strategies are recommended to conserve Mexican goodeids: protect the best-quality remaining habitats where goodeids still persist, restore degraded habitat and re-introduce species or ESUs where practical, and establish captive populations to ensure continued survival of the many species and ESUs that will almost inevitably go extinct in the coming years. Limited resources require cooperation and collaboration between scientists, conservationists, and aquarium hobbyists for successful captive maintenance.

Morphometric analysis of fossil bumble bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombini) reveals their taxonomic affinities.

Abstract: Bumble bees (Bombus spp.) are a widespread corbiculate lineage (Apinae: Corbiculata: Bombini), mostly found among temperate and alpine ecosystems. Approximately 260 species have been recognized and grouped recently into a simplified system of 15 subgenera. Most of the species are nest-building and primitively eusocial. Species of Bombus have been more intensely studied than any other lineages of bees with the exception of the honey bees. However, most bumble bee fossils are poorly described and documented, making their placement relative to other Bombus uncertain. A large portion of the known and presumed bumble bee fossils were re-examined in an attempt to better understand their affinities with extant Bombini. The taxonomic affinities of fossil specimens were re-assessed based on morphological features and previous descriptions, and for 13 specimens based on geometric morphometrics of forewing shape. None of the specimens coming from Eocene and Oligocene deposits were assigned within the contemporary shape space of any subgenus of Bombus. It is shown that Calyptapis florissantensis Cockerell, 1906 (Eocene-Oligocene boundary, Florissant shale, Colorado, USA) and Oligobombus cuspidatus Antropov, 2014 (Late Eocene, Bembridge Marls) likely belong to stem-group Bombini. Bombus anacolus Zhang, 1994, B. dilectus Zhang, 1994, B. luianus Zhang, 1990 (Middle Miocene, Shanwang Formation), as well as B. vetustus Rasnitsyn & Michener, 1991 (Miocene, Botchi Formation) are considered as species inquirenda. In the Miocene, affinities of fossils with derived subgenera of Bombus s. l. increased, and some are included in the shape space of contemporary subgenera: Cullumanobombus (i.e., B. pristinus Unger, 1867, B. randeckensis Wappler & Engel, 2012, and B. trophonius Prokop, Dehon, Michez & Engel, 2017), Melanobombus (i.e., B. cerdanyensis Dehon, De Meulemeester & Engel, 2014), and Mendacibombus (i.e., B. beskonakensis (Nel & Petrulevicius, 2003), new combination), agreeing with previous estimates of diversification.

An annotated type catalogue of seven genera of operculate land snails (Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoridae) in the Natural History Museum, London.

Abstract: The collection of the seven cyclophorid snail genera housed in the Natural History Museum, London (NHM), includes 95 available species-level names belonging to the genera Pterocyclos Benson, 1832, Cyclotus Swainson, 1840, Myxostoma Troschel, 1847, Rhiostoma Benson, 1860, Scabrina Blanford, 1863, Crossopoma Martens, 1891, and Pearsonia Kobelt, 1902. Lectotypes are here designated for twelve available species-level names to stabilise existing the nomenclature. A complete catalogue of these types, including colour photographs, is provided for the first time. After examining these type specimens, an unpublished manuscript name was found and is described herein as Pterocyclosanamullayensis Sutcharit & Panha, sp. n.

Description of two cryptic species of the Amolopsricketti group (Anura, Ranidae) from southeastern China.

Abstract: Two cryptic species, which were previously reported as Amolopsricketti, are revealed on the basis of significant morphological and genetic divergences. Amolopssinensis sp. n. from central Guangdong, northeastern Guangxi and southwestern Hunan can be distinguished by the longitudinal glandular folds on the skin of the shoulders and other character combinations. Amolopsyatseni sp. n. from the coastal hills of west Guangdong can be distinguished by the dense tiny round translucent, or white, spines on the dorsal skin of the body, dorsal and dorsolateral skin of the limbs, and other character combinations. The phylogenetic interrelationships of the A.ricketti group have been inferred as (A.wuyiensis + A.ricketti) + (A.yunkaiensis + (A.albispinus + (A.sinensis sp. n. + A.yatseni sp. n.))). This work indicates that the current records of A.ricketti might be a species complex composed of multiple species, and further work is needed to figure out this puzzle.

Developing a standardized list of entomological collection methods for use in databases.

Abstract: The current natural history specimen databasing paradigm focuses on standardizing occurrence data: where and when a specimen was collected. In order to gather more information about a particular species, researchers also must know how to encounter, and possibly collect, the species. For entomological specimens, collection method terminology written on labels has not been standardized, and perhaps should not be; however, use of a broad-scale collection method framework may aid in communication among researchers especially within the context of public databases. Three main categories of collection methods are proposed: active human collecting; active specimen orientation; and passive specimen collection and/or concentration. General categories contain more specific sub-categories and so on. A bibliography of useful works describing entomological collection and curation methods (e.g., "How to make an insect collection") is provided.

A check list and population trends of invasive amphibians and reptiles in Taiwan

Abstract: Invasive species have impacted biodiversity all around the world. Among various ecosystems, islands are most vulnerable to these impacts due to their high ratio of endemism, highly specialized adaptation, and isolated and unique fauna. As with other subtropical islands, Taiwan faces constant risk of biological invasions and is currently ranked as one of the countries most affected by invasive amphibians and reptiles. In this paper, a comprehensive checklist of all known exotic amphibians and reptiles is provided, including twelve species which have successfully colonized Taiwan and six species with a controversial status. We provide an update on the knowledge of all these species including their distribution, colonization history, threats to native animals, and population trends based on literature records, fauna surveys, and data collected during invasive species eradication and control programs. A list of species with high invasive potentials is also provided. This study reports, for the first time, a comprehensive survey of invasive herpetofauna in Taiwan, which should provide a valuable reference to other regions which might suffer from similar invasion risk.

One hundred and three new species of Trigonopterus weevils from Sulawesi.

Abstract: The genus Trigonopterus Fauvel, 1862 is highly diverse in Melanesia, the Moluccas, and the Sunda Islands. Only one species, Trigonopterusfulvicornis (Pascoe, 1885) was so far recorded from Sulawesi. Based on focused field-work the fauna from Sulawesi and nearby islands is here revised. We redescribe T.allotopus Riedel newly recorded for Sulawesi and describe an additional 103 new species: T.abnormissp. n., T.adspersussp. n., T.ambangensissp. n., T.ampanensissp. n., T.analissp. n., T.arachnobassp. n., T.armipessp. n., T.artemissp. n., T.asterixsp. n., T.barbipessp. n., T.bonthainensissp. n., T.carinirostrissp. n., T.castaneipennissp. n., T.celebensissp. n., T.cirripessp. n., T.collarissp. n., T.costatulussp. n., T.curvipessp. n., T.crenulatussp. n., T.crickisp. n., T.darwinisp. n., T.ejaculatoriussp. n., T.fuscipessp. n., T.gracilipessp. n., T.hebertisp. n., T.hirsutussp. n., T.humilissp. n., T.hypocritasp. n., T.idefixsp. n., T.impressicollissp. n., T.incendiumsp. n., T.incognitussp. n., T.indigenussp. n., T.inhonestussp. n., T.invalidussp. n., T.jasminaesp. n., T.klabatensissp. n., T.kolakensissp. n., T.kotamobagensissp. n., T.laevigatussp. n., T.lamprossp. n., T.latipennissp. n., T.lompobattangensissp. n., T.luwukensissp. n., T.mahawuensissp. n., T.manadensissp. n., T.mangkutanensissp. n., T.matalibaruensissp. n., T.mesaisp. n., T.minahassaesp. n., T.moatensissp. n., T.modoindingensissp. n., T.nanussp. n., T.nitidulussp. n., T.obelixsp. n., T.ovalipunctatussp. n., T.ovatulussp. n., T.pagaranganensissp. n., T.palopensissp. n., T.paracollarissp. n., T.paupersp. n., T.pendolensissp. n., T.posoensissp. n., T.prismaesp. n., T.procurtussp. n., T.pseudallotopussp. n., T.pseudanalis, sp. n., T.pseudovatulussp. n., T.pseudovalipunctatussp. n., T.pseudofulvicornissp. n., T.pseudomanadensissp. n., T.pseudosimulanssp. n., T.pumilussp. n., T.rantepaosp. n., T.reticulatussp. n., T.rhombiformissp. n., T.rotundatussp. n., T.rotundulussp. n., T.rudissp. n., T.rufipessp. n., T.sampunensissp. n., T.sampuragensissp. n., T.satyrussp. n., T.scabripessp. n., T.scaphiformissp. n., T.scitulussp. n., T.selayarensissp. n., T.serripessp. n., T.seticnemissp. n., T.silvicolasp. n., T.squalidulussp. n., T.sulawesiensissp. n., T.suturatussp. n., T.tatorensissp. n., T.tenuipessp. n., T.tomohonensissp. n., T.torajasp. n., T.vicinussp. n., T.viduussp. n., T.volcanorumsp. n., T.wangiwangiensissp. n., T.watsonisp. n., and T.yodasp. n. All new species are authored by the taxonomist-in-charge, Alexander Riedel.

The tremendous diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in Indonesia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae).

Abstract: Material collected between 2010 and 2014 on the Indonesian islands of Sumatra, Bali, Sumba, Sumbawa, Sulawesi, and Seram unveiled the enormous diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in this country. Five species were reported from Indonesia previously (L. fulmeki (Ulmer), L. obscurum (Ulmer), L. necopinatum (Muller-Liebenau), L. ulmeri (Muller-Liebenau), and L. boettgeri (Ulmer)); all were described from adults only and no species were previously known at larval stage. We identified 18 new species by integrative taxonomy using genetic distance (COI, Kimura-2-parameter) and morphology, and they are described and illustrated based on their larvae. Another species, L. multus (Muller-Liebenau) from Malaysia, was also found in Indonesia, increasing the total number of species in Indonesia to 24. Seven morpho-groups of species are proposed based on morphological characters and a key to the larvae of all species from Indonesia and adjacent countries is provided. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 123. The examination of the new species allowed us to slightly modify the generic attributes of the larvae. The interspecific K2P distances are usually between 11% and 24%, the intraspecific distances are usually between 0% and 3%. The remarkable richness of the genus in Indonesia is discussed.

Description of six new species of the subgenus Panophrys within the genus Megophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from southeastern China based on molecular and morphological data.

Abstract: The diversity of the subgenus Panophrys within the genus Megophrys has been revealed to be extremely underestimated from southeastern China. Herpetological surveys coupled with extensive sampling in a longitudinal mountain belt located in southeastern China resulted in the discoveries of six new species of the subgenus Panophrys. Furthermore, the new discoveries support the findings of "micro-endemism", "sympatric phenomenon" and "sympatric but distant phylogenetically" which appear to be common among Panophrys species, and also indicates that the Asian horned toads would be good candidates for studies on speciation and biogeography, and additionally emphasizes the conservation difficulties of these toads.

Hymenoptera of Canada.

Abstract: A summary of the numbers of species of the 83 families of Hymenoptera recorded in Canada is provided. In total, 8757 described species are recorded compared to approximately 6000 in 1979, which is a 46% increase. Of the families recognized in 1979, three have been newly recorded to Canada since the previous survey: Anaxyelidae (Anaxyleoidea), Liopteridae (Cynipoidea), and Mymarommatidae (Mymarommatoidea). More than 18,400 BINs of Canadian Hymenoptera are available in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (Ratnasingham and Hebert 2007) implying that nearly 9650 undescribed or unrecorded species of Hymenoptera may be present in Canada (and more than 10,300 when taking into account additional species that have not been DNA barcoded). The estimated number of unrecorded species is very similar to that of 1979 (10,637 species), but the percentage of the fauna described/recorded has increased from 36% in 1979 to approximately 45% in 2018. Summaries of the state of knowledge of the major groups of Hymenoptera are presented, including brief comments on numbers of species, biology, changes in classification since 1979, and relevant taxonomic references.

Six years of fruit fly surveys in Bangladesh: a new species, 33 new country records and discovery of the highly invasive Bactrocera carambolae (Diptera, Tephritidae).

Abstract: We engaged in six years of snap-shot surveys for fruit flies in rural environments and ten protected forest areas of Bangladesh, using traps baited with male lures (cue-lure, methyl eugenol, zingerone). Our work has increased the recorded number of species of Tephritidae in the country from seven to 37. We summarize these surveys and report eight new country occurrence records, and a new species (Zeugodacus madhupuri Leblanc & Doorenweerd, sp. nov.) is described. The highlight among the new records is the discovery, and significant westward range extension, of Bactrocera carambolae Drew & Hancock, a major fruit pest detected in the Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions. We rectify the previously published erroneous record of Bactrocera bogorensis (Hardy), which was based on a misidentification of Zeugodacus diaphorus (Hendel). We also report the occurrence in Bangladesh of nine other Tephritidae, the rearing of three primary fruit fly parasitoids from Zeugodacus, and records of non-target attraction to fruit fly lures.