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Bibliography on: DNA Barcoding

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RJR: Recommended Bibliography 30 Oct 2025 at 01:47 Created: 

DNA Barcoding

Wikipedia: DNA Barcoding is a method of species identification using a short section of DNA from a specific gene or genes. The premise of DNA barcoding is that by comparison with a reference library of such DNA sections (also called "sequences"), an individual sequence can be used to uniquely identify an organism to species, just as a supermarket scanner uses the familiar black stripes of the UPC barcode to identify an item in its stock against its reference database. These "barcodes" are sometimes used in an effort to identify unknown species or parts of an organism, simply to catalog as many taxa as possible, or to compare with traditional taxonomy in an effort to determine species boundaries.

Different gene regions are used to identify the different organismal groups using barcoding. The most commonly used barcode region for animals and some protists is a portion of the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI or COX1) gene, found in mitochondrial DNA. Other genes suitable for DNA barcoding are the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rRNA often used for fungi and RuBisCO used for plants. Microorganisms are detected using different gene regions.

See also: What is DNA barcoding? or DNA barcoding workflows

Created with PubMed® Query: DNA[TIAB] barcode[TIAB] OR barcodes[TIAB] OR barcoding[TIAB] NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

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RevDate: 2025-10-29
CmpDate: 2025-10-29

Munir M, Naeem M, Wu X, et al (2025)

Morpho-Molecular Identification and Pathogenic Characterization of Fusarium and Colletotrichum Species Associated with Intercropped Soybean Pod Decay.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(10): pii:pathogens14101020.

The fruiting stage of soybean (Glycine max L.) is critical for determining both its yield and quality, thereby influencing global production. While some studies have provided partial explanations for the occurrence of Fusarium species on soybean seeds and pods, the fungal diversity affecting soybean pods in Sichuan Province, a major soybean cultivation region in Southwestern China, remains inadequately understood. In this study, 182 infected pods were collected from a maize-soybean relay strip intercropping system. A total of 10 distinct pod-infecting fungal genera (132 isolates) were identified, and their pathogenic potential on soybean seeds and pods was evaluated. Using morphological characteristics and DNA barcode markers, we identified 43 Fusarium isolates belonging to 8 species, including F. verticillioides, F. incarnatum, F. equiseti, F. proliferatum, F. fujikuroi, F. oxysporum, F. chlamydosporum, and F. acutatum through the analysis of the translation elongation factor gene (EF1-α) and RNA polymerases II second largest subunit (RPB2) gene. Multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, incorporating the Internal Transcribed Spacer (rDNA ITS), β-tubulin (β-tubulin), Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GADPH), Chitin Synthase 1 (CHS-1), Actin (ACT), Beta-tubulin II (TUB2), and Calmodulin (CAL) genes distinguished 37 isolates as 6 Colletotrichum species, including C. truncatum, C. karstii, C. cliviicola, C. plurivorum, C. boninense, and C. fructicola. Among these, F. proliferatum and C. fructicola were the most dominant species, representing 20.93% and 21.62% of the isolation frequency, respectively. Pathogenicity assays revealed significant damage from both Fusarium and Colletotrichum isolates on soybean pods and seeds, with varying isolation frequencies. Of these, F. proliferatum, F. acutatum, and F. verticillioides caused the most severe symptoms. Similarly, within Colletotrichum genus, C. fructicola was the most pathogenic, followed by C. truncatum, C. karstii, C. cliviicola, C. plurivorum, and C. boninense. Notably, F. acutatum, C. cliviicola, C. boninense, and C. fructicola were identified for the first time as pathogens of soybean pods under the maize-soybean strip intercropping system in Southwestern China. These findings highlight emerging virulent pathogens responsible for soybean pod decay and provide a valuable foundation for understanding the pathogen population during the later growth stages of soybean.

RevDate: 2025-10-29
CmpDate: 2025-10-29

Hu J, Wei H, Jiang Y, et al (2025)

DNA Barcoding in Meat Authentication: Principles, Applications, and Future Perspectives.

Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 14(20): pii:foods14203522.

DNA barcoding technology, as a species identification method based on specific DNA sequence variations, has been widely applied in meat product authentication in recent years. This paper reviews the technical principles, current applications, and comparative advantages of DNA barcoding in meat identification, particularly in contrast to traditional authentication methods. It further highlights the critical role of DNA barcoding in ensuring meat authenticity, enhancing food safety, and contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts. Furthermore, the paper explores the strategic implications and future trends of DNA barcoding in food regulation and ecological protection, demonstrating its practical feasibility and broad prospects in meat products. By highlighting its applications in detecting food adulteration and verifying species origin, this review aims to promote the safety and sustainable development of the meat industry while providing valuable insights for related fields. Ultimately, the implementation of DNA barcoding technology serves as a crucial safeguard for public food safety and health, aligning with the growing demand for improved food control systems.

RevDate: 2025-10-29
CmpDate: 2025-10-29

de Virgilio M, De Paola D, Selvaggi M, et al (2025)

DNA Barcoding and Analysis of Nutritional Properties as a Tool for Enhancing Traceability of Anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus L.) Fished in the Italian Southern Adriatic Sea.

Genes, 16(10): pii:genes16101219.

Background: Anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus L.) are a component of the Mediterranean diet and among the most fished species. Despite Italian consumers showing a strong preference and willingness to pay more for locally caught anchovies, cases of mislabeling with non-local or different species have been documented. Molecular techniques like DNA barcoding offer reliable species identification, even in processed products, where morphological traits are no longer detectable. This pilot study applied a DNA barcoding technique targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene to authenticate anchovies caught in the Italian Southern Adriatic Sea. Objectives: The study evaluated seasonal variations in the chemical and nutritional composition of anchovies, particularly the fatty acid profiles, highlighting their health benefits. Methods: During 2021, two fish samplings of anchovies were conducted per season from two fishing areas in Southern Adriatic Sea, one sample was used for mitochondrial DNA analyses, the other was used for morphometric measurements, physical, bromatological and chemical analyses. Results: Fish collected in summer showed higher total weight and edible yield relative to those fished in winter (p < 0.05). Anchovies fished in summer contained the highest concentration of proteins (p < 0.05) as compared to those caught during winter and autumn, while, in turn, they showed the highest amount of fat (p < 0.01). Fillets from anchovies fished during spring and summer contained a greater (p < 0.05) concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and n-3 fatty acids than samples collected in autumn and winter. Conclusions: This study paves the way for further investigation to refine and validate the genetic identification and nutritional features of anchovies caught in the Italian Southern Adriatic Sea and marketed to consumers.

RevDate: 2025-10-29
CmpDate: 2025-10-29

Guo X, Bai Y, Ruan J, et al (2025)

Comparative Analysis of Artemisia Plastomes, with Implications for Revealing Phylogenetic Incongruence and Evidence of Hybridization.

Genes, 16(10): pii:genes16101145.

Background: With the advancement of the next-generation sequencing technology, it is becoming more cost-effective to obtain plastomes from genome skimming data at shallow sequencing depth. Artemisia is a species-rich genus, comprising species of great medicinal or economic value. However, plastomes of Artemisia have not been thoroughly and comparatively analyzed, and the phylogenetic relationships within the genus are still not well resolved. Methods: In this study, 19 Artemisia plastomes were obtained from genome skimming data. Together with the plastomes retrieved from the public database, comparative analyses of their structure were also conducted. We further used sequences of plastomes and nuclear internal transcribed spacer sequences to conduct phylogenetic reconstruction. Results: The Artemisia plastomes are conserved in terms of structure, GC content, gene number, and order. Some regions, i.e., accD, ccsA, ndhE, ycf1, ccsA-ndhD, trnG[GCC]-trnfM[CAU], were found to be variable and could be chosen as candidates for the DNA barcode. Phylogenetic analyses also confirmed that the four subgenera of Artemisia are not monophyletic. The incongruence between plastid and nuclear phylogenies indicated that hybridization events have occurred during the evolution of the genus. Conclusions: Reconstructed phylogenies using plastome sequences and nuclear internal transcribed spacers improved our understanding of the phylogenetic backbone of Artemisia. In the future, more taxa of Artemisia should be sequenced and analyzed to clarify the evolutionary history.

RevDate: 2025-10-28

Laojun S, Changbunjong T, Kamoltham T, et al (2025)

An integrative approach to DNA barcoding, geometric morphometrics, and machine learning for field identification of Culex mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae), with implications for vector-borne disease surveillance.

Acta tropica pii:S0001-706X(25)00355-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Culex mosquitoes are of considerable medical and veterinary importance, acting as vectors of arboviruses such as Japanese encephalitis, Rift Valley fever, and West Nile virus, as well as the filarial parasite Wuchereria bancrofti. Accurate identification of Culex species, however, remains challenging due to their close morphological similarity, frequent damage to field-collected specimens, and the limited availability of trained taxonomists. To address these challenges, this study employed an integrative framework combining DNA barcoding, wing geometric morphometrics (GM), and Random Forest (RF) to improve the identification of 12 Culex species (Cx. bicornutus, Cx. bitaeniorhynchus, Cx. brevipalpis, Cx. fuscocephala, Cx. gelidus, Cx. hutchinsoni, Cx. nigropunctatus, Cx. pseudovishnui, Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx. sinensis, Cx. sitiens, and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus) in Thailand. DNA barcoding successfully validated the morphological identifications, with nucleotide sequences from representative specimens showing strong concordance with the GenBank and Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) databases (≥97-100%), confirming the reliability of morphological diagnoses. Complementarily, wing GM demonstrated stronger discriminatory power: Mahalanobis distance analysis revealed all species to be significantly different (p < 0.05), and a cross-validated reclassification test achieved 82.18% performance with an adjusted total accuracy of 80%. For field identification of unknown specimens, both Mahalanobis distance and RF produced comparable results, yielding very high accuracy (80%-100%) for eight species. Overall, the integration of DNA barcoding, wing GM, and machine learning offers a robust and practical framework for strengthening mosquito-borne disease surveillance. Nonetheless, as each method has distinct strengths and limitations, their application should be carefully adapted to specific epidemiological and operational contexts.

RevDate: 2025-10-28

Zhang X, Wu Z, He H, et al (2025)

3D-generation of high-purity midbrain dopaminergic progenitors and lineage-guided refinement of grafts supports Parkinson's disease cell therapy.

Cell stem cell pii:S1934-5909(25)00369-8 [Epub ahead of print].

The low in vivo yield of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons and uncertain lineage fates of donor cells following transplantation impede clinical application of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based cell therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD). We developed a three-dimensional (3D) differentiation method, SphereDiff, to generate high-purity mDA progenitors (mDAPs), leading to a significant enrichment of mDA neurons post transplantation. Grafted mDA neurons fully restored dopamine levels and corrected motor deficits in PD model mice. Single-cell spatial transcriptomics revealed a patterned distribution of mDA neuron subtypes and glial cells. Using cross-transplantation single-cell split barcoding (TX-SISBAR), we elucidated the clonal lineage fates of donor cells post transplantation, revealing the mDA neuron and astrocyte fates of mDAPs and glutamatergic neuron fates of diencephalic progenitors. Leveraging these lineage insights, we further refined SphereDiff and eliminated off-target lineage cells. Producing high in vivo efficacy, lineage-defined donor cells supports safer and more effective PD cell therapy in regenerative medicine.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Zangl L, Fischer I, Sittenthaler M, et al (2025)

A DNA Barcode Inventory of Austrian Dragonfly and Damselfly (Insecta: Odonata) Species.

Insects, 16(10):.

Dragonflies and damselflies are important indicator species for quality and health of (semi-)aquatic habitats. Hitherto, 78 species of Odonata have been reported for Austria. Ecological data, Red List assessments, and a dragonfly association index exist, but population- and species-level genetic data are largely lacking. In this study, we establish a comprehensive reference DNA barcode library for Austrian dragonflies and damselflies based on the standard barcoding marker COI. Because of the increasing significance of environmental DNA (eDNA) analyses, we also sequenced a segment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, a marker often used in eDNA metabarcoding approaches. In total, we provide 786 new COI barcode sequences and 867 new 16S sequences for future applications. Sequencing success was >90 percent for both markers. Identification success was similar for both markers and exceeded 90 percent. Difficulties were only encountered in the genera Anax Leach, 1815, Chalcolestes Kennedy, 1920, Coenagrion Kirby, 1890 and Somatochlora Selys, 1871, with low interspecific genetic distances and, consequently, BIN (barcode index number) sharing. In Anax, however, individual sequences clustered together in species-specific groups in the COI tree. Irrespective of these challenges, the results suggest that both markers perform well within most odonate families in terms of sequencing success and species identification and can be used for reliably delimiting Austrian species, monitoring, and eDNA approaches.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Melone G, Andretta L, Guastaferro VM, et al (2025)

The Parasitoid Complex of Aleurothrixus floccosus (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in the Citrus Groves of Central-Southern Italy.

Insects, 16(10): pii:insects16101037.

The woolly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus, is likely a Neotropical origin species that has spread globally. Introduced to France in 1969, it became a pest in southern European citrus groves, first reported in Italy in 1974. Integrated management using biological control agents is crucial due to the low efficacy of chemical controls. Nymphs produce waxy filaments and honeydew, limiting insecticide contact. Natural enemies, especially from Neotropics, have been documented. The parasitoids Amitus spiniferus and Cales noacki were released in France in 1970 and later observed in Liguria, Italy. In the Campania region, C. noacki was first found on Aleurotuba jelineki in 1984 and this finding preceded the first report of A. floccosus in the same area. Subsequently, C. noacki was also introduced in other regions where it showed better adaptation throughout the Italian territory, reaching high parasitization levels on the woolly whitefly nymphs. After many years since the last field investigations, surveys in 2024-2025 in organic citrus groves in central and southern Italy identified additional parasitoids. Besides C. noacki and A. spiniferus, Eretmocerus paulistus and Signiphora xanthographa were found for the first time in Italy. Both species were originally described from the Neotropical ecozone. The aphelinid finding represents its first documented establishment in Italy, while the signiphorid one represents a new record for the European fauna. E. paulistus is a primary parasitoid, while S. xanthographa is a hyperparasitoid that can limit the effectiveness of other parasitoids. The interaction of these parasitoids resulted in high parasitism rates for A. floccosus nymphs. Preserving the current complexity of parasitoids in integrated pest management (IPM) programs could effectively control the woolly whitefly in central and southern Italy.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Thongsahuan S, Aupalee K, Yakoh A, et al (2025)

Integrative Description and Redescription of Black Fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) Species in the Simulium (Gomphostilbia) ceylonicum Species-Group from Thailand.

Insects, 16(10): pii:insects16101034.

Utilizing the COI barcoding approach, cryptic diversity has previously been detected within the morphologically recognized Simulium (Gomphostilbia) trangense Jitklang, Kuvangkadilok, Baimai, Takaoka & Adler, 2008 and S. (G.) sheilae Takaoka & Davies, 1995, of the S. (G.) ceylonicum species-group. Here, an unknown black fly species belonging to the S. ceylonicum species-group from southern Thailand was discovered and described as a new species, S. (G.) sipoense sp. nov. In addition, S. (G.) trangense is herein fully redescribed based on specimens collected from its type locality. Based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular data, the validity of the newly described S. sipoense sp. nov. and the redescribed S. trangense is confirmed. Comparative morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, inferred from COI sequences, suggest that the new species is conspecific with the species redescribed as S. trangense, using specimens collected from Malaysia, and is morphologically and phylogenetically closely related to S. sheilae, particularly to the specimens from Indonesia. The redescribed S. trangense is genetically highly similar or even identical to the species that was apparently misidentified as S. sheilae from southern and western Thailand, and is morphologically very similar to the new species, from which it is clearly distinguished by the relative length of the female claw tooth, shape of the male ventral plate, and color of the larval body. A detailed information on the morphological characteristics separates the new species, and the redescribed S. trangense from all other known species of the same species-group in Thailand and neighboring countries is provided. Further studies are warranted to clarify the taxonomic status of several cryptic species recognized within the morphologically defined S. trangense and S. sheilae.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Kasparek M, Schmid-Egger C, H Roberts (2025)

Cryptic and Non-Cryptic Diversity in Cleptoparasitic Bees of the Genus Stelis Panzer, 1806, Subgenus Stelidomorpha Morawitz, 1875, with a Description of New Species from the Arabian Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae).

Insects, 16(10): pii:insects16101030.

Cleptoparasitic bees of the subgenus Stelis (Stelidomorpha) occur mainly in the Mediterranean and Middle East. In this study, we elevate Stelis aegyptiaca ssp. canaria Warncke, 1992 to species rank (S. canaria Warncke, 1992) and describe two new species, Stelis alainensis Kasparek sp. nov. and Stelis surica Kasparek sp. nov., both discovered in Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Morphological differences between these species and their closest relatives (S. aegyptiaca Radoszkowski, 1876, S. pentelica Mavromoustakis, 1963, and S. nasuta (Latreille, 1809)) are corroborated by genetic divergence in the mitochondrial COI barcode region, with Kimura 2-parameter (K2P) distances of 7.6-15.2%. A notable case is Stelis nasuta, which shows deep genetic subdivision into three clusters: (1) Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, (2) southeastern France, Italy, and the Balkans, (3) eastern Balkans, Turkey, and the Levant. Moderate genetic K2P distances of 2.9-3.3% complicated species delimitation. Analyses with ABGD, ASAP, bPTP, and RESL algorithms consistently supported recognition of these lineages as putative species. As multivariate analyses of 11 morphometric traits revealed no consistent diagnostic differences, we treat these lineages as phylospecies rather than formal taxa. Our findings demonstrate that bee diversity in the Palaearctic remains underestimated, and that expanded sampling and integrative approaches continue to reveal hidden lineages.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Yetchom Fondjo JA, Wandji AC, Zahiri R, et al (2025)

Integrative Taxonomy Revealed Cryptic Diversity in the West African Grasshopper Genus Serpusia Karsch, 1891 (Orthoptera: Catantopinae).

Insects, 16(10): pii:insects16101020.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Despite their ecological significance, DNA barcoding data for African rainforest Orthoptera remain underrepresented globally, limiting progress in species discovery, biodiversity assessment, and conservation. This study aimed to generate molecular data for morphologically identified Serpusia Karsch, 1891 species to evaluate their taxonomic status.

METHODS: Specimens were collected from multiple sites in Cameroon and analyzed using DNA barcoding with COI-5P and 16S rDNA markers. Species delimitation was performed with Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery, and phylogenetic relationships were inferred using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference. Additionally, external morphology and the male phallic complex were examined.

RESULTS: Molecular analyses delineated 19 MOTUs, five corresponding to Serpusia opacula, seven to Serpusia succursor and the remainder to outgroups. Similarity-based assignments matched these MOTUs to 19 BINs. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed S. opacula and S. succursor as two genetically distinct clades, with the S. opacula group more closely related to Aresceutica Karsch, 1896 than to the S. succursor group. Accordingly, we established a new genus, Paraserpusia gen. nov., to accommodate S. succursor. Within the S. opacula group, five species are recognized: one previously described (S. opacula) and four new species (S. kennei sp. nov., S. missoupi sp. nov., S. seinoi sp. nov., and S. verhaaghi sp. nov.). The former S. succursor, now Paraserpusia succursor, is divided into six well-supported lineages, five of which are formally described here (P. hoeferi sp. nov., P. husemanni sp. nov., P. kekeunoui sp. nov., P. tamessei sp. nov., and P. tindoi sp. nov.). A haplotype network based on COI-5P sequences corroborates three major clades corresponding to the S. opacula group, the S. succursor group, and Aresceutica. Diagnostic morphological differences between Serpusia and Paraserpusia are consistently supported across characters.

CONCLUSIONS: This integrative approach reveals substantial hidden diversity within Serpusia and highlights the importance of combining molecular and morphological data to uncover and formally describe previously overlooked taxa.

RevDate: 2025-10-28

Yadav V, Tiwari AK, S Siddhanta (2025)

Generative Adversarial Network-driven high-resolution Raman spectral generation for accurate molecular feature recognition.

The Analyst [Epub ahead of print].

Through the probing of light-matter interactions, Raman spectroscopy provides invaluable insights into the composition, structure, and dynamics of materials. Obtaining such data from portable and cheap instruments is of immense practical relevance in several domains. Here, we propose the integration of a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to generate high-resolution Raman spectra with a portable hand-held spectrometer to facilitate concurrent spectral analysis and compound classification. Portable spectrometers generally have a lower resolution, and the Raman signal is usually buried under the background noise. The GAN-based model could not only generate high-resolution data but also reduce the spectral noise significantly. The generated data was further tested on a trained Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model for the classification of organic and pharmaceutical drug molecules, which was further used for spectral barcoding for the identification of unknown pharmaceutical drugs. This integrated system holds the potential for achieving accurate and real-time monitoring of noisy inputs to obtain high throughput output, thereby opening new avenues for applications in different domains. This synergy between spectroscopy and machine learning (ML) facilitates improved data processing, noise reduction, and feature extraction and paves the way for predictive modeling and automated decision-making using cost-effective portable devices.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

Wang Y, Salama YE, Amer KE, et al (2025)

Molecular and agronomic assessment of faba bean genotypes identifies resistance to Orobanche crenata infestation.

Scientific reports, 15(1):37535.

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.)(V. faba), an essential legume in Egypt, is severely impacted by broomrape (Orobanche crenata) (O. crenata), a parasitic weed that feeds on roots, making chemical control difficult without harming the crop. Three faba bean genotypes (Giza-843, Misr-3, and Sakha-3) along with nine pure lines were evaluated for resistance to broomrape in field trials (2021-2023) using gene barcoding (rbcL, rpoC1), ten Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers, and phonological and agronomic traits to identify resistance sources. Five faba bean genotypes-Giza 843, Lines 2, 7, 8, and 9-significantly reduced all broomrape growth and productivity traits. Line 5 had the lowest spike length, fresh and dry spike weight, number of spikes/m[2], and number of capsules/spike across both seasons. Genotypes Line 5, Line 6, and Misr 3 exhibited the highest seed yield per plot and hectare under normal and broomrape-infested conditions. Line 4 showed the lowest yield reductions, followed by Lines 9 and 8. The study generated 103 amplicons with a polymorphism rate of 51.46%, with SCoT-10 being the most informative marker, revealing 69% polymorphism and affecting 13 amplicons. Three faba bean genotypes showed significant genetic diversity, high seed output, and effectively reduced broomrape growth, highlighting their potential for genetic improvement and sustainable use in future research. Four faba bean genotypes, namely Sakha 3, Line 2, Line 4, and Line 9, are promising genotypes for combating broomrape infestation.

RevDate: 2025-10-28
CmpDate: 2025-10-28

van der Nol E, Haupt NA, Gao QQ, et al (2025)

Barcode-free hit discovery from massive libraries enabled by automated small molecule structure annotation.

Nature communications, 16(1):9479.

Affinity-selection platforms are powerful tools in early drug discovery, but current technologies - most notably DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) - are limited by synthesis complexity and incompatibility with nucleic acid-binding targets. We present a barcode-free self-encoded library (SEL) platform that enables direct screening of over half a million small molecules in a single experiment. SELs combine tandem mass spectrometry with custom software for automated structure annotation, eliminating the need for external tags for the identification of screening hits. We develop efficient, high-diversity synthesis protocols for a broad range of chemical scaffolds and benchmark the platform in affinity selections against carbonic anhydrase IX, identifying multiple nanomolar binders. We further apply SELs to flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) - a disease related DNA-processing enzyme inaccessible to DELs - and discover potent inhibitors. Taken together, screening barcode-free libraries of this scale all at once represents an important development, enables access to novel target classes, and promises substantial impact on both academic and industrial early drug discovery.

RevDate: 2025-10-27
CmpDate: 2025-10-27

Sosa SOSA, Andrade LF, Boyko CB, et al (2025)

Ocean Species Discoveries 13-27 - Taxonomic contributions to the diversity of Polychaeta, Mollusca and Crustacea.

Biodiversity data journal, 13:e160349.

BACKGROUND: Despite centuries of exploration, marine invertebrate biodiversity remains notably under-described. The majority of species in major marine groups are still unnamed, limiting our ability to understand and conserve ecosystems facing rapid environmental change. The rate of species discovery continues to outpace the formal process of species description. This gap creates an urgent need for streamlined, scalable approaches to taxonomy. The SENCKENBERG OCEAN SPECIES ALLIANCE was founded to help meet this challenge by facilitating global collaboration, offering technical support for species documentation and promoting efficient taxonomic publishing. Within this framework, Ocean Species Discoveries provides a forum for concise, but data-rich descriptions of marine invertebrate taxa. This second collection presents a diverse set of taxonomic contributions, based on recent and historical collections, including newly-described species and a re-description of a previously poorly-known taxon. The integrative documentation of the taxa treated herein was facilitated by the newly-established Discovery Laboratory at the Senckenberg Research Institute, the first service unit dedicated to supporting alpha taxonomists.

NEW INFORMATION: This article presents 14 new species and one re-description, two new genera, with taxa spanning three phyla. Newly-described taxa comprise two polychaete annelids: Nicon salinus Hernández-Alcántara & Dávila-Jiménez, sp. nov. and Spinther bohnorum Tilic & Rouse, sp. nov. Molluscs span four classes, with three polyplacophorans: Craspedochiton zefranki Vončina, sp. nov., Ferreiraella charazata Sigwart, sp. nov. and a new genus with type species Pycnodontochiton sinensis Sirenko, Zhang & Sigwart, gen. et sp. nov. and Pycnodontochiton tenuidontus (Saito and Okutani, 1990), comb. nov. The new monoplacophoran Veleropilina gretchenae Sigwart & Steger, sp. nov. is one of the first species of this class with a high-quality genome, published from the specimen that is now the holotype. The scaphopod Laevidentalium wiesei Sahlmann, 2012 represents a re-description and range extension and the bivalve Myonera aleutiana Machado & Sigwart, sp. nov. is the second bivalve including an anatomical description with non-invasive methods using micro-CT. Amongst crustaceans, there are two new amphipod species: Apotectonia senckenbergae Momtazi & Riehl, sp. nov. and Metharpinia hirsuta Souza-Filho & Andrade, sp. nov. Three isopod species were described, including the parasitic species Zeaione everta Boyko & Williams, sp. nov. that is the only species in the new genus Zeaione Boyko & Williams, gen. nov. and two free-living isopods: Haploniscus bulbosus Henseler, Knauber & Riehl, sp. nov. and Macrostylis peteri Riehl, sp. nov. Finally, there are two new tanaidaceans: Hoplopolemius olo Jóźwiak & Stępień, sp. nov. and Nesotanais thalassinus Stępień, sp. nov.The data used for the description of ten of the species and one of the new genera treated herein were wholly or partially obtained at the SOSA Discovery Laboratory using integrative methods including light and electron microscopy, confocal imaging, molecular barcoding and micro-CT scanning. Additional novel findings include the first record of the family Macrostylidae and the genus Macrostylis G. O. Sars, 1864 from Australian waters (Macrostylis peteri, sp. nov.) and novel host associations: Ferreiraella charazata, sp. nov. is documented with epibiotic tubeworms on its tail valves that are typical of this genus and the decapod Eucalliaxiopsis aequimana (Baker, 1907) is newly recorded as a host for bopyrid isopods, representing the first such record for the family Eucalliacidae.

RevDate: 2025-10-27
CmpDate: 2025-10-27

Cu HL, Nguyen HD, Pham LT, et al (2025)

Dataset on some chloroplast DNA regions of Strobilanthes bantonensis Lindau in Vietnam.

Data in brief, 62:111932.

Strobilanthes bantonensis is used in traditional medicine to treat gastritis, lung inflammation, high fever, heat reduction, and tumors. S. bantonensis is a plant species of scientific interest for the discovery of novel physiologically active compounds. The Strobilanthes species exhibit considerable morphological similarity and significant homoplasy, which together with deformed or powdered specimens, complicate further classification and distinction. This dataset contains the nucleotide sequences of PCR-specific primer pairs, the sequences of the trnE-trnT, psbK-psbI, ycf1, and matK regions isolated from the S. bantonensis, and the phylogenetic trees constructed from the sequences of these chloroplast DNA regions. In the phylogenetic trees constructed based on the two intergenic regions, trnE-trnT and psbK-psbI, and the matK gene region, S. bantonensis (CB_VN) is in the same subgroup as S. bantonensis (GenBank: MT576695.1), with bootstrap coefficients of 100 %, 100 %, and 98 %, respectively. Notably, in all three phylogenetic trees, S. bantonensis (CB_VN) is distributed in the monophyletic group (Strobilanthes). The trnE-trnT, psbK-psbI, and matK markers are viable candidates for DNA barcoding to assist in the identification of Strobilanthes species. The primer pairs trnE-trnT_F/trnE-trnT_R, psbK-psbI_F/psbK-psbI_R, ycf1_F/ycf1_R, and matK_F/matK_R can be used to amplify the trnE-trnT, psbK-psbI, ycf1, and matK regions from species of the Strobilanthes genus, Acanthaceae family and other higher plants. This dataset is the first report on the trnE-trnT, psbK-psbI, ycf1, and matK markers and the phylogeny based on these sequences of S. bantonensis.

RevDate: 2025-10-27

Chen W, Song S, Samanta A, et al (2025)

Growing functional artificial cytoskeletons in the viscoelastic confinement of DNA synthetic cells.

Nature chemical engineering, 2(10):627-639.

Intracellular structures, such as cytoskeletons, form within a crowded cytoplasm with viscoelastic properties. While self-assembly in crowding is well studied, the effects of coupled viscoelastic environments remain elusive. Here we engineer all-DNA synthetic cells (SCs) with tunable viscoelastic interiors to investigate this phenomenon. We introduce facile DNA barcode engineering to selectively enrich DNA tiles with adjustable concentrations into SCs to form artificial cytoskeletons coupled to their interior. Distinct mechanistic differences in assembly occur compared with solution or simple crowding. Furthermore, we develop light, molecular and metabolic switches to direct structure formation and create self-sorted SC populations with distinct artificial cytoskeletons. These cytoskeletons strengthen SCs and support stable contacts with mammalian cells. By bridging molecular-scale DNA nanotube assembly with mesoscale condensate structures, our SCs provide a versatile platform to investigate self-assembly under viscoelastic confinement and to harness subcellular architectures for emerging applications.

RevDate: 2025-10-27
CmpDate: 2025-10-27

Wen B, R Cheng (2025)

A taxonomic study of Gandaritis flavomacularia and related species (Lepidoptera, Geometridae), with description of a new species from western China.

ZooKeys, 1255:333-341.

The taxonomic status of Gandaritis flavomacularia has recently undergone revision. This study evaluates the validity of G. flavomacularia based on both morphological and molecular evidence. Furthermore, a new, closely related species, Gandaritis stueningi Wen & Cheng, sp. nov. from Sichuan, China, is described, supported by both molecular and morphological data. Key morphological characters, including the male and female genitalia, are illustrated and compared with those of three related species.

RevDate: 2025-10-27

Neo DM, Ben-Zion I, Bagnall J, et al (2025)

A Multiplexed, Target-Based Phenotypic Screening Platform Using CRISPR Interference in Mycobacterium abscessus.

ACS infectious diseases [Epub ahead of print].

The rise of difficult-to-treat Mycobacterium abscessus infections presents a growing clinical challenge due to the immense arsenal of intrinsic, inducible and acquired antibiotic resistance mechanisms that render many existing antibiotics ineffective against this pathogen. Moreover, the limited success in discovery of novel compounds that inhibit novel pathways underscores the need for innovative drug discovery strategies. Here, we report a strategic advancement in PROSPECT (PRimary screening Of Strains to Prioritize Expanded Chemistry and Targets), which is an antimicrobial discovery strategy that measures chemical-genetic interactions between small molecules and a pool of bacterial mutants, each depleted of a different essential protein target, to identify whole-cell active compounds with high sensitivity. Applying this modified strategy to M. abscessus, in contrast to previously described versions of PROSPECT which utilized protein degradation or promoter replacement strategies for generating engineered hypomorphic strains, here we leveraged CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) to more efficiently generate mutants each depleted of a different essential gene involved in cell wall synthesis or located at the bacterial surface. We applied this platform to perform a pooled PROSPECT pilot screen of a library of 782 compounds using CRISPRi guides as mutant barcodes. We identified a range of active hits, including compounds targeting InhA, a well-known mycobacterial target but under-explored in the M. abscessus space. The unexpected susceptibility to isoniazid, traditionally considered to be ineffective in M. abscessus, suggested a complex interplay of several intrinsic resistance mechanisms. While further complementary efforts will be needed to change the landscape of therapeutic options for M. abscessus, we propose that PROSPECT with CRISPRi engineering provides an increasingly accessible, high-throughput target-based phenotypic screening platform and thus represents an important step toward accelerating early stage drug discovery.

RevDate: 2025-10-25

Rodrigues Alves MT, Aluotto Scalzo Júnior SR, Nunes da Silva W, et al (2025)

High-Throughput in vivo and in vitro screening of lipid nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery to the brain.

International journal of pharmaceutics pii:S0378-5173(25)01115-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Gene therapy is a promising approach for correcting acquired or inherited brain diseases, nevertheless, faces a challenge in effectively delivering nucleic acids to the brain. Ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are commonly used as delivery systems, however they are often screened in in vitro settings which poorly replicates in vivo biological barriers. Here, we used a high-throughput in vivo and in vitro screening methods to assess a library of LNPs for nucleic acid delivery to neurons and brain tissue. LNPs were formulated via microfluidic mixing with different helper lipid and molar ratios, each containing a unique barcode DNA (b-DNA). LNPs were characterized and pooled for intravenous injection in C57BL/6 mice, and their biodistribution was assessed via next-generation sequencing. The top-performing LNPs, which exhibited higher b-DNA delivery to the brain, were further assessed for transfection efficiency in primary neurons using pDNA and mRNA. We established concentration-response curves, monitored protein expression overtime, and performed cell viability assays. Our results showed that DOPE-based LNPs outperformed other formulations in brain delivery and neuronal transfection. Additionally, altering the ionizable lipid in our top formulation to FDA-approved options did not improve neuronal transfection efficiency. Finally, our identified top performing LNP4 was able to induce luciferase expression in brain after intravenous administration. No signs of neurological damage, inflammation or behavioral impairments were observed. Our results demonstrate that our LNPs efficiently deliver nucleic acids to neurons and the brain, while our screening strategy accelerates the design of LNPs for brain gene therapy.

RevDate: 2025-10-24

Cardeñosa D, Grogan PA, DD Chapman (2025)

Bite, swab, identify: Validating molecular tools for detecting depredating shark species.

Journal of fish biology [Epub ahead of print].

Depredation, the partial or complete removal of hooked fish by predators, poses significant challenges for fisheries worldwide. Shark depredation in recreational fisheries has become a growing concern, influencing both fisheries management and public perceptions of shark conservation. Although DNA swabbing of depredated fish has been used to identify responsible shark species, the reliability of this technique remains uncertain due to potential environmental DNA (eDNA) contamination. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy of swab-based molecular identification by comparing genetic results to video-confirmed depredation events. Four depredation events were recorded in Jupiter, Florida, involving a bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas), lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris), great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran) and great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda). DNA analysis of swab samples from depredated fish correctly identified the responsible shark species in all three shark cases. Barracuda depredation yielded no amplification. Our findings validate the use of swab-based molecular techniques for accurately identifying depredating shark species and confirm the absence of misleading eDNA signals. This approach provides a valuable, non-invasive tool for studying predator-prey interactions and informing fisheries management strategies.

RevDate: 2025-10-24

Bonneau P, Renkema JM, Gariepy T, et al (2025)

Effects of multiple biological control agents on Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field.

Journal of economic entomology pii:8300761 [Epub ahead of print].

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura is a nearly worldwide invasive pest that causes damage to ripening fruit, particularly raspberries. Biological control in an integrated pest management strategy may be an alternative to repeated insecticide applications. We evaluated the effects of using multiple commercially available agents against D. suzukii in raspberries. In the laboratory, the combination of the pupal parasitoid Muscidifurax raptorellus Kogan and Legner (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and predators Orius insidiosus Say (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) and Chrysoperla carnea Stephens (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) reduced D. suzukii to the lowest level compared to any 1 species or 2 species combinations in a substitutive design. However, in caged plants with ripening fruit in a greenhouse, M. raptorellus and O. insidiosus together were more effective against D. suzukii than the 3 species combination. In high tunnels, M. raptorellus and O. insidiosus were ineffective against D. suzukii, and spinosad applications with or without M. raptorellus and O. insidiosus resulted in equally low numbers of D. suzukii. In the field, M. raptorellus and O. insidiosus and Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae Rondani (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) releases in raspberry plots with sweet alyssum were less effective against D. suzukii than spinosad applications to plots with or without sweet alyssum as a banker plant. Hymenoptera, particularly Figitidae: Eucoilinae as determined by barcoding, were more abundant in raspberries adjacent to sweet alyssum than in raspberry plots without sweet alyssum. With the discovery and redistribution of figitid parasitoids of larval D. suzukii, future research on their effects in combination with banker plants like sweet alyssum and releases of predators is needed.

RevDate: 2025-10-24
CmpDate: 2025-10-24

Ben Ahmed R, Gajda Ł, Raś D, et al (2025)

Taxonomic update and DNA barcoding of Tunisian nasal leeches (Annelida: Hirudiniformes; Praobdellidae): confirming Limnatis nilotica and revealing a second Limnatis species in North Africa.

Invertebrate systematics, 39(4):.

Leeches of the genus Limnatis are known ectoparasites of vertebrates, including humans and domestic animals, with some species causing significant health complications. In this study, we describe Limnatis anouarensis sp. nov., a new nasal leech species from Tunisia and compare it with Limnatis nilotica sensu stricto from Tunisia and Morocco. Morphological analyses were conducted using light and scanning electron microscopy, focusing on external and internal structures. Additionally, mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COI; 12S rRNA, 12S) and nuclear (28S rRNA, 28S) gene fragments were sequenced for molecular characterisation. The new species is distinguished by its larger size, distinct reproductive system morphology and unique dorsal colouration, characterised by a median orange band and marginal orange stripes, in contrast to the black-striped pattern of L. nilotica (Moore, 1938). Molecular analyses confirmed that mitochondrial markers provide reliable species identification, whereas the analysed fragment of 28S gene was fully conserved and unsuitable for differentiation. These findings confirm the presence of at least two distinct Limnatis species in North Africa, emphasising the need for further taxonomic and ecological studies to clarify their distribution, host specificity and potential medical significance. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:7CA59D0E-1D42-4A02-B886-D198DD88E698.

RevDate: 2025-10-23

Said MB (2025)

Advances in molecular taxonomy of Hyalomma ticks: from classical markers to next-generation omics.

Acta tropica pii:S0001-706X(25)00351-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Ticks of the genus Hyalomma are important vectors of pathogens affecting humans and animals, including viruses, bacteria, and protozoans, and their expanding geographic range, driven by climate change and migratory birds, raises concerns about emerging disease outbreaks, specifically tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in previously unaffected regions. Despite this epidemiological significance, Hyalomma taxonomy remains challenging due to morphological variability and cryptic species complexes, particularly in immature stages. This review traces how molecular taxonomy has evolved from classical to next-generation approaches, emphasizing how successive methodological innovations have transformed species identification, phylogenetic reconstruction, and vector surveillance. Molecular systematics has greatly advanced species identification and phylogeographic understanding. For instance, mitochondrial markers enable reliable barcoding and reveal broad geographic patterns, while nuclear markers complement these insights and support functional genomics studies. Yet, earlier molecular tools have often fallen short in resolving closely related species or detecting fine-scale genetic differentiation essential for understanding vector competence and adaptation. More recently, high-throughput approaches such as population genomics, sialotranscriptomics, and MALDI-TOF MS have enhanced species discrimination and allowed rapid field-based identification. These next-generation omics platforms represent the new frontier of Hyalomma systematics, enabling comprehensive genetic, proteomic, and transcriptomic characterization that bridges taxonomy with function. However, despite these advances, significant challenges persist, including the scarcity of reference genomes for several Hyalomma species, limited integration of multi-omics datasets, and the lack of standardized bioinformatics pipelines that hinder data comparability across studies. Moreover, uneven geographic sampling and inconsistent marker selection continue to restrict our capacity to delineate cryptic lineages and link genetic diversity to epidemiological outcomes. By bridging taxonomy with function, these omics innovations establish an integrated framework linking genetic diversity to epidemiological risk and provide a roadmap for predictive, standardized, and applied Hyalomma taxonomy to improve vector surveillance and disease preparedness. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis integrating classical, mitochondrial, nuclear, and multi-omics approaches for Hyalomma systematics.

RevDate: 2025-10-23
CmpDate: 2025-10-23

Tong Y, Liu Z, Liu H, et al (2025)

A new terrestrial talitrid genus, Kachinorchestia, with a new species from Myanmar (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Arcitalitridae).

Biodiversity data journal, 13:e162403.

BACKGROUND: The Arcitalitridae (Amphipoda, Senticaudata, Talitrida, Talitroidea) is a diverse family containing 15 genera, of which Myanmarorchestia Hou, 2017 and Solitroides Suzuki, Nakano, Nguyen, Nguyen, Morino & Tomikawa, 2017 were reported in Southeast Asia. During research of terrestrial amphipods in Myanmar, we found character traits of some specimens did not match any existing genus of the family Arcitalitridae. These specimens should belong to a new genus.

NEW INFORMATION: This new genus Kachinorchestia Hou, gen. nov. with one new species Kachinorchestia putao Hou, sp. nov. is described from terrestrial habitats in Myanmar. This new genus is characterised by mandible left lacinia mobilis with four teeth, gnathopod II propodus of male enlarged, oval and subchelate, with hook posteriorly, simplidactylate pereopods, complex and lobed gills and telson uncleft. Photos, molecular and morphological descriptions of new genus are provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-22

Rabbani G, Chan KH, BJ Wainwright (2025)

Shark and ray meat sold for human consumption contains toxic metal concentrations above safe limits with concentrations varying by species and habitat.

Marine pollution bulletin, 222(Pt 3):118822 pii:S0025-326X(25)01298-6 [Epub ahead of print].

Due to the high trophic positions sharks and rays occupy as apex predators, they are known to biomagnify toxic metals. This is problematic because shark meat consumption is increasing throughout the world where it is frequently seen as a cheap and accessible source of dietary protein. This increased consumption has the potential to expose humans to concentrations of toxic metals above those deemed safe by regulatory authorities. Shark and ray meat is frequently dried or sold as fillets making it difficult to identify the species. To overcome these identification challenges we used DNA barcoding to determine the species of shark used for meat. Two hundred and ninety-five samples were collected from retail establishments in Singapore and barcoded, this resulted in the identification of 17 species, 12 are predominantly inhabitants of coastal waters, while five are identified as oceanic species. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry the concentrations of mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead in each was determined. In all samples, across all species we found multiple instances where mandated safe concentrations for each metal were exceeded, with these concentrations differing significantly by species analysed. Further analysis, grouping samples by habitat type revealed significant differences in the concentrations of toxic metals between species from coastal and oceanic habitats. The results show that consumption of shark and ray meat can expose consumers to high concentrations of toxic metals, with these concentrations varying significantly by species and habitat. Given these differences, accurate and detailed product labelling that indicates the species of origin and habitat would allow consumers to avoid species that pose the highest risk to health.

RevDate: 2025-10-22
CmpDate: 2025-10-22

Cunniffe NJ, Gold KM, Hamelin FM, et al (2025)

From Chaos to Clarity: Deriving Meaningful Biology from Big Data in Plant Pathology.

Phytopathology, 115(10):1240-1244.

This Focus Issue was inspired by the vast volumes of data now being generated from both laboratory experiments and field studies. These complex, high dimensional data sets demand new analytic approaches. We invited contributions that apply novel statistical, machine learning, or artificial intelligence methods, or that integrate multiple 'omics approaches to reveal new aspects of pathogen biology, host interactions, or emergent system-level properties. The Focus Issue contains 13 articles falling into five broad themes and drawing upon a diverse range of data types, from disease imaging to meta-barcoding data to optical sensing to genetic data to expert knowledge. Together, these papers show how integrating technology, data, and biology is already transforming plant pathology. We hope this Focus Issue inspires new collaborations, new methods, and a continued commitment to turning data into understanding and chaos into clarity. [Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 "No Rights Reserved" license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2025.

RevDate: 2025-10-22

Zhang B, Jiang W, Fang Z, et al (2025)

Development of a High-Resolution MNP Marker System for Aquatic Biodiversity Monitoring: A Case Study With Schizothorax prenanti in the Yangtze River.

Molecular ecology resources [Epub ahead of print].

Effective monitoring of aquatic biodiversity is critical for conservation, yet current approaches such as mitochondrial COI barcoding and microsatellite markers exhibit limitations in resolution, sensitivity, and scalability, particularly for detecting low-abundance or degraded DNA in mixed aquatic samples. To address these challenges, we developed a novel Multiple Nucleotide Polymorphism (MNP) marker system tailored to S. prenanti, an endangered endemic fish species emblematic of biodiversity crises in the Yangtze River. Through restriction-site associated DNA sequencing, we identified 115 genome-wide MNP markers. These markers demonstrated ultrasensitive detection (~1 DNA copy/reaction) and high specificity (mean discriminative power = 0.77, calculated as the probability that two random samples differ at a locus). When applied to environmental DNA from the Yangtze River, the MNP system revealed substantial genetic diversity among 86 samples (84% average differentiation rate) and quantified the contribution of artificially stocked fish to natural populations, identified 567 shared alleles between stocked and wild populations. By outperforming traditional methods in analysing fragmented DNA and enabling high-throughput applications, this MNP framework provides a transformative approach for conservation genetics. Our scalable solution bridges the gap between genetic research and conservation action, offering global applicability for aquatic biodiversity monitoring.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Johansen NS, Eiken HG, Rossmann SL, et al (2025)

Aphid populations and virus vector potential in potato fields across seasons and regions in Norway.

Scientific reports, 15(1):36675.

Several aphid species pose serious treats to potato crops by causing direct damage to the plants and/or indirectly by transmitting viruses. Different morphological forms and phenotypic plasticity among aphids complicates taxonomy and identification and thus makes targeted pest management in potatoes challenging. To obtain an overview of aphids frequenting potato fields in Norway, we investigated seasonal and annual changes in aphid populations in five potato fields (58-64 °N) over a three-year period (2016-2018), using yellow pan traps. In total 2218 of the 6136 collected aphids were identified by traditional barcoding, meaning sequencing a ~ 650 fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene. This revealed 137 different species, of which 111 were identified at the species level. The remaining were identified only to the genus level, indicating potential novel species. The southernmost sampling location yielded the highest number of species and individual counts, although no clear correlations to climate factors (temperature/precipitation) was observed. Of the 111 species identified, at least 39 are potential vectors of potato virus Y (PVY) and nine species may also transmit potato virus A (PVA). Knowledge on virus vector and non-vector aphid abundance and phenology have the potential to improve pest management of potato cultivation.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Geci D, Ibrahimi H, Strohmeier T, et al (2025)

First DNA barcoding of Dysderidae (Araneae) from Kosovo, with new records and the description of a new species of Harpactea Bristowe, 1939.

Zootaxa, 5653(4):486-500.

New taxonomic and faunistic data on the dysderid spiders of Kosovo are presented, along with a survey of previous records. Harpactea dardanica Geci & Zamani sp. nov., belonging to the lepida species-group, is described as new to science based on male specimens collected in the Bjeshkt-e-Nemuna National Park, western Kosovo. Dysdera adriatica Kulczyski, 1897, Dy. lata Reuss, 1834, Dasumia kusceri (Kratochvl, 1935), H. rubicunda (C.L. Koch, 1838), H. srednagora Dimitrov & Lazarov, 1999, and H. tenuiemboli Deltshev, 2011, as well as the genus Dasumia Thorell, 1875, are reported from Kosovo for the first time. Additional records are provided for Dy. longirostris Doblika, 1853 and H. lepida (C.L. Koch, 1838). DNA barcodes (partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene) were generated for all species. Photographic illustrations are provided for the newly described species, as well as for H. srednagora and H. tenuiemboli.

RevDate: 2025-10-22
CmpDate: 2025-10-22

Dai YT, Chen ZG, Hu CL, et al (2024)

Taxonomic reassessment of Scabies (Bivalvia: Unionidae) species in China based on multilocus and mitogenomic phylogenetic analyses.

Invertebrate systematics, 38(6):.

Effective species conservation necessitates the ability to accurately differentiate among species, a challenge compounded by taxonomic uncertainties in freshwater mussels due to substantial intraspecific variation and pronounced phenotypic plasticity in shell morphology. The taxonomic status and species validity of Scabies longata and S. chinensis, two species endemic in China, have been under continuous debate since establishment. The lack of essential molecular data required for a comprehensive systematic study has resulted in the unresolved taxonomic status of these two species. This study presents molecular data, including COI barcoding, COI + 28S rRNA, and mitogenomic data combined with morphological characteristics to assess the validity of S. longata and S. chinensis. Both morphological and COI barcoding data support the conclusion that S. longata and S. chinensis are junior synonyms of Nodularia douglasiae and N. nuxpersicae respectively. Our findings suggest the absence of Scabies species in China. Mitochondrial phylogenetic analyses were used to further elucidate intrageneric relationships within the genus Nodularia, revealing the following relationships: (N. breviconcha (Nodularia sp. 1 (N. douglasiae (N. nuxpersicae, N. nipponensis)))). We underscore the significance of employing an integrated taxonomic approach for species identification, especially given the considerable morphological disparities between larvae and adult freshwater mussels. Proper morphological identification of adult specimens is essential for extracting meaningful taxonomic characters. Furthermore, our findings suggest a notable resemblance between the freshwater bivalve fauna in southern China and those east of the Mekong River. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:DA87D330-5E23-4F4B-8CC2-CBA3CD191BE8.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Zheng Y, Badano D, Aspck U, et al (2025)

Revision of the antlion genus Epacanthaclisis Okamoto, 1910 (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae: Dendroleontinae).

Zootaxa, 5657(1):1-100.

The antlion genus Epacanthaclisis of the subfamily Dendroleontinae is herein revised. A total of 22 species (including 11 new species) are recorded from East to Central Asia and classified into four species groups: 1) the E. continentalis group: E. alaica Krivokhatsky, 1998, E. continentalis Esben-Petersen, 1935, E. darman Zheng, Badano, U. Aspck, H. Aspck & Liu sp. nov., E. hamata Krivokhatsky, 1998, E. kuldurguch Krivokhatsky, 1998, E. liuyingqiae Zheng, Badano, U. Aspck, H. Aspck & Liu sp. nov., E. victor Badano, Zheng & Liu sp. nov., E. zhiweii Zheng, Badano, U. Aspck, H. Aspck & Liu sp. nov., and E. zuqii Zheng, Badano, U. Aspck, H. Aspck & Liu sp. nov.; 2) the E. tuyuezhengi group: E. tuyuezhengi Zheng & Liu sp. nov., E. zhihaoi Zheng & Liu sp. nov.; 3) the E. maculosa group: E. jiazhii Zheng, U. Aspck, H. Aspck, Hayashi & Liu sp. nov., E. maculata (Yang, 1986), E. maculosa (Yang, 1986), E. minana (Yang, 1999), E. wuchaoi Zheng, Badano & Liu sp. nov., and E. xiaohongae Zheng & Liu sp. nov.; 4) the E. moiwana group: E. banksi Krivokhatsky, 1998, E. longwai Zheng, Hayashi & Liu sp. nov., E. moiwana (Okamoto, 1905), and E. ningshana Wan & Wang, 2010. Besides, E. batangana Yang, 1992, is not assigned to any species group. E. amydrovittata Wan & Wang, 2010 syn. nov. and E. samarkandica Krivokhatsky, 1998 syn. nov. are respectively synonymized as E. banksi and E. continentalis. Immature stages of five species (E. zuqii sp. nov., E. jiazhii sp. nov., E. minana, E. banksi, and E. ningshana) from China are reported after identification through rearing and COI barcoding. A key to the species of Epacanthaclisis is provided. The specialized morphological characters, systematic position, distribution pattern, and biology of Epacanthaclisis are discussed.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Pyrcz TW, Boyer P, Garlacz R, et al (2025)

Out of the blue: a new blue Lymanopoda butterfly from the pramo of northern Colombia raises questions about disjunct distributions (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Satyrinae).

Zootaxa, 5659(4):547-564.

A new, striking species of satyrine butterfly, Lymanopoda chysquyco sp. nov. (Nymphalidae, Satyrinae, Satyrini, Pronophilina) is described from the Pramo de Guerrero, the northern extremity of high-altitude grasslands in the Colombian Eastern Cordillera. Among approximately 70 known Lymanopoda species, only five exhibit blue colour on the upperside of their wings, with no evidence of close relationships among them. The new species superficially resembles L. samius Westwood which occurs parapatrically at slightly lower elevations and belongs to a distantly related lineage within the genus. Remarkably, external morphology and male genitalia suggest a strong similarity of the new species to L. hazelana found in southern Ecuador and northernmost Peruover 1300 km away. Molecular analysis using COI barcoding confirms that L. hazelana and a few other closely related species also found in southern Ecuador are the closest known relatives of L. chysquyco sp. nov. This substantial geographic disjunction is unlikely to be a sampling artefact, as intermediate pramo regions of the Eastern and Central Colombian Cordillera and central Ecuador have been extensively surveyed. The origin of L. chysquyco sp. nov. in northern Colombia remains unclear, and two possible scenarioslong-distance dispersal or vicariance accompanied by large-scale extinction in intervening areasare considered.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Li SL, Zhou YC, Liu P, et al (2025)

Three new species of the genus Draconarius Ovtchinnikov, 1999 (Araneae: Agelenidae) from Hunan Province, China.

Zootaxa, 5659(4):581-588.

Three new species of the genus Draconarius Ovtchinnikov, 1999 are described as such: D. circinatus sp. nov. (male, female), D. jiemuxiensis sp. nov. (female) and D. latus sp. nov. (male, female), from Hunan province, China. Detailed descriptions, photos of somatic features and copulatory organs, as well as the distribution map are provided. Nucleotide data for the barcoding gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of D. circinatus sp. nov. (male, female) are provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Seong JW, Park JG, DH Nam (2025)

Revisiting subspecies identification of Common Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus): A critical look at Zhang et al. (2008).

Zootaxa, 5659(4):536-546.

Zhang et al. (2008) investigated subspecific variation of Common Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) wintering in Beijing, China, using a partial mtDNA control region (394395bp), and concluded that two subspecies were present. However, analysis of their raw data revealed mostly double peaks at each nucleotide position, indicating ambiguity in the DNA sequence. These likely arose from a combination of factors, including irregular PCR efficiencies and slight primer mismatches. Zhang et al. (2008) likely misinterpreted these double peaks as evidence of distinct subspecies. This resulted in an inflated number (56) of variation sites. Their interpretation was further confounded by potential issues with their primers, designed from a sequence of F. peregrinus with a one-nucleotide difference. To address these limitations, we sequenced the full mtDNA control region (1,266bp) of 38 Common Kestrel samples using newly designed primers. This analysis yielded clean, single-peak profiles for each sequence, confirming that all samples belonged to F. t. interstinctus. We therefore propose reclassifying these populations as a single subspecies, F. t. interstinctus. Erroneous barcode sequences can distort subspecific identification and population structure, leading to inaccurate data and misleading phylogenetic inferences. Our study underscores the critical need for robust methods to minimize barcode sequencing errors. This would not only ensure accurate phylogenetic inferences for Common Kestrels but also support reliable population genetic studies across diverse taxa.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Kamyab F, Makhov IA, A Mokhtari (2025)

A new species of the genus Dzhugesia Wehrli (Lepidoptera: Geometridae, Ennominae) from Iran.

Zootaxa, 5660(2):255-266.

A series of geometrid moths belonging to the little-known genus Dzhugesia Wehrli, 1936, were collected in southern Iran (Kerman Province). Both morphological characters and DNA barcoding confirm that the specimens represent a new species, herein described as D. alierfani Makhov & Kamyab sp. nov. Additional remarks on the diagnostic characters of the genus Dzhugesia are provided. The relationships between Dzhugesia and the closely related genera Crocallis and Scodiomima are also discussed. Furthermore, the misidentification of a specimen previously submitted to the BOLD database is corrected. This study constitutes the first record of the genus Dzhugesia from Iran. D. miatleuskii is recorded as new species for the fauna of Iran.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Ruengsawang N, Sangpradub N, Cubeddu T, et al (2025)

Bangkok urban census of aquatic invertebrate fauna by an integrative taxonomic approach: the case of Suan Luang Rama IX Park and its freshwater sponges (Spongillida: Spongillidae).

Zootaxa, 5660(3):371-388.

Faunistic investigations on freshwater bodies of the Bangkok Metropolitan Area resulted in the discovery of a freshwater sponge population fragmented in small lentic microhabitats at the Suan Luang Rama IX Park. Sponges living in the lotus and waterlily garden and tropical greenhouse were photographed in situ, and some representative, small samples were collected and stored at the Division of Biology (Porifera Collection), Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Bangkok. The taxonomic integrative analyses focused on diagnostic morphotraits, barcoding, and biogeography. The sponge population was ascribed to Radiospongilla cf. cerebellata (Porifera: Demospongiae: Spongillida: Spongillidae) and is a new record for the Bangkok area and the entire Thai inland water. Comparative integrative analyses vs spongillid taxa worldwide resulted in the discovery of new gemmular morphotraits for the genus. Although the Thai Radiospongilla cf. cerebellata diverges from the Indian type of Radiospongilla cerebellata at the level of gemmular theca architecture, molecular analyses highlighted the matching of the former with the Radiospongilla cluster. A possible allochthonous origin of the Bangkok Radiospongillas population is hypothesised. This investigation on botanical gardens aquatic fauna and a review of appropriate literature highlights that sponges are able to inhabit very confined and fragmented, shallow water bodies, i.e., scattered terracotta pots, plastic containers, and small ponds with aquatic plants also in megalopolis gardens.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Kawashima I, Matsui Y, S Yagi (2025)

Taxonomic study of Japanese species of the genus Gibberifera Obraztsov (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae), with a description of a new species.

Zootaxa, 5660(4):547-559.

Gibberifera xylosmae sp. nov., whose larvae feed on Xylosma congesta (Salicaceae), is described in Japan. Photographs of adults, male and female genitalia of the three Japanese Gibberifera species are provided. The diagnosis, a key, and DNA barcodes of Japanese Gibberifera species are also presented. Intraspecific and interspecific genetic distances between Japanese Gibberifera species and other congeners are also provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Mengual X, M Hauser (2025)

Atriadops Wandolleck, 1897 (Diptera: Nemestrinidae) recorded for the first time from Ecuador.

Zootaxa, 5660(4):596-600.

The genus Atriadops Wandolleck, 1897 (Diptera: Nemestrinidae) occurs in the Neotropical, Afrotropical, Indomalayan and Australasian Regions. It is easily recognized by not having ocelli and the vestigial mouthparts. Out of the seven recognized species worldwide, only one is present in the Neotropics, A. macula (Wiedemann, 1824). We report the first record of Atriadops from Ecuador, a female of A. macula, from the Napo Province, provide the first DNA barcode for the species, and discuss the possible reasons for the low number of records of this genus.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Zheng T, Wu K, F Zhang (2025)

First record of the subfamily Megaschizominae Rowland, 1973 from China, with description of a new species of Megaschizomus Lawrence, 1969 (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae).

Zootaxa, 5661(1):80-94.

The subfamily Megaschizominae Rowland, 1973 is recorded from China for the first time through the description of a new species in the genus Megaschizomus Lawrence, 1969: M. zhongshanensis sp. nov. (male, female). This study presents the first illustrated description of male genital structures for a species within this subfamily. In addition to the detailed description, illustrations, diagnosis, and a distribution map are provided. Additionally, the DNA barcode of the new species is also provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Huemer P, Mayr T, Nel J, et al (2025)

Epermenia reinhardgaedikei sp. nov., an overlooked species from central-southern Europe (Lepidoptera, Epermeniidae).

Zootaxa, 5661(2):237-248.

Epermenia reinhardgaedikei sp. nov. is described from material collected in central Italy, south-eastern France, and eastern Austria. The species was hitherto mixed with the congeners E. theimeri Gaedike, 2001 and E. profugella (Stainton, 1856) due to superficial similarity in male genitalia. However, the new species is closest to E. iniquellus (Wocke, 1867), differing from that species and congeners in structures of male genitalia and by DNA barcodes. Adults, male and female genitalia are figured.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Lim W, Bang WJ, S Shin (2025)

New records of Macrocera Meigen 1803 (Diptera, Keroplatidae) from the Korean Peninsula with description of a new species.

Zootaxa, 5665(2):239-255.

A new speciesMacrocera interrupta sp. nov.is described from Wando, South Korea. We also report the first records of M. abdominalis Okada 1937 and M. maculosa Matsumura 1915 from South Korea. DNA barcoding data for all three species are presented. Their relationships with other Macrocera species from the Palearctic Region are briefly discussed.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Sohn JC (2025)

A new species of Oruza Walker, 1861 (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Boletobiinae) from Korea with barcode-based pairing.

Zootaxa, 5665(4):592-596.

A new species of the genus Oruza, O. koreana sp. nov. is described, based on 14 specimens collected in Korea. The species is closely related to Oruza obliquaria Marumo, 1932 but can be distinguished from the latter by the shapes of the costal process in the male genitalia and the lamella postvaginalis in the female genitalia. The occurrence of Oruza obliquaria in Korea is discussed. Two COI barcodes of O. koreana sp. nov. are provided to facilitate pairing and reliable identification.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Golovatch SI, Enghoff H, BD Efeykin (2025)

Chondrodesmus riparius Carl, 1914, a millipede species new to the fauna of Costa Rica, originally described from Colombia, and introduced to and presently widespread across Europe (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Chelodesmidae).

Zootaxa, 5692(1):161-174.

The fairly large-bodied Neotropical millipede genus Chondrodesmus Silvestri, 1897, includes 23 species described from Central America, to Costa Rica in the north, and 25 more from South America, to Colombia, Venezuela, Peru and central-western Amazonia of Brazil in the south. Among them, seven species have hitherto been described or recorded from Costa Rica, including Chondrodesmus hoffmanni (Peters, 1865), from an unknown place, and here revised based on the holotype. Unexpectedly, it appears to differ markedly from all Costa Rican congeners, and instead it shows profound similarities to Chondrodesmus riparius Carl, 1914, from Colombia. The status of the European introduction heretofore provisionally referred to either as C. cf. riparius or C. riparius is confirmed here, since morphologically the European and Tropical American C. riparius populations represent the same species. To support this, comparative molecular studies using COI barcoding data, freshly obtained from a population from Costa Rica, with a European population of C. riparius show a congruence of 99.2%. This not only indicates the conspecificity of C. riparius from South America and Europe, but it also suggests the source area whence its introduction to Europe could have occurred.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Semenchenko AA, Palatov DM, EA Makarchenko (2025)

A review of the taxonomy, distribution and population genetic analysis of the Diamesa cinerella group (Diptera: Chironomidae: Diamesinae), with a description of D. soktoshensis sp. nov. and DNA barcoding of known species.

Zootaxa, 5692(1):121-147.

We provide original identification keys for adult males, brief redescriptions of the seven known species, a description of a new species, D. soktoshensis sp. nov., and a molecular genetic analysis of species of the Diamesa cinerella group. Population genetic analysis of Diamesa cinerella group revealed 109 haplotypes for 183 samples and a high level of haplotype diversity0.984 0.004. We identified four haplogroups, including Diamesa tsutsuii (1), Diamesa lavillei (2), Diamesa. soktoshensis sp. nov. (3) and the remaining species (4). The four haplogroups were significantly different from each other by FST values (P < 0.01). We explored the use of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) region as an alternative nuclear DNA barcode forspecies delimitation of the Diamesa cinerella group. Three haplogroups were identified with no obvious connection to the species or sampling location.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Zhang H, Li Q, Yang Z, et al (2025)

Description of five new species of Zodariidae Thorell, 1881 (Araneae) from Yunnan, China.

Zootaxa, 5692(2):256-276.

Five new ant-eating spiders from Yunnan, China, are described: Asceua banlaoensis sp. nov. (), A. nangunhe sp. nov. (), Euryeidon cervicornis sp. nov. (), Mallinella acutidentata sp. nov. () and M. tongbiguan sp. nov. (); the habitus and copulatory organs are documented, and a distribution map is provided for all new species. The association between males and females of Euryeidon cervicornis sp. nov. was confirmed by genetic similarity (COI barcoding).

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Schmidt BC, M Gartshore (2025)

Ecology, morphology and distribution of Anisota finlaysoni Riotte (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae).

Zootaxa, 5646(1):63-77.

Identifying the conservation needs of the short-horned oakworm, Anisota finlaysoni Riotte, has been hampered by incomplete resolution of species boundaries and geographic ranges of the Anisota senatoria species-group. Here, the life history, morphology, occurrence, and DNA barcode variation of A. finlaysoni and A. senatoria are compared across a transect of three key geographic regions in Ontario, Canada. Contrary to recent range depictions, our results show that A. finlaysoni is currently confirmed to occur only in the region of eastern Lake Ontarios north shore. Previous information on morphological characters used to distinguish A. finlaysoni is incomplete or erroneous. Lake Erie populations most recently assigned to A. finlaysoni exhibit some finlaysoni-like larval traits, but adult phenotype of all examined material is indistinguishable from A. senatoria of the Lake Huron region, and unlike topotypical A. finlaysoni. Although the cryptic occurrence of A. finlaysoni in the Lake Erie region cannot be ruled out, current data indicate that this species has a much smaller global range than previously believed, and is separated by a geographic gap of about 200 km from the nearest A. senatoria populations. Re-assignment of the Lake Erie populations from A. finlaysoni to A. senatoria, and the recognition of some peripheral occurrence records as historical errors, results in a significantly smaller global range for A. finlaysoni. DNA barcode data for the genus Anisota are at odds with current taxonomy, limiting the utility of barcodes in discriminating species of the senatoria-group. Because A. finlaysoni is distinct morphologically as adults and larvae from geographically nearby populations of A. senatoria, it should continue to be treated as a distinct species pending convincing evidence to the contrary.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Debnath R, Reddy BT, Rajmohana K, et al (2025)

Morphological and molecular characterization of a new species of Hadronotus Frster (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) reared from reduviid eggs in India.

Zootaxa, 5711(3):424-434.

Hadronotus omnistriatus Debnath, Rajmohana and Thirupam Reddy sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is described herein as new to science from India under the muscaeformis species group. The specimens were reared from eggs of a reduviid host (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). A detailed morphological description is provided, along with its DNA barcode data. A single gene-based molecular phylogenetic analysis on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I is presented to support the delineation of the new species. Additionally, a checklist of Hadronotus species reported from India is provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Timossi G (2025)

Micropterix vulcanica sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Micropterigidae) discovered on the island of Pantelleria (Italy, Sicily).

Zootaxa, 5683(2):282-288.

Micropterix vulcanica sp. nov. is described, found during research on the biodiversity of Lepidoptera on Pantelleria Island National Park (Italy, Sicily). The new species has a unique combination of color pattern of the wings, genital morphology and DNA barcode.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Lvarez Y, Nez R, Magaldi LM, et al (2025)

Phenotypes, natural history and barcodes unveil cryptic species within the Caribbean Metalmark Dianesia carteri (Holland) (Lepidoptera: Riodinidae).

Zootaxa, 5686(1):5-48.

The butterfly genus Dianesia Harvey & Clench, 1980 is the only known representative of the family Riodinidae in the West Indies with a single described species containing two subspecies, represented by rare, little-known populations occurring only in the Bahamas and Cuba. Until now, the genus has been regarded as monotypic, but differences in morphology, DNA barcodes and life history suggest that it contains multiple cryptic species. Our assessment led to recognize the existence of at least nine species within Dianesia: Dianesia carteri (Holland, 1902), Dianesia ramsdeni (Skinner, 1912) (previously regarded as a subspecies of the first), Dianesia galindoensis Barro, Hernndez & Torres, 2025, and the newly herein described Dianesia aberrans sp. nov., Dianesia sheylae sp. nov., Dianesia alayoi sp. nov., Dianesia flammata sp. nov., Dianesia abscondita sp. nov. and Dianesia serpentinicola sp. nov. These species remained unnoticed due to their superficial resemblance and lack of information about their biology, but can be differentiated by a combination of their DNA barcodes, wing length and shape, and elements of the color pattern, particularly the forewing postdiscal white band. Genitalia, habitat, host plant, and larval morphology also serve to differentiate the species. Bayesian and maximum likelihood COI gene trees recovered a similar topology in which all species are reciprocally monophyletic except for D. alayoi nested inside D. flammata. Species delimitation analyses supported the described species, including those that are not monophyletic, and suggested the presence of three additional species, but we regard them as artifacts produced by specimens with slightly different barcodes. Future research employing more genetic and ecological data is necessary to clarify the relationships among these species, as well as to understand their biogeographical history, ecology, and behavior, and to provide baseline knowledge for their conservation.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Zhou YC, Qin XY, Zhou GC, et al (2025)

Two new species of the genus Tmarus Simon, 1875 (Araneae: Thomisidae) from China.

Zootaxa, 5666(1):105-114.

Two new species of the genus Tmarus Simon, 1875 are described and named as T. yueluensis sp. nov. () and T. rostratus sp. nov. () from Hunan Province. Detailed description, photographs of somatic features and copulatory organs, as well as a distribution map are provided. Nucleotide data for the barcoding gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of T. yueluensis. sp. nov. () are provided.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Garzn-Ordua IJ, AVZ Brower (2025)

A new cryptic Phyllodonta Warren (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) from Mexico City with documentation of its life history.

Zootaxa, 5666(1):136-144.

A new species of Phyllodonta is described and illustrated from Mexico: P. coztomatlivora sp. nov. The new species is superficially indistinguishable from others in the so-called latrata species group, from which three other cryptic species from Costa Rica were recently described. However, it differs from them in features of the female genitalia, caterpillar morphology, larval food plant choice and DNA barcode. The new entity may be restricted to high elevations of the Trans Mexican Volcanic Belt; in Mexico City, the species is found inside a protected natural area which should warrant some level of conservation.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Jaume-Schinkel S (2025)

Morpho-Molecular species delimitation within Tonnoira Enderlein (Diptera, Psychodidae): Updates on COI barcode data and the description of five new species.

Zootaxa, 5673(1):1-26.

This work describes five new species of Tonnoira Enderlein, namely, T. acantha sp. nov., T. asymmetrica sp. nov., T. sinuosa sp. nov., T. stria sp. nov., and T. wachi sp. nov., increasing the total number of species in this genus to 33. Additionally, T. conistylus Jaume-Schinkel, 2022 is documented for the first time in Panama. COI barcodes are provided for four of these newly described species and for T. fusiformis Quate & Brown, 2004. Molecular species delimitation analyses demonstrate the effectiveness of COI barcodes in identifying and discovering Psychodidae species in the Neotropics. This work highlights the current state of COI barcoding for Tonnoira species, emphasizing the importance of integrating molecular tools with traditional taxonomy to enhance species identification and conservation strategies. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of species diversity within this genus and support ongoing biodiversity conservation efforts.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Hoang QD, Truong BP, TTT Tran (2025)

ReclassificationofCoelotes songae(Araneae:Agelenidae:Coelotinae)withdescriptionofitsunknownfemaleconfirmedbymorphologyandDNAbarcoding.

Zootaxa, 5673(1):143-150.

The genus Sinocoelotes Zhao & Li, 2016 is recorded from Vietnam for the first time based on the reclassificationof Coelotes songae Liu, Li & Pham, 2010 as Sinocoelotes songae (Liu, Li & Pham, 2010) comb. nov. The previously unknown female is described for the first time from type locality, as confirmed through DNA barcoding and morphological analysis.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Beljaev VA, Gorbunov PY, IA Makhov (2025)

An enigmatic new species of the genus Catarhoe (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae) from Kyrgyzstan and taxonomic notes to the genus.

Zootaxa, 5618(3):372-392.

The paper presents a new species of geometrid moth of the genus Catarhoe Herbulot, 1951 from Kyrgyzstan, and offers a concise taxonomic review of the genus based on existing literature and on an analysis of COI barcode mitochondrial DNA fragment in Epirrhoini. A new species and new monotypic subgenus are described: Catarhoe (Hyporhoe subgen. nov.) narynensis sp. nov. The species is distinguished by a unique set of characters in the male genitalia, which markedly differs from those of other congeneric species, and has significant genetic distances from the rest of the Catarhoe spp. but not exceeding genetic distances into the genus at whole. The current species composition of the genus Catarhoe has been clarified and includes 13 species. Taxonomic status of Catarhoe nyctichroa (Hampson, 1912), Catarhoe arachne hissarica Viidalepp, 1988, and Catarhoe semnana sensu Kemal et al. (2020) requires clarification. A high level of morphological and genetic diversity of the genus Catarhoe was revealed. The genetic distances between the morphological groups of Catarhoe spp. are comparable to those between the genera of Epirrhoini. The generic name Microcalcarifera Inoue, 1982, is revived from its synonymy with Catarhoe. The genus includes type species Microcalcarifera obscura (Butler, 1878: 450) (Cidaria), comb. rev., and two subspecies: Microcalcarifera obscura fecunda (Swinhoe, 1891), comb. rev. and Microcalcarifera obscura multilinea (Hampson, 1891), comb. rev.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Kosterin OE, Vierstraete A, Schneider T, et al (2025)

Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the family Macromiidae (Odonata) worldwide based on a mitochondrial and two nuclear markers, with a short overview of its taxonomic history.

Zootaxa, 5620(4):501-545.

Three molecular markers (two traditional and a new one), the barcoding fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene, the nuclear ITS region of the nucleolus organiser, and the nuclear histone H3H4 region including partial sequences of the highly conserved genes of core histones H3 and H4 and the non-coding spacer between them, were sequenced in 38 (31% of all) species of Macromiidae, representing all its four genera. Besides, 15 species of the related incertae sedis genera Macromidia Martin, 1907, Idionyx Hagen, 1867 and Oxygastra Selys, 1870 were sequenced. Available sequences of the concerned groups were also adopted from GenBank. All markers resolved Macromiidae as a monophyletic clade with the highest support. In contrast, our markers did not resolve the expected monophyletic branch containing the incertae sedis genera. Didymops transversa (Say, 1840) clustered with Macromia Rambur, 1842 in most trees as an inner lineage in the Macromia cluster. For this reason, we restored the synonymy of Didymops Rambur, 1842 with Macromia. Epophthalmia Burmeister, 1839 and Phyllomacromia Selys, 1878 were resolved as sister branches, as proposed before on morphological basis. On the species level, Macromia fraenata Martin, 1907, Macromia clio Ris, 1916 and Macromia kubokaiya Asahina, 1964 were restored as valid species names. Macromia flavocolorata Fraser, 1922 was downgraded to the subspecies Macromia calliope flavocolorata, stat rev., but the name Macromia miniata Fraser, 1924 was restored as valid species name to denote the species of the Western Ghats of India once considered as M. flavocolorata as well. The synonymy of M. cupricincta Fraser, 1924 and M. berlandi Lieftinck, 1941 at the species level were confirmed but the latter was treated as M. cupricincta berlandi stat. rev. Macromia hamata Zhou, 2003 was synonymised to Macromia manchurica Asahina, 1964. The presence of Epophthalmia vittata Burmeister, 1839 in Indochina as a common species was confirmed. The situation with Macromia callisto Laidlaw, 1922 remains obscure.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Can L, HB Aydemr (2025)

New records with DNA barcodes of the family Proctotrupidae (Hymenoptera: Proctotrupoidea) from Trkiye.

Zootaxa, 5621(1):131-143.

The current study presents faunistic data concerning the Proctotrupidae family from the Central Black Sea region, specifically the Yeilrmak Delta in Samsun Province, Trkiye. Specimens were collected using Malaise traps over a period from March to September 2023. A total of five species across five genera of Proctotrupidae were identified. Notably, the genera Codrus Panzer, 1805, Cryptoserphus Kieer, 1907, and Mischoserphus Townes, 1981, along with the species Codrus picicornis Foerster, 1856, Cryptoserphus aculeator (Haliday, 1839) and Mischoserphus obesus Townes, 1981 are reported for the first time in Trkiye. An identification key for the existing genera of Turkish Proctotrupidae is included. The study also investigated the use of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene-based DNA barcoding for species identification. Partial sequence data for Proctotrupidae species Cryptoserphus aculeator, Exallonyx crenicornis, Mischoserphus obesus, Phaneroserphus calcar, and Phaenoserphus viator were obtained and submitted to the NCBI database under accession numbers PQ423217PQ423221.The COI barcode sequences for M. obesus, which were previously undocumented in databases, are also presented. A phylogenetic tree constructed from COI sequences facilitates the identification and comparison of taxa. Despite observable morphological differences, certain species were found to be closely related, indicating the necessity for further research encompassing a wider array of species and specimens. The findings suggest that COI barcoding serves as an effective tool for the accurate and expedient identification of Proctotrupidae species.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Oliveira-Filho RR, Antunes M, Tamburus AF, et al (2025)

New records of decapod crustaceans (Crustacea, Decapoda) in the central coast of Brazil supported by integrative analysis.

Zootaxa, 5621(2):196-210.

The decapod fauna of the coast of Esprito Santo, southeastern Brazil, is poorly studied. Herein we report for the first time, for the region, the occurrence of eight species of crustaceans, representing an important contribution to the knowledge about the Brazilian biodiversity. The specimens were collected near the mouths of four estuaries (So Mateus, Ipiranga, Doce and Piraqu-A). For identification of the newly recorded species, Apiomithrax violaceus (A. Milne-Edwards, 1867), Notolopas brasiliensis Miers, 1886, Speloephorus elevatus Rathbun, 1898, Acantholobulus caribbaeus (Stimpson, 1871), Hexapanopeus angustifrons (Benedict & Rathbun, 1891), Hexapanopeus paulensis Rathbun, 1930, Mesorhoea sexspinosa Stimpson, 1871 and Leander paulensis Ortmann, 1897, morphology was assessed using specific literature. DNA barcoding was used as a complementary tool for the species identification. The present study fills many gaps in the geographic distribution of crustaceans in the Western Atlantic and will serve as an updated record and baseline for future studies along the Brazilian coast.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Timossi G, P Huemer (2025)

Adela paludicolella Zeller, 1850, and Adela orientella Staudinger, 1870 sp. rev. (Lepidoptera, Adelidae): two distinct species revealed by morphological analysis and DNA barcoding.

Zootaxa, 5621(2):249-261.

The morphological study of A. paludicolella specimens collected in Italyspecifically from the island of Elba (Tuscany) and Sardiniaas well as from Greece, has revealed differences in habitus and reproductive organs between the Italian and Greek specimens. Subsequent genetic analysis confirmed the genetic distinction between A. paludicolella Zeller, 1850, and A. orientella Staudinger, 1870 (sp. rev.), which are distributed in the western and eastern Mediterranean, respectively.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Garzn-Ordua IJ, Matson TA, AM Vzquez (2025)

Four new species of Acronyctodes Edwards (Geometridae: Ennominae) from Mesoamerica.

Zootaxa, 5621(3):335-352.

Four new species of Acronyctodes are described and illustrated: A. gabrieli Matson sp. nov., A. asignum Matson sp. nov., A. bisbili Murillo-Vzquez sp. nov., and A. corrugata Matson & Garzn-Ordua sp. nov. Each species is distinguished by unique genitalic features, different DNA barcode data, and in some cases, interspecific larval color patterns. With the addition of these new species and the exclusion of Acronyctodes thinballa from the genus, the total number of species in Acronyctodes has doubled to eight.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Lu M, Yao Z, T Liu (2025)

Leaf-mining moths of the genus Phyllonorycter Hbner (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae: Lithocolletinae) associated with Juglandaceae in China, with descriptions of two new species and one newly recorded species.

Zootaxa, 5621(4):453-464.

Until recently, no species of Phyllonorycter Hbner, 1822 had been recorded to feed on Juglandaceae in China. In this study, we describe two new species, P. stenopterae Lu & Liu, sp. nov. and P. tumoris Lu & Liu, sp. nov., both discovered in Shandong Province, China, feeding on Pterocarya stenoptera C. DC. (Juglandaceae). Additionally, this paper provides the first record of P. pterocaryae (Kumata, 1963) in China, along with its newly identified host plant, Pterocarya stenoptera. Detailed images of the adults, genitalia, pupae, host plants, leaf mines, and DNA barcode data of the new species are presented.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Zhang ZC, Chen JW, Zhang Y, et al (2025)

First record of the genus Krenopelopia (Diptera: Chironomidae) from China, with a description of Krenopelopia wangi sp. nov.

Zootaxa, 5673(2):280-290.

The genus Krenopelopia Fittkau, 1962 is recorded from China for the first time. Krenopelopia wangi Zhang & Lin, sp. nov. is described and illustrated as adults. Species status is supported by COI DNA barcodes. A key to adult males of Krenopelopia worldwide is presented.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Pei V, Bankowska A, Goldschmidt T, et al (2025)

Checklist of water mites from the Balkan Peninsula: second supplement, new DNA barcodes and description of a new species.

Zootaxa, 5676(1):1-74.

Knowledge of the water mite fauna in the Balkans is still very heterogeneous and far from complete. A compilation of published data is considered the first step in creating an up-to-date comprehensive checklist of water mites of the Balkans. In this supplement, we list all species reported from the Balkans from November 2017 to date and provide an updated checklist of water mites that inhabit the Balkan countries. With the additions in this study, the number of water mite species inhabiting the Balkan Peninsula has increased to 426 species and subspecies. One species, Sperchon balcanicus Pei, sp. nov. (Sperchontidae), is described as new to science. This study adds 299 new barcodes to the existing DNA barcode reference library that now includes 1032 COI DNA barcodes from the Balkans publicly available through the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD). Still, only one-third of the currently known species of water mites in the Balkans now have reference barcodes in BOLD, indicating the need for future integrative research on the morphological and genetic diversity of Balkan water mites.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Stadie D, Lszl GM, R Fiebig (2025)

Integrative taxonomic revision of the Xenimpia-Psilocladia-Coenina generic complex with a review of the genus Procypha Warren, 1897 stat. rev. (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Gonodontini).

Zootaxa, 5677(1):1-69.

Using an integrative approach, the classification of the Afrotropical ennomine genera Xenimpia Warren, 1895, Coenina Walker, 1860, and Psilocladia Warren, 1898, is revised. As a result of the DNA barcoding combined with morphological data, eight distinct genera are delimited and characterised to include the current species content of Xenimpia, Coenina and Psilocladia: Bambenga Lszl, Stadie & Fiebig gen. nov. (type species Xenimpia repudiosa Prout, 1915), Arebatia Lszl, Stadie & Fiebig gen. nov. (type species Xenimpia tetracantha Herbulot, 1973), Claudimpia Lszl, Stadie & Fiebig gen. nov. (type species Xenimpia soricina Herbulot, 1973) and Paracoenina Lszl, Stadie & Fiebig gen. nov. (type species Coenina dentataria Swinhoe, 1904) are established. Furthermore, Xenimpia Warren, 1895 (type species: X. erosa Warren, 1895), Coenina Walker, 1860 (type species: Geometra poecilaria Herrich-Schffer, 1854) and Psilocladia Warren, 1898 (type species: P. obliquata Warren, 1898) are retained as valid genera and the latter is excluded from the tribe Gonodontini; in addition, Procypha Warren, 1897 stat. rev. (type species P. maculosata Warren, 1897) is reinstated from synonymy with Xenimpia. As a consequence of the revised generic classification, the following new combinations are established: Bambenga repudiosa (Prout, 1915) comb. nov., Arebatia albicaput (Fletcher, 1956) comb. nov., A. angusta (Prout, 1915) comb. nov., A. burgessi (Carcasson, 1964) comb. nov., A. ceres (Karisch, 2020) comb. nov., A. chalepa (Prout, 1915) comb. nov., A. clenchi (Viette, 1980) comb. nov., A. conformis (Warren, 1898) comb. nov., A. crassimedia (Herbulot, 1996) comb. nov., A. crassipecten (Herbulot, 1961) comb. nov., A. fletcheri (Herbulot, 1954) comb. nov., A. flexuosa (Herbulot, 1996) comb. nov., A. informis (Swinhoe, 1904) comb. nov., A. kala (Herbulot, 1973) comb. nov., A. karischi (Herbulot, 1996) comb. nov., A. loile (Carcasson, 1964) comb. nov., A. loxostigma (Prout, 1915) comb. nov., A. luxuriosa (Herbulot, 1961) comb. nov., A. spinosivalvis (Herbulot, 1996) comb. nov., A. tetracantha (Herbulot, 1973) comb. nov., A. vastata (Herbulot, 1996) comb. nov., Claudimpia diaereta (Prout, 1923) comb. nov., C. misogyna (Carcasson, 1962) comb. nov., C. soricina (Herbulot, 1973) comb. nov., Paracoenina dentataria (Swinhoe, 1904) comb. nov., P. aegyptiaca (Rebel, 1906) comb. nov., P. islamitica (Amsel, 1935) comb. nov., Procypha transmarina (Herbulot, 1961) comb. nov. and P. dohertyi (Herbulot, 1961) comb. nov. Moreover, the genus Procypha is taxonomically revised, including descriptions of five new taxa (P. paradohertyi sp. nov., P. strutzbergi sp. nov., P. strutzbergi caputgalli ssp. nov., P. insolita sp. nov. and P. meyi sp. nov.) and synonymisation of Xenimpia lactesignata Warren, 1914 syn. nov. regarded as a junior synonym of X. maculosata Warren, 1897. Based on diagnostic morphology, the genus Procypha is subdivided into four species groups. The early stages of Procypha maculosata, P. dohertyi and P. strutzbergi Stadie, Lszl & Fiebig sp. nov. are described and depicted, as well as wing patterns and genitalia of all species in this genus are figured. The paper is illustrated with two dendrograms inferred from ML genetic analyses, four distribution maps and 83 colour figures demonstrating the type species of each genus discussed and the adults, genitalia, early stages and habitats of Procypha taxa.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Bartolo AG, Cassar LF, Massa B, et al (2025)

Genetic analysis of a Mediterranean Red-Listed species Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefbvre, 1827) (Orthoptera, Gryllidae).

Zootaxa, 5679(1):83-100.

Brachytrupes megacephalus, the Giant Sand-dune Cricket, which has a restricted distribution across some locations in the Mediterranean and the more arid Sahara, typically colonises psammophilous biocoenoses within coastal and desert regions, including cultivated land where the substrate is characteristically sandy. Recent assessments reported that the species European population trend is in decline. Despite being a Red-listed species of conservation interest, it has not yet been studied genetically. The present study examines B. megacephalus specimens from Mediterranean locations in Sicily, Linosa, Sardinia, Malta, Gozo, and Libya, in addition to specimens of allied taxa from West Africa and the Far East. Barcode sequencing was carried out for fragments of the small (12SrRNA, ~400 bp) and large (16srRNA, ~500 bp) mitochondrial ribosomal subunits, the small nuclear ribosomal subunit (18SrRNA, ~650 bp), the large nuclear ribosomal unit (28SA, ~400 bp rRNA), the gene coding for H3 protein (H3, ~330 bp) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1 ~600 bp). Subsequent phylogenetic analyses supported this clade as separate (at species level) from Brachytrupes membranaceus, which is the only other congener for which sequence data exists in online DNA libraries.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Huemer P, J Umpich (2025)

New species and interesting records of Spiniphallellus Bidzilya & Karsholt, 2008, from Kyrgyzstan (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae).

Zootaxa, 5679(1):133-142.

Spiniphallellus minimus sp. nov., a new species of the recently described gelechiid genus Spiniphallellus Bidzilya & Karsholt, 2008, is described from Kyrgyzstan. Key diagnostic characters are found in the external morphology, particularly the short forewing length, and in the male genitalia, supported by divergence in DNA barcodes. In addition, S. stonisi Bidzilya & Karsholt, 2008, previously known only from the holotype, is reported from Kyrgyzstan for the first time and redescribed, including its previously unknown female. Adults and male genitalia of both species, as well as the female genitalia of S. stonisi, are illustrated.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Matsushima Y, Blcu MJ, K Kakui (2025)

Atlantapseudes tridens sp. nov. (Tanaidacea: Apseudidae) from the Okinawa Trough, Japan, with a note on the taxonomic status of Atlantapseudes curvatus.

Zootaxa, 5679(4):484-500.

The deep-sea apseudid genus Atlantapseudes Bcescu, 1978 currently contains six described species. The distinction between the type species (A. nigrichela Bcescu, 1978) and A. curvatus Esquete & Cunha, 2017 is problematic, because it is unclear whether the holotype for A. nigrichela has a tridentate or monodentate rostrum. We observed and redescribed the type material of A. nigrichela and concluded that A. nigrichela and A. curvatus are conspecific, i.e., the latter is a junior synonym of the former. Additionally, we amended the diagnosis of A. nigrichela and treated the form of A. nigrichela with a monodentate rostrum in Bcescu (1978) as an unidentified species. We also found that Atlantapseudes sp. sensu Kakui et al. (2011), the first record of this genus from the North Pacific, was undescribed; here we describe it as Atlantapseudes tridens sp. nov. The new species resembles A. nigrichela in having a tridentate rostrum but differs in having (1) pereonites 13 without posterolateral spines; (2) a tiny anterolateral spine on pereonite-6; (3) two distal bifurcate spiniform setae on the labial palp; and (4) one outer distal seta on maxillipedal palp article-2. We present a partial nucleotide sequence for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from A. tridens sp. nov. for future DNA barcoding.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Pei V, Zawal A, Bankowska A, et al (2025)

Exploring the water mite fauna (Acari, Hydrachnidia) of the Madeira archipelago: DNA Barcoding reveals a remarkable species endemicity.

Zootaxa, 5621(5):501-513.

Water mites represent the group with the highest degree of endemism among all macroinvertebrates living in freshwater habitats of Madeira. The water mite fauna of this archipelago has been well known for a long time, but until now they have not been molecularly investigated. So far, 25 species of water mites have been recorded, most of them endemic to Madeira. The library presented here covers 584 COI DNA barcodes grouped into 23 Barcode Index Numbers (BINs), which represent the genetic barcodes of 23 species (more than 80% of the known Madeira water mite fauna). Our study shows that COI barcode clusters generated by the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) matches to morphological identifications of specimens, with one exception in the family Lebertiidae. A large-scale comparison of the new sequences with those available in public databases such as BOLD confirmed the uniqueness of the genetic diversity of water mites inhabiting Madeira. Neumania atlantida Lundblad, 1941, a species previously synonymized with N. uncinata Walter, 1927, is resurrected as a valid species. Additionally, genetic data revealed that Sperchon brevirostris Koenike, 1895, a species common in freshwaters of Europe and Macaronesia, consists of multiple genetic lineages, one of which is restricted to Madeira. Finally, our research revealed three species new to the water mite fauna of Madeira, i.e., Hydrachna skorikowi Piersig, 1900, Arrenurus bicuspidator Berlese, 1885 and Lebertia algeriensis Lundblad, 1942. The latter species, found to be common in the running waters of the island, may be the first species of water mite documented as potentially, if not invasive, then non-indigenous in freshwater ecosystems of Madeira.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Ancillotto L, Serafini E, Viviano A, et al (2025)

DNA-barcoding and ecological niche analysis of Wart Biters (Decticus spp.) from an endemism hotspot (Tettigoniidae: Tettigoniinae).

Zootaxa, 5621(5):547-559.

Understanding biogeographical patterns is a challenging task, particularly in the case of poorly studied organisms, whose phylogenetic affinities and ecological needs are not yet understood. Such a case is common among invertebrates and particularly among insects, whose extensive diversity may hamper full and deep comprehension of their ecological and evolutionary patterns. Within insects, orthopterans also represent a relatively poorly studied group. Building knowledge upon biogeography and evolution of orthopterans may provide key insights to their conservation, especially in the case of range-restricted taxa that are inherently more vulnerable, and prone to extinction. In this study we thus applied an integrated approach, combining DNA-barcoding and ecological niche modelling, for investigating the diversity of wart biters (Orthoptera Tettigoniidae, genus Decticus). We particularly aimed at providing a first screening of the molecular identity of species within the genus, and an assessment of their macro-ecological needs. We analysed mitochondrial DNA (cytochrome oxidase I COI) and bioclimatic niche data for the four Decticus species that occur in the Italian Peninsula (D. verrucivorus, D. albifrons, D. loudoni, and D. aprutianus), reconstructing their phylogenetic relationships based on molecular approaches, and comparing their ecological preferences. We provide COI sequences for all the species found in Italy, including the first one available for two endemic ones. We found a clear molecular differentiation among the four species, with D. albifrons being the most distinct and basal taxon, as based on the COI sequence adopted. Our results also bring evidence of significant ecological niche differentiation, with each species occupying a distinct portion of the climatic space available within Italy. Notably, the two range-restricted and short-winged species, D. loudoni and D. aprutianus, result as sister taxa according to COI, and exhibit greater ecological specialisation compared to the more widespread species. Besides, we also highlight significant intra-taxon diversity for both D. verrucivorus sensu stricto and D. albifrons, suggesting that further research on potential intraspecific variability may be needed to clarify the taxonomic position of Italian populations. The observed genetic divergence and ecological niche differentiation found among wart biters suggest that adaptation to different ecological conditions may have played a role in the diversification of these range-restricted species. Our results confirmed the importance of the Italian Peninsula as a biodiversity hotspot for Orthoptera and provide a solid baseline for more in-depth molecular studies, besides providing novel sequences that may be used for e.g., DNA metabarcoding or eDNA campaigns. Further research is in fact needed to explore the specific ecological factors driving niche differentiation in this and other taxa, and to investigate the evolutionary pathways that led to the genus current diversity and distribution.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Xu ZB, Grehan JR, Yang ZY, et al (2025)

Two new species of Palpifer Hampson (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) from Yunnan, China.

Zootaxa, 5621(5):560-570.

Two new species of the genus Palpifer Hampson, 1893 are described. The first species, named P. qinglai sp. nov. from Yunnan University in Kunming, Yunnan, China, is similar to P. sexnotatus (Moore, 1879) but distinguished by differences in forewing pattern, male genitalia structure and DNA barcode sequence. The second species, named P. bazi sp. nov. from Mengzi, Honghe, Yunnan, China, resembles P. boonei Grehan & Mielke, 2019 but also differs in the same characteristics.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Shafaie S, Pekr S, D Ortiz (2025)

Integrative taxonomy of the Iberian Zodarion species of the rubidum and styliferum groups (Araneae: Zodariidae).

Zootaxa, 5624(1):1-69.

Zodarion, one of the most diverse zodariid spider genera, has recently garnered significant interest due to its peculiar adaptations for stringent ant-eating specialization. However, species identification within this genus remains challenging, as many Zodarion species are still insufficiently documented. This study revisits the taxonomy of Iberian species within the rubidum and styliferum groups, which together comprise 25 of the 171 species in the genus. Detailed morphological documentation is provided, including photographs and SEM images of key taxonomic characters, presented here for the first time. Molecular characterizations were also conducted to facilitate future species identification and to investigate patterns of mitochondrial variation within and between species. Notably, Z. extraneum has been reinstated as a distinct species. The male of Z. extraneum and the female of Z. alentejanum are described for the first time, while the female of Z. viduum is redescribed. Additionally, the species Z. alentejanum, Z. bosmansi, Z. guadianense and Z. lusitanicum have been assigned to the styliferum group. Three new synonyms are proposed: Z. brevicephalus with Z. styliferum, Z. duriense with Z. bacelarae, and Z. parastyliferum with Z. extraneum. Pairwise interspecific divergences between individual sequences generally exceeded intraspecific variation, and the mitochondrial gene tree recovered all but one species as monophyletic groups, underscoring the utility of molecular barcoding for identifying Zodarion species. However, interspecific distances between consensus sequences often blurred species boundaries. Our integrative taxonomic study provides tools for improved identification of Zodarion species, facilitating further research into their biology.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Naderi A, Hagen WT, V Nazari (2025)

Molecular phylogeny of Hipparchia Fabricius, 1807 (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Satyrinae) with description of an overlooked species from the Zagros mountains, Iran.

Zootaxa, 5636(2):361-375.

Using sequence data from four nuclear genes alongside DNA barcodes, we reconstructed the evolutionary history of genus Hipparchia Fabricius, 1807. Our phylogeny supported the previously proposed subgeneric classification for the genus and revealed an overlooked taxon close to H. fatua (Freyer, 1845) from the Zagros mountain range in Western Iran, here described as a new species, Hipparchia lunulata sp. nov. We also confirm that the range of H. fatua sichaea (Lederer, 1857), originally described from Beirut, extends to the westernmost part of the Zagros mountains in Iran.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Semenchenko AA, EA Makarchenko (2025)

On the taxonomy and distribution of Diamesa gregsoni Edwards, (Diptera: Chironomidae: Diamesinae), with morphological redescription and DNA barcoding of species from the Far East.

Zootaxa, 5636(3):499-510.

By analyzing the DNA barcoding data of the Diamesa gregsoni Edwards syntype, we carried out a genetic study of this species from the Far East and made a comparison with DNA barcodes of North American populations. A morphological redescription of the adult male and a description of the pupa and larva are given, and the taxonomy and distribution of the species are clarified in this study. The Bayesian tree revealed two well-supported clades of D. gregsoni from Nearctic and Palaearctic. The average K2P genetic divergence between these clades was 1.67%, which corresponds to intraspecific differences. Overall intraspecific p-distances within 23 DNA barcodes of D. gregsoni were 1.19%. The Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD), Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP), and Multi-rate Poisson tree processes (mPTP) approaches for the species delimitation confirmed that Nearctic and Palaearctic DNA barcodes belong to a single molecular taxonomic unit, while general mixed Yule-coalescent (GMYC) delimit the dataset into three different molecular operational taxonomic units (mOTU).

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

David KJ, Mahammed NRN, Hancock DL, et al (2025)

Taxonomic notes on Oriental bamboo-shoot fruit fly genus Acroceratitis Hendel (Diptera: Tephritidae: Dacinae: Gastrozonini), with description of a new species from India.

Zootaxa, 5637(1):83-98.

A new species of Acroceratitis Hendel, namely Acroceratitis sachini David, Hancock & Noor is described from Western Ghats, Karnataka, India. Diagnoses of all 11 species of Acroceratitis recorded from India along with an updated key to all described species is provided. DNA barcode sequences of A. sachini, A. parastriata David & Hancock, A. ceratitina (Bezzi), A. incompleta Hardy, A. histrionica (Meijere) and A. tomentosa Hardy were obtained and are reported. Phylogenetic analysis using mt COI revealed Acroceratitis to be monophyletic.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Rajgopal NN, Ramaiah M, Rai S, et al (2025)

Shanaya: A new leafhopper genus of the tribe Mukariini (Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) with two new species discovered and described from India.

Zootaxa, 5637(2):383-393.

A new genus, Shanaya gen. nov., is proposed within the tribe Mukariini, based on the discovery of two new species from India that could not be assigned to any previously described genera. Detailed morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations are provided for both species: Shanaya spatulata gen. et sp. nov. (Type species, India: Himachal Pradesh) and Shanaya abeeri gen. et sp. nov. (India: Karnataka). Morphological evidence supports their classification under this new genus. A distribution map, along with identification keys to the genera of Mukariini of India and species of the new genus, are included. Its tribal placement, as well as similarities and differences with related genera, are also discussed. DNA barcodes (partial mitochondrial COI sequences) were generated for Shanaya spatulata gen. et sp. nov. and submitted to NCBI GenBank. All type specimens are housed in the National Pusa Collection (NPC), ICARIndian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru (UASB) and National Insect Museum, ICARNational Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru (NIM).

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Divelec RL, D Michez (2025)

Taxonomic revision of the garrulus species group in the bee genus Hylaeus Fabricius, 1793 (Hymenoptera: Apoidea, Colletidae).

Zootaxa, 5642(2):127-146.

The species group of Hylaeus garrulus (Warncke, 1981) encompasses three rare Iberian endemics. Because of the dubious association of sexes and species concepts, their consistent identification have remained difficult. By the mean of barcoding and morphology, we aim to accurately associate males and females of the group. As a result, H. convergens Dathe 2000 is found to be a junior synonym of H. teruelus (Warncke, 1981) syn. nov., and the female previously assigned to H. teruelus belongs to a new species, H. woodi Le Divelec, sp. nov. This study also revealed that the previous lack of a clear diagnosis for the garrulus group resulted in the erroneous report of H. gazagnairei (Vachal, 1891) in Europe; this species is actually absent from this region. A comparative diagnosis of the garrulus group is therefore provided to facilitate the identification of its members.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Han S, S Shin (2025)

First records of the genus Acerocnema Becker (Diptera: Scathophagidae) from South Korea, with a new species and a newly recorded species using DNA barcodes.

Zootaxa, 5653(3):440-450.

This study reports the first Korean records of the genus Acerocnema Becker, 1894, with one new species, Acerocnema saurischia sp. nov., and one newly recorded species, A. flavifrons Iwasa. A key to the Korean Acerocnema is provided with morphological diagnosis and images of habitus and male genitalia structures. To assist in species identification, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences were obtained from all specimens to assess DNA barcoding.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Costa DA, Rocha S, Martins D, et al (2025)

Filling in another piece of the puzzle: Using Integrative Taxonomy to establish yet another new species of Hediste (Annelida, Polychaeta, Nereididae).

Zootaxa, 5696(1):28-40.

One of the most prevalent autochthonous polychaete taxa in the European Atlantic and Mediterranean seas is the genus Hediste (Nereididae, Polychaeta, Annelida). Its species provide food for aquatic life, such as fish and crustaceans, playing significant ecological roles in trophic webs. Until 2022, only the species Hediste diversicolor was referenced for Atlantic and Mediterranean waters; nonetheless, it is a cryptic species, in which Hediste pontii in the Adriatic Sea, and Hediste astae in the Aegean, Black, Caspian, and Baltic seas have recently been established. In this paper, we propose a new species of polychaete, Hediste sinesimplex sp. nov. for the Western Mediterranean, Baltic and Eastern North seas, based on an integrative approach, focusing on traditional taxonomy and DNA barcoding analysis. In addition to the morphological description, we have also included 3D models of this new species to exemplify the use of this technique for in-depth morphological description.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Fiemapong ARN, Blandenier Q, Tamesse JL, et al (2025)

Taxonomic review of the Afrotropical millipede genus Scaptodesmus Cook, 1896 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Chelodesmidae), with integrative descriptions of three new species from Cameroon.

Zootaxa, 5696(3):361-384.

The genus Scaptodesmus Cook, 1896, is revised based on recent material collected from Cameroon. Three new species are described and illustrated: S. kala sp. nov., S. manengouba sp. nov., and S. vandenspiegeli sp. nov. Additionally, the diagnoses of two old and well-defined species of the genus, S. porati Cook, 1896, and S. granulosus (Attems, 1931), are revised. The species Scaptodesmus dentatus Silvestri, 1909, previously regarded as incertae sedis, is here confirmed as such, since its taxonomic affiliation remains uncertain. An identification key to and a distribution map for all Scaptodesmus species known so far are provided. Barcoding base on COI sequencing was successfully performed for all three new species and compared with previously published sequences from the family Chelodesmidae. The results reveal that the three new species are all genetically distinct from one another. A maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree constructed using the dataset of available species resulted in a well-resolved and well-supported phylogeny. In all cases, barcoding data were consistent with traditional morphological taxonomic classifications. This work highlights the importance of integrated taxonomy in resolving relationships within millipede species groups below the family level.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Gao Y, Y Bu (2025)

Three new species of Philotella (Collembola, Neanuridae, Pseudachorutinae) from China with the DNA barcoding analysis.

Zootaxa, 5701(2):179-190.

Three new species of the genus Philotella are reported from China, Philotella huadongensis sp. nov. from Jiangsu, Shanghai and Zhejiang, Philotella varisensillata sp. nov. from Hubei, Philotella fuxii sp. nov. from Henan. An updated key to the world species of the genus is also provided. In addition, the DNA barcodes of P. huadongensis sp. nov. were sequenced and genetic distances of the species in the subfamily Pseudachorutinae was analyzed.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Fang Z, Hu W, McCormack K, et al (2025)

New species of rose gall wasp Diplolepis Geoffroy, 1762 (Hymenoptera: Diplolepididae) and its parasitoid Orthopelma Taschenberg, 1865 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) on a rare endemic rose species in Sichuan, China.

Zootaxa, 5706(2):231-246.

We describe a new species of rose gall wasp from Sichuan, China, Diplolepis nezha Hu, Zhang, McCormack & Fang, sp. nov. (Diplolepididae: Diplolepidinae), which induces galls on the rare, endemic rose Rosa chinensis var. spontanea (Rehder & E.H. Wilson) T.T. Yu & T.C. Ku. In association with these galls, we also describe a new parasitoid species, Orthopelma aobing Hu, Zhang, Dal Pos, McCormack & Fang, sp. nov. (Ichneumonidae: Orthopelmatinae). DNA barcodes were used to confirm the identities of both new species. We provide updated dichotomous keys incorporating these taxa and briefly discuss their biology in the context of other East Asian species, informed by phylogenetic analyses.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Saldaitis A, Lien VV, Junnila A, et al (2025)

Two new mainland sister species for the Taiwanese Bharetta owadai (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae, Lasiocampinae, Argudini).

Zootaxa, 5633(3):470-484.

Bharetta owadai Kishida, 1986, was considered a widespread Indomalayan species occurring in Taiwan (type-locality), mainland China and Vietnam. Study of the genitalia of adults and barcoding showed that the taxon is a group of sister species. Allopatric Taiwanese and mainland populations have a slight difference in male genitalia and a distinct genetic distance of 3.264.56 %, which allowed description of the mainland population as a new species, Bharetta sarah sp. nov. known from Guanxi (type-locality) and Jianxi Provinces in China, and northern Vietnam. The second new species, Bharetta hanne sp. nov., has distinct male genitalia and is found on Fansipan Mountain (type-locality) and a nearby mountain ridge. Adults, their genitalia, distribution map, and phylogenetic tree are illustrated.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Joshi R, Zahiri R, Banerjee D, et al (2025)

A catalogue of the Erebidae of India (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea).

Zootaxa, 5635(1):1-247.

The present catalogue comprises 2,203 valid species in 562 genera of Erebidae from India. Of the 19 known subfamilies of Erebidae (including Strepsimaninae as incertae sedis), all are represented in the subcontinent except for the New World subfamily Scolecocampinae. Arctiinae are the most diverse, with 737 species, and Eulepidotinae and Strepsimaninae are the least diverse, each represented by a single species. We follow the classification proposed by Zahiri et al. (2012) and utilized DNA barcoding combined with multigene data analysis to determine the phylogenetic position of uncertain moth species. The taxonomic status of Strepsimaninae is still unclear and thus is included here as incertae sedis. The type locality, first reference, synonymy, and distribution within and outside India are provided for each of the included species. A replacement name Ophiusa neotirhaca Singh & Joshi, nom. nov. is provided for Ophiusa pseudotirhaca Singh & Ranjan, 2016, a junior homonym of Ophiusa pseudotirhaca (Berio, 1956: 24). Artaxa guttata, syn. nov. is synonymised with Artaxa digramma. Lygephila sanjauliensis Rose & Srivastava, 1989, comb. nov. is established.

RevDate: 2025-10-21

Wang RH, Zhang ZC, Feng HY, et al (2025)

Larval morphology and DNA barcode of Synorthocladius bifidus Liu & Wang, 2005 (Diptera: Chironomidae).

Zootaxa, 5660(1):139-146.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Haas MC, Bahder BW, CR Bartlett (2025)

A new species of Anotia Westwood from Bonaire and Curaao (Fulgoromorpha: Fulgoroidea: Derbidae: Otiocerini).

Zootaxa, 5627(3):539-550.

A new species in the genus Anotia Kirby, 1821 was collected in a malaise trap during a recent collecting event on Bonaire, Dutch Antilles. A single female of the same species, collected at light on Curaao in 1957, was found in the collection of the Naturalis Biodiversity Center. Here Anotia posa sp. nov. is described and molecular data for the barcoding region (5 half) of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 18S rRNA gene and D9D10 expansion region of the 28S rRNA gene is provided. Some records of a second undescribed Anotia from Curaao are included.

RevDate: 2025-10-21
CmpDate: 2025-10-21

Wang B, Li X, F Kong (2025)

Female association of seven species of the genus Amphinemura Ris, 1902 (Nemouridae: Amphinemurinae) in China based on morphological and molecular data.

Zootaxa, 5631(1):137-152.

Females of seven known species of nemourid stoneflies, Amphinemura claviloba (Wu, 1973), A. dabanshana Li, Du & Yang, 2017, A. hastata (Wu, 1973), A. multispina (Wu, 1973), A. ningxiana Li & Yang, 2011, A. pediformis Li & Yang, 2008 and A. qiliana Li, Teslenko & Yang, 2020, are described in this paper. DNA barcoding analysis confirmed the association between males and females, thus validating the morphological taxonomic conclusions.

RevDate: 2025-10-20
CmpDate: 2025-10-20

Hohl T, Bönisch U, Manke T, et al (2025)

Enhancing single-cell ATAC sequencing with formaldehyde fixation, cryopreservation, and multiplexing for flexible analysis.

BMC research notes, 18(1):437.

OBJECTIVE: The need for freshly isolated cells in bulk or single cell ATAC-seq experiments creates considerable logistical barriers and increases susceptibility to batch effects. This makes it difficult to coordinate complex or longitudinal studies. Our goal was to develop a sample preservation strategy that overcomes these limitations, enabling consistent and high-quality chromatin accessibility profiling from archived samples.

RESULTS: We established a workflow that incorporates mild formaldehyde fixation prior to cryopreservation, preserving both bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq data quality at levels comparable to fresh samples in HepG2 cells. This protocol reliably maintains key data quality metrics, including signal-to-noise ratio and fragment distributions. Furthermore, the method is fully compatible with transposase-based sample multiplexing using custom Tn5 barcodes. To address barcode hopping inherent to multiplexing, we introduced a computational demultiplexing strategy based on fragment ratios, which accurately assigns single cells to their sample of origin. Our approach streamlines experimental logistics and ensures reproducibility across diverse and temporally dispersed samples, broadening the scope for ATAC-seq-based studies, including those in clinical research settings where coordinated sample collection is challenging.

RevDate: 2025-10-20
CmpDate: 2025-10-20

Jin H, Wang Y, Song C, et al (2025)

First morphological description of the larval stages of three Microtendipes species (Diptera, Chironomidae) from South China with molecular confirmation.

ZooKeys, 1255:27-40.

This study presents the first integrated morphological and molecular characterization of larvae from three Microtendipes species, Microtendipes baishanzuensis Song & Qi, 2023, Microtendipes robustus Song & Qi, 2023 and Microtendipes tuberosus Qi & Wang, 2006, collected from subtropical streams in China, providing important insights for advancing Chironomidae taxonomy. Using detailed morphometric analysis (head capsule ratios, mandibular pecten length, and striae counts) in conjunction with mitochondrial COI barcoding, we established larval-adult associations and differentiated these species from their congeners. Microtendipes baishanzuensis is characterized by a brownish head capsule with distinctly paler median teeth compared to the lateral teeth, the longest mandibular pecten within the genus, the highest number of body striae, and an exceptionally anteriorly positioned ring organ. Microtendipes robustus is distinguished by a uniformly dark brown mentum, remarkably wide ventromental plates, the most variable striae count, and a medium-sized mandibular pecten. Microtendipes tuberosus exhibits a uniformly dark brown mentum with median teeth conspicuously shorter than the second lateral teeth, the smallest body size in the genus, the shortest mandibular pecten, the fewest striae, and the most posteriorly located ring organ. A revised larval key for Chinese Microtendipes is presented, improving freshwater biomonitoring and addressing challenges associated with cryptic diversity.

RevDate: 2025-10-20
CmpDate: 2025-10-20

Zhang J, Zhang C, Xing Y, et al (2025)

A survey of the spider genus Lipocrea Thorell, 1878 (Araneae, Araneidae) from Guiyang City, Southwest China: An integrated morphological and molecular approach.

ZooKeys, 1255:207-237.

A survey was undertaken to study the spider genus Lipocrea Thorell, 1878, from Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, southwest China. A total of two species is here addressed based on morphology and five methods of molecular species delimitation, comprising L. guiyang J. Zhang, Yu & Mi, sp. nov. and L. fusiformis (Thorell, 1877), the type species of the genus as well as a new record for mainland China. These two species are distributed in Huaxi District and Kaiyang County of Guiyang, respectively, providing the first formal record of this genus from mainland China.

RevDate: 2025-10-20
CmpDate: 2025-10-20

Sousa J, Lutz Í, Santana P, et al (2025)

Molecular identification based on mtDNA analysis of commercial crustaceans in the coastal Amazon: exotic species, cryptic diversity, and implications for sustainable fisheries in northern Brazil.

PeerJ, 13:e19586.

BACKGROUND: Located around the Caeté River estuary, the municipality of Bragança is one of the primary fishing hubs in the region. Several high-value crustacean species are intensively harvested in this area and are commonly sold at open-air markets. However, fishery products are often labeled with generic trade names, which hinders accurate species identification and conceals the true diversity of the exploited species.

METHODS: Therefore, we conducted the molecular identification of crustacean species sold in Bragança. Samples were collected during two periods: from February to August 2017, and from September 2021 to May 2022. A total of 137 samples were analyzed, including 120 obtained from markets and 17 collected from the wild. Specimens were first identified morphologically, and two regions of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene were amplified for molecular identification. Genetic analyses included haplotype determination, Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) comparisons, phylogenetic tree construction, and species delimitation approaches.

RESULTS: We obtained a dataset comprising 16 commercial names and 151 DNA sequences, including 38 sequences from region I (the barcode region) and 113 sequences from region II of the COI gene. A total of 15 crustacean species, belonging to seven genera and five families, were identified. Six of these species were classified as exotic, and three were recently described in the scientific literature. Additionally, we documented the occurrence of two distinct lineages of Penaeus monodon along the Brazilian coast. Molecular species delimitation tools effectively identified all sampled taxa and revealed underestimated levels of biodiversity due to the use of generic commercial names. This issue poses a potential threat to the long-term sustainability of fishery resources and commercial fishing in northern Brazil, as it leads to biased qualitative and quantitative assessments of fishery products.

RevDate: 2025-10-20
CmpDate: 2025-10-20

Rudresh HS, Yathisha NS, Vaishnavi SL, et al (2025)

A combination of morphological, biochemical and structural responses is required for desiccation tolerance in Selaginella repanda.

Physiology and molecular biology of plants : an international journal of functional plant biology, 31(9):1575-1587.

The innate ability for desiccation tolerance in Selaginella repanda was determined by evaluating the physiological and biochemical modifications that occur during water loss and gain, in different stages namely, hydrated (H), desiccation (D), and rehydrated stages (R). Herbarium JCB and rbcl gene barcoding were used for its identification. In the desiccated stage, relative water content (RWC) was 8.3% which regained to 96.8% in R stage. Leaf water potential decreased to -3.8MPa in D stage. Scanning electron microscopic images shows significant modification of stomata and cell in D and R stages. Scanning electron microscopic images shows significant modification of stomata and cell in D and R stages. Total chlorophyll (0.9-fold) and carotenoids (0.7-fold) concentrations were found to be reduced during D stage, when compared to H stage. Concentration of anthocyanin (1.14-fold), proline (2.9-fold) and lipid peroxidation (1.9-fold) were found to be significantly high in D stage. Carbon dioxide exchange rate (- 0.6 µ mol m[-2] s[-1]) was negative during D stage. Also, activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (1.7-fold), catalase (2.57-fold) and peroxidase (5.5-fold) were found to be significantly increased in D stage. Sucrose concentration (4.7-fold) also increased during desiccation. The quantity of starch (0.5-fold) was lower in the D stage. In R stage, all biochemical parameters tested above were significantly similar to that in the H stage. S. repanda exhibits constitutive and inducible repair mechanism towards desiccation and can therefore serve as model to study desiccation in Selaginella species.

RevDate: 2025-10-20

Sheedy A, AA Davinack (2025)

Seasonal dynamics of Polydora infestation in eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) from a tidally restricted New England estuary.

Journal of invertebrate pathology, 214:108472 pii:S0022-2011(25)00206-X [Epub ahead of print].

Shell-boring polychaetes of the genus Polydora pose a significant threat to oyster aquaculture worldwide, yet little is known about their seasonal dynamics in tidally restricted estuaries. This study investigates the prevalence, intensity, and environmental covariates of Polydora websteri infestation in wild eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) over a 12-month period in the Herring River estuary (Cape Cod, Massachusetts), a system slated for tidal restoration. Oysters were collected monthly, and worms identified morphologically and by COI barcoding. Infestations were observed year-round, with prevalence and intensity lowest in late summer and peaking in fall-winter. Gravid females were only observed from April through August, indicating a seasonal reproductive window. The seasonal peak in visible infestation and pathology in colder months is therefore consistent with a lag between summer recruitment and subsequent shell damage. Using a Gaussian generalized linear model as a descriptive correlational tool, we observed a negative association between temperature and monthly mean intensity at this site and year; salinity and pH showed no detectable association. These associations are interpreted within the seasonal/lag context rather than as casual drivers. Overall, this work provides baseline data on seasonal Polydora dynamics in the Herring River estuary that will be essential for future, post-restoration assessments.

RevDate: 2025-10-18

Byamukama D, Ndekezi C, Omara D, et al (2025)

Validation of High-throughput Oxford Nanopore Technology for HIV-1 Transmitted/Founder Virus Identification.

International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases pii:S1201-9712(25)00360-1 [Epub ahead of print].

HIV-1 transmitted/founder (T/F) viruses cause 80-90% of heterosexual transmissions, making their rapid identification vital for vaccine and cure development. Single-genome amplification (SGA) followed by Sanger sequencing is the gold standard for Transmitted/Founder detection, but low throughput and high cost limit its scalability. Here, we evaluated Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) as a high-throughput alternative. We sequenced 195 archived HIV-1 single genome amplicons (SGAs) from 20 acutely infected participants, encompassing both 3' and 5' genome halves. Libraries were prepared with end repair, native barcoding, and adapter ligation, then sequenced on a MinION MK1C device with R9.4 flow cells. Data processing included read, filtering, error correction, and haplotype reconstruction. T/F viruses were identified using Highlighter plots and by applying a criterion of intra-patient mean pairwise diversity <0.60%, together with phylogenetic clustering, with the sequence most closely related to the most recent common ancestor (MRCA) designated as the T/F virus. Phylogenetic analysis showed strong concordance between ONT and Sanger sequences, with 100% bootstrap support. ONT identified 35 of 39 T/F viruses detected by Sanger, achieving 89.70% sensitivity. Sequence similarity between ONT and Sanger derived T/Fs averaged of 99.81% (95% CI: 99.76-99.87%), ranging from 99.45-99.96%. These findings demonstrate ONT's promise as a reliable, high-throughput alternative for HIV-1 T/F identification. Advances such as the Dorado basecaller and Q20+ chemistry are expected to further improve ONT's accuracy, supporting its use in large-scale, resource-limited settings.

RevDate: 2025-10-17
CmpDate: 2025-10-18

Fan YJ, Li CG, Ma C, et al (2025)

Holistic approach for plant species circumscription integrating standard barcodes, chloroplast genomes, single-copy nuclear genes and micro-morphological data: a case study in Epimedium (Berberidaceae).

BMC genomics, 26(1):931.

BACKGROUND: Accurate plant species circumscription is fundamental to biodiversity conservation, medicinal resource development, and ecological research. Yet challenges such as sample incompleteness and reliance on limited molecular markers often hinder precise species circumscription. A single identification method-molecular or morphological-is in most cases not sufficient to accurately recognize plant species. Notably, single-copy nuclear genes, despite their critical importance in resolving species circumscription through higher evolutionary rates and biparental inheritance, remain underexplored in current research. A critical next step is developing nuclear genes as DNA barcodes. In some cases, micro-morphological characteristics mirror molecular evidence and confirm species identification. Epimedium (Berberidaceae), well known for its medical and horticultural significance, remains poorly understood taxonomically due to its phenotypic diversity. It is an ideal taxon to explore integrative plant species circumscription combining molecular and micro-morphological data.

RESULTS: Chloroplast genome structure analysis revealed that the variations near the IR/SC boundary, the unique trnQ-UUG gene rearrangement, and the repeat sequences in Epimedium hold significant evolutionary implications. It not only uncovered the conservation and specificity of genomic structures but also provided novel insights into the phylogeny and molecular evolution of this genus. We identified eight hypervariable regions in Epimedium species that emerged as strong candidates for potential DNA special barcodes. These regions and the whole chloroplast genome showed higher species discriminability compared to standard barcodes. Single-copy nuclear genes were more useful in species circumscription over chloroplast genomes. Furthermore, micro-morphological characteristics served as strong complementary evidence for species circumscription and could help distinguish species that were unresolved using only molecular or genomic analyses.

CONCLUSIONS: Using Epimedium as a case study, we propose a Multilayer Precision Species Circumscription Approach (MPSCA), a diagnostic framework that combines standard barcodes, chloroplast genome, single-copy nuclear genes, and micro-morphological data.

RevDate: 2025-10-17
CmpDate: 2025-10-17

Roy L, Uranw S, Rai K, et al (2025)

Mapping the distribution of phlebotomine sand fly species with emphasis on Leishmania vectors in Nepal and exploring the potential of DNA barcoding for their identification.

Scientific reports, 15(1):36356.

Nepal is committed to eliminating visceral leishmaniasis as a public health problem by 2030. The scattered distribution of VL cases across wide geo-ecological regions, including areas previously considered unsuitable for the survival of vectors and the transmission of the pathogen, poses a major threat to Nepal's national VL elimination programme. Regular monitoring and accurate identification of sand fly species are essential for implementing tailored vector control interventions. Hence, this study aimed to update the distribution of sand fly species with a focus on Leishmania vectors and evaluate DNA barcoding as a complementary tool for their identification. Sand flies were collected from 43 districts with active VL cases across the country between 2017 and 2022. The mitochondrial COI gene was amplified for DNA barcoding analysis. The primary vector, Phlebotomus argentipes, was present in all except three districts. Potential vectors, Ph. (Adlerius) spp. and Ph. major, were found common in high-altitude regions. The species identification success rate of generated COI barcode sequences based on the "Best Close Match" was 97%, indicating high accuracy in delineating sand flies to the species level. The information on the distribution of phlebotomine sand flies and the potential use of DNA barcoding for their identification could be milestones for sand fly research and help to guide the vector control interventions in support of VL elimination in Nepal.

RevDate: 2025-10-16

Pei Y, Forstmeier W, Suh A, et al (2025)

Evolution of large polymorphic inversions in a panmictic songbird.

Molecular biology and evolution pii:8287915 [Epub ahead of print].

Chromosomal inversions have long been appreciated as an important source of genetic diversity, local adaptation and speciation. However, selection pressures maintaining ancestral and derived alleles at high frequency over extended periods of time remain poorly characterized. Using genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and shared barcodes of linked-read sequences from twenty wild and seven captive zebra finches Taeniopygia guttata, we systematically scanned a high-quality zebra finch reference genome and identified all large polymorphic inversions that segregate at high minor allele frequencies. Apart from the known polymorphic inversions on chromosomes Tgu5, Tug11, Tgu13 and TguZ, we characterized two inversions on microchromosomes Tgu26 and Tgu27 and identified another eight putative inversions, located mostly on microchromosomes and ranging in size from 0.42 to 65.22Mb. Population genomic analyses show that most of the six bona fide inversions are complex, containing short nested inversions. The early inversions emerged an estimated 0.6-2.2 million years ago and segregate at relatively high frequencies in the wild (minor haplotype frequency range: 0.289-0.429). Based on fitness-related measures of about 5,000 captive zebra finches, we conclude that three of the inversion polymorphisms (Tgu11, Tgu27, and TguZ) may be maintained by net heterosis. In the youngest of the six inversions (Tgu13), the derived haplotype showed weak positive additive effects on various fitness components. In combination with previous discoveries, we provide a comprehensive overview of the genomic distribution and evolutionary dynamics of large polymorphic inversions in the panmictic zebra finch. Our findings highlight (1) that microchromosomes may harbor quite a few additional inversion polymorphisms, (2) that most of the inversions contain smaller nested or overlapping inversions, and (3) that inversions were most likely maintained by weak heterosis with small fitness effects requiring large sample sizes to be detected.

RevDate: 2025-10-15

Çubukçu HC (2025)

The role of AI in pre-analytical phase - use cases.

Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine [Epub ahead of print].

The pre-analytical phase of laboratory testing, encompassing processes from test ordering to sample analysis, represents the most error-prone component of laboratory medicine, accounting for 68-98 % of laboratory mistakes. These errors compromise patient safety, increase healthcare costs, and disrupt operational efficiency. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies have emerged as promising solutions to address these challenges across multiple pre-analytical applications. This narrative review examines current AI research applications and commercial implementations across seven key pre-analytical domains: clot detection, wrong blood in tube (WBIT) error detection, sample dilution management, chemical manipulation detection in urine samples, serum quality assessment based on hemolysis/icterus/lipemia (HIL), test utilization optimization, and automated tube handling. Research studies demonstrate impressive performance, with neural networks achieving accuracies exceeding 95 % for clot detection, XGBoost models reaching 98 % accuracy for WBIT detection, and deep learning systems attaining AUCs above 0.94 for test recommendation systems. However, a significant translation gap persists between research prototypes and commercial deployment. Academic models excel at pattern recognition using curated datasets but face limitations including single-center validation, retrospective designs, and integration challenges. Commercial solutions prioritize deterministic controls, barcoding, and sensor-based approaches that ensure reliability and scalability, with limited explicit AI implementation. Successful clinical laboratory translation requires multicenter prospective validation, robust laboratory information system integration, regulatory compliance frameworks, and evaluation metrics focused on operational outcomes rather than solely statistical performance. As infrastructure and standards mature, strategic AI adoption in pre-analytical tasks offers measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

RevDate: 2025-10-15

Bakhshinyan D, Custers S, Escudero L, et al (2025)

Leveraging Medulloblastoma Clonal Dynamics to Overcome Treatment Resistance.

Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Research pii:766660 [Epub ahead of print].

PURPOSE: Medulloblastoma (MB) is a common pediatric brain tumor with distinct molecular subgroups, of which, Group 3 MB is associated with increased recurrence, metastatic potential and poor patient outcomes. Small molecule inhibitors targeting BMI1 have been shown to be efficacious against several types of malignant tumors, including pediatric MB. While our previously published in vivo study provides a promising proof-of-concept for the therapeutic targeting of BMI1 in Group 3 MB with small molecule inhibitor, it is not sufficient to eradicate the tumour.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: In this study, following preclinical validation of BMI1 inhibitor PTC-596, DNA barcoding technology was leveraged to profile in vivo clonal dynamics of Group 3 MB in response to the established chemoradiotherapy regimen alone and in combination with PTC-596. Following demonstration of a small number of treatment-refractory clones we sought to identify potential druggable molecular vulnerabilities by utilizing phosphoproteomic profiling and genome-wide CRISPR screening.

RESULTS: By comparing the changes in phosphorylation pattern of key signaling kinases post PTC-596 treatment with the list of sensitizer genes from in vitro genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 screen and to the essential genes in human neural stem cells (hNSCs), we identified several context-specific regulators of mTOR, AKT and PLK1 pathways. Subsequently, targeting the PI3K pathway with Enzastaurin was shown to be most meanable to synergistic targeting alongside BMI1 inhibition.

CONCLUSION: This work provides the foundation for clinical validation of small-molecule inhibitors synergistic with PTC-596 to improve the durability of remissions and extend survival of patients with treatment-refractory Group 3 MB.

RevDate: 2025-10-14

Zhu Z, Cheng L, Pu T, et al (2025)

Development of molecular markers for marker-assisted breeding and quality evaluation of Aconitum carmichaelii cultivars.

BMC plant biology, 25(1):1373.

BACKGROUND: Aconitum carmichaelii (AC), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, provides substantial economic benefits to the pharmaceutical industry and rural development. Its broad genetic diversity has led to multiple cultivars with distinct biological traits. However, accurately identifying these cultivars is challenging due to the morphological similarities, particularly at the seedling stage. Misidentifying cultivars or selecting inappropriate cultivation regions may lead to crop failure. Moreover, the chemical profiles of different cultivars remain insufficiently characterized. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop rapid and accurate authentication methods and to clarify quality-related differences among AC cultivars.

RESULTS: We sequenced and analyzed the chloroplast (cp) genomes of 26 AC samples and measured the content of their major active compounds. The result revealed that the cp genomes were highly conserved, ranging from 155,880 to 155,891 bp, and contained 42–47 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), primarily mononucleotide repeats. Two DNA barcodes, trnT(GGU)-psbD 1F/1R and trnS(UGA)-psbZ 1F/1R, were identified as effective tools for differentiating between AC cultivars. Phylogenetic analyses clustered the 26 samples into three groups, Suggesting the presence of three distinct cultivars relevant to agricultural production. The divergence time of AC was estimated to be approximately 1.38 million years ago (Mya). Additionally, the total content of monoester alkaloids (benzoylaconitine, benzoylmesaconine, and benzoylhypacoitine) ranged from 0.07 to 0.12 mg/g, while diester alkaloids (aconitine, meaconitine, and hypoaconitine) ranged from 1.22 to 1.82 mg/g. Notably, the YFIII cultivars exhibited the highest levels of monoester alkaloids and lowest levels of diester alkaloids, indicating a potential safety advantage. Furthermore, 11 typical chromatographic peaks were identified through peak alignment and multi-point correction. Among them, the VIP values for P6, P8, and P9 were more significant than 1, suggesting that these peaks may serve as potential markers for quality control in AC cultivars.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight AC cultivars’ significant genetic and chemical diversity. The chloroplast markers trnT(GGU)-psbD 1F/1R and trnS(UGA)-psbZ 1F/1R are practical tools for the precise identification and selective breeding of AC. This genetic diversity likely contributes to variations in the plant’s chemical composition. This study lays an important foundation for the sustainable utilization and conservation of AC genetic resources.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12870-025-07289-w.

RevDate: 2025-10-14
CmpDate: 2025-10-15

Eminoğlu A, İzmirli ŞG, Beriş FŞ, et al (2025)

SSR genotyping of 200 tea (Camellia sinensis) clones obtained by selection and DNA barcoding of 12 varietal registration candidates.

BMC plant biology, 25(1):1381.

Genotype and cultivar identification is essential for conserving tea genetic diversity within plantation ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of high-quality tea production. This study represents the first large-scale genetic characterization of 200 elite varietal candidate tea (Camellia sinensis) clones, which were pre-selected from 2,034 genotypes originating from the Eastern and Western Black Sea regions of Türkiye. Eight polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers located near loci associated with catechin content, including epicatechin (EC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), epigallocatechin (EGC), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), were employed. SSR profiles were generated for all 200 tea clones cultivated in control plots at the National Tea Gene Bank, and the resulting data were additionally used for DNA barcoding of 12 varietal candidate tea clones currently under registration. Among the evaluated markers, TM412 (EGC) exhibited the highest polymorphism information content (PIC = 0.8816), whereas TM376 (EC) showed the lowest (0.4321). Notably, TM412 (EGC) and TM399 (ECG) displayed high PIC values, indicating their strong discriminatory potential for Turkish tea genotypes. The findings indicate that Turkish tea germplasm possesses substantial genetic diversity, and some markers may be effectively utilized in variety registration and breeding efforts. This study presents the first comprehensive molecular characterization of tea genetic resources in Türkiye. It contributes to the long-term conservation of selected clones and supports the variety registration process through DNA barcoding and a QR code-based traceability system. The genetic dataset generated in this work contributed directly to the establishment of Türkiye's first and the world's fifth-largest tea gene pool in Rize Province, providing a valuable reference for strengthening tea genetic resource conservation and breeding programs at both national and global scales.

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RJR Experience and Expertise

Researcher

Robbins holds BS, MS, and PhD degrees in the life sciences. He served as a tenured faculty member in the Zoology and Biological Science departments at Michigan State University. He is currently exploring the intersection between genomics, microbial ecology, and biodiversity — an area that promises to transform our understanding of the biosphere.

Educator

Robbins has extensive experience in college-level education: At MSU he taught introductory biology, genetics, and population genetics. At JHU, he was an instructor for a special course on biological database design. At FHCRC, he team-taught a graduate-level course on the history of genetics. At Bellevue College he taught medical informatics.

Administrator

Robbins has been involved in science administration at both the federal and the institutional levels. At NSF he was a program officer for database activities in the life sciences, at DOE he was a program officer for information infrastructure in the human genome project. At the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, he served as a vice president for fifteen years.

Technologist

Robbins has been involved with information technology since writing his first Fortran program as a college student. At NSF he was the first program officer for database activities in the life sciences. At JHU he held an appointment in the CS department and served as director of the informatics core for the Genome Data Base. At the FHCRC he was VP for Information Technology.

Publisher

While still at Michigan State, Robbins started his first publishing venture, founding a small company that addressed the short-run publishing needs of instructors in very large undergraduate classes. For more than 20 years, Robbins has been operating The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project, a web site dedicated to the digital publishing of critical works in science, especially classical genetics.

Speaker

Robbins is well-known for his speaking abilities and is often called upon to provide keynote or plenary addresses at international meetings. For example, in July, 2012, he gave a well-received keynote address at the Global Biodiversity Informatics Congress, sponsored by GBIF and held in Copenhagen. The slides from that talk can be seen HERE.

Facilitator

Robbins is a skilled meeting facilitator. He prefers a participatory approach, with part of the meeting involving dynamic breakout groups, created by the participants in real time: (1) individuals propose breakout groups; (2) everyone signs up for one (or more) groups; (3) the groups with the most interested parties then meet, with reports from each group presented and discussed in a subsequent plenary session.

Designer

Robbins has been engaged with photography and design since the 1960s, when he worked for a professional photography laboratory. He now prefers digital photography and tools for their precision and reproducibility. He designed his first web site more than 20 years ago and he personally designed and implemented this web site. He engages in graphic design as a hobby.

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This edited collection of essays includes discussions ranging from what is DNA barcoding, to descriptions of methods (both general and specific to some groups of organisms), to case studies of various applications of DNA barcoding. R. Robbins

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