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A new Anaulacomera species (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Phaneropterinae) from the Iguaçu National Park, southern Brazil

Iguaçu National Park — 2019 — WHE1C2FD5EE03

Researchers have discovered a new species of Anaulacomera, A. trispinata, within the poculigera group, marking the first record of this group in Brazil and the Atlantic Forest domain. The species was identified from Iguaçu National Park, a significant remnant of the Atlantic Forest in southern Brazil. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions of both male and female specimens, along with analyses of the males' calling songs. This discovery contributes to our understanding of biodiversity within UNESCO World Heritage Sites and highlights the importance of such regions for scientific research.

A new environmental and spatial approach to the Tiwanaku World Heritage site (Bolivia) using remote sensing (UAV and satellite images)

Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture — 2019 — WHEDF42C2DEA7

A groundbreaking study of the Tiwanaku World Heritage site in Bolivia reveals previously unknown archaeological structures, including drainage systems, walls, and circular crop marks, using a combination of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellite imagery. The research employed Sentinel-2 images processed with principal components analysis and histogram equalization to uncover buried drainage channels and flood-prone areas surrounding key structures. This approach provides unprecedented insights into the land and water use practices of the Tiwanaku culture, shedding light on their environmental adaptation strategies and historical relationship with water in the Bolivian altiplano.

A new scincid lizard from the Miocene of northern Australia, and the evolutionary history of social skinks (Scincidae: Egerniinae)

Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte) — 2019 — WHE4B9710A162

A new species of fossil lizard, Egernia gillespieae, has been identified from the mid-Miocene AL90 site in Australia's Riversleigh World Heritage Area. This discovery provides the first detailed morphological description of an articulated fossil skink, offering crucial insights into the evolutionary history of social skinks (Scincidae: Egerniinae). By integrating morphological and molecular data, researchers determined that the modern Australian radiation of egerniines began at the end of the Eocene (34.1 million years ago), with E. gillespieae closely related to living Egernia species. Additionally, another fossil, previously classified as 'Tiliqua' pusilla, was found to occupy a basal position within the clade that includes modern genera like Tiliqua and Cyclodomorphus. These findings highlight the significant evolutionary diversification of social skinks by the mid-Miocene, providing calibration points for their radiation timeline.

A new species of genus Gagea Salisb. (Liliaceae) from Kyrgyz Republic (Western Tian Shan, Chatkal Range, Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve)

Western Tien-Shan — 2019 — WHE87F717861E

Researchers have identified a new white-flowered species of Gagea within the Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve, located in the Chatkal Range of Kyrgyzstan. This discovery, published in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity, distinguishes the species from its closest relative, G. delicatula, primarily through differences in bulbil number and location in both generative and vegetative individuals. The new species thrives at relatively low elevations in shallow, shady niches on conglomerate gorge walls. The study employed morphological analysis to elucidate these distinguishing features, contributing valuable insights to the biodiversity of the Western Tian Shan region.

A new species of Kniphofia (Asphodelaceae) from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda

Nyungwe National Park — 2019 — WHEAD367A7BD8

A new species of Kniphofia, Kniphofia vandeweghei, has been discovered and described from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This finding contributes to the botanical diversity of the region by distinguishing it from closely related species such as K. princeae, K. goetzei, and K. paludosa. The study provides detailed morphological comparisons, distribution maps for both K. vandeweghei and K. princeae, and an identification key for all known Kniphofia species in Rwanda. Additionally, it reaffirms the status of Kniphofia bequaertii as a distinct species, clarifying its taxonomic relationship with K. grantii. The research combines morphological analysis with distributional data to enhance our understanding of this plant genus within the UNESCO-listed Nyungwe National Park.

A new species of Nothobrya Arlé, 1961 (Collembola: Entomobryidae) from Brazil and notes on key characters for Nothobryinae taxonomy, with an identification key to the species of the subfamily

Serra da Capivara National Park — 2019 — WHE334C5C1867

Researchers have identified a new species of Nothobrya, Nothobrya sertaneja, within the Collembola subfamily Entomobryidae, collected from Serra da Capivara National Park in Brazil's Caatinga Biome. This discovery expands the known diversity of the genus by distinguishing it from the two previously described species based on key morphological traits, including antennomeres, metatrochanteral organ chaetae, tenaculum structure, and inner unguis teeth. The study also provides the first complete dorsal chaetotaxy description for the genus and subfamily, along with a revised diagnosis and identification key to facilitate species differentiation. These findings enhance our understanding of Collembola taxonomy and contribute to biodiversity documentation in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A New Species of Oocephalus (Lamiaceae) from Goiás, Brazil

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2019 — WHECFDE46EC0B

Researchers have identified and described a new species of Oocephalus, named Oocephalus pubescens, from the Chapada dos Veadeiros region in Goiás, Brazil. This discovery adds to the botanical diversity of the Cerrado Protected Areas, which include UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks. The new species is distinguished by unique morphological traits that set it apart from its closest relative, Oocephalus foliosus. The study provides detailed illustrations, distribution insights, and a geographical occurrence map, contributing valuable data to the understanding of Lamiaceae plant diversity in the region.

A New Species of Phaenoplana (Platyhelminthes: Polycladida) from the Ogasawara Islands

Ogasawara Islands — 2019 — WHE0CE54A1D10

Researchers have identified and described Phaenoplana kopepe, a new species of polyclad flatworm from Chichijima Island in the Ogasawara Islands, marking the first record of Phaenoplana in Japan. This discovery is characterized by distinct morphological traits: an anteriorly curving vagina, well-separated gonopores, and a Lang’s duct shorter than the vagina. The study also provides a partial mitochondrial DNA barcode (610 bp) for the species, offering genetic insights to complement its taxonomic description.

A new species of the genus Megophrys Gunther, 1864 (Amphibia: Anura: Megophryidae) from Mount Wuyi, China

Mount Wuyi — 2019 — WHE3948FFA764

Scientists have identified a new species of horned toad, Megophrys ombrophila, from Mount Wuyi, China. This discovery was made through a combination of morphological, bioacoustic, and molecular analyses of 12S and 16S mitochondrial DNA. The species is characterized by its rotund body, distinct tympanum, smooth dorsal skin with granules and ridges, and unique reproductive traits. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that M. ombrophila is closely related to Megophrys obesa from Guangdong Province. The study highlights the importance of fine-scale molecular and phenotypic assessments in uncovering cryptic species within the hyper-diverse subfamily Megophryinae.

A new species of the genus Ochthebius (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae) from the Ogasawara Islands, Japan, with a description of the larva

Ogasawara Islands — 2019 — WHE8025684C2E

Scientists have identified a new species of water scavenger beetle, Ochthebius sasakiisp. nov., from the Ogasawara Islands, marking the first record of its family (Hydraenidae) in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This discovery expands the known biodiversity of the region and contributes to understanding the genetic diversity within the punctatus species group. The study provides detailed descriptions of both adult and larval stages, distinguishing it from similar Japanese species like O. inermis and O. danjo. Additionally, the larva of O. inermis is described for comparative purposes, offering new insights into the morphology and taxonomy of this genus.

A new species of the genus Ranunculus from the Western Tien Shan

Western Tien-Shan — 2019 — WHE53C87EE702

Researchers have identified Ranunculus talassicus, a new species of buttercup endemic to the Western Tien Shan, distinguished by its triple-dissected basal leaves. Through a revision of herbarium specimens from collections across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan (TASH, AA, TAD, MW, LE, KE, TK), the study determined that Ranunculus alaiensis, previously thought to have a Central Asian distribution, is restricted to the Pamir-Alay region. The new species was found exclusively in the northern Western Tien Shan at altitudes of 2400–3000 meters, marking it as a regional endemic. This discovery refines our understanding of Ranunculus taxonomy and highlights the biodiversity significance of this UNESCO-listed mountain range.

A new species of the genusMacrochlamysGray, 1847 (Stylommatophora: Ariophantidae) from Western Himalaya, India

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2019 — WHE8BEA5D155B

Researchers have identified and described a new species of land snail, Macrochlamys leggeae, from the high-altitude regions of Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks in Western Himalaya, India. This discovery was made through morphotaxonomic analysis, conchological differences, radula structure, and genitalia examination, distinguishing it from four closely related species. The new species is named in honor of Joan Margaret Legge, a botanist who tragically lost her life during floral studies in the park in 1939. Additionally, the study provides a comprehensive list of Macrochlamys species recorded in India, contributing to the region's biodiversity documentation.

A new species of tree snake (Dipsadoboa, Serpentes: Colubridae) from ‘sky island’ forests in northern Mozambique, with notes on other members of the Dipsadoboa werneri group

Island of Mozambique — 2019 — WHEA7CE1C95A3

Researchers have identified a new species of tree snake, Dipsadoboa montisilva, from the 'sky island' forests of Mount Mabu and Mount Ribáuè in northern Mozambique. This discovery is supported by phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial DNA, distinguishing it from other Dipsadoboa species found in Mozambique. The new species exhibits unique scalation, coloration, and body form, placing it within the D. werneri-shrevei complex but differing significantly in subcaudal counts, temporal patterns, and supralabial features. Additionally, the study reassesses the status of D. shrevei in East Africa, raising a poorly-known subspecies to full species status based on morphological and habitat differences. The Rondo Plateau population in Tanzania is treated as an uncertain species due to its isolation and scalation discrepancies. The findings underscore the high conservation importance of Mozambique's forest 'sky islands,' which harbor numerous endemic species threatened by habitat destruction.

A new species of Trismegistomya Reinhard (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2019 — WHE6EB06305E7

Researchers have identified a new species of tachinid fly, Trismegistomya jimoharai, from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. This discovery expands the known range and diversity of the genus Trismegistomya, which was previously represented by only one species from Arizona, USA. The new species was reared from wild-caught caterpillars of the moth Melipotis januaris (Erebidae), providing insights into its life history and ecological interactions. The study integrates morphological, molecular, and photographic data to describe the species comprehensively. Additionally, it includes a redescription of the genus and its type species, Trismegistomya pumilis, contributing to the taxonomic understanding of this group within the Tachinidae family.

A new stygobiotic Stenasellus Dollfus, 1897 (Asellota: Stenasellidae) from Socotra Island, Yemen

Socotra Archipelago — 2019 — WHE3A8C85FCA7

Researchers have identified a new species of stygobiotic isopod, Stenasellus taitii, from Socotra Island's caves, marking the first endemic stenasellid discovery in the archipelago. This finding highlights morphological affinities with Middle Eastern species (Oman, Iran), aligning with Socotra's paleogeographical ties to Southern Arabia rather than the African mainland. The study, published in Zootaxa, contributes to our understanding of Socotran groundwater biodiversity and emphasizes the importance of protecting these unique subterranean habitats.

A new tuberous species of Begonia sect. Diploclinium endemic to Danxia landforms in central China

China Danxia — 2019 — WHEF9D29867A8

A new tuberous species of Begonia, Begonia danxiaensis, has been discovered and described, endemic to the unique Danxia landforms of Jiangxi and Hunan provinces in central China. This species belongs to the section Diploclinium and is distinguished by its morphological and molecular characteristics, setting it apart from similar taxa. The discovery was supported by both traditional taxonomic methods and genetic analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of its distinct traits. Due to its limited distribution and habitat specificity, B. danxiaensis has been classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts in these ecologically significant landscapes.

A Novel Orthohepadnavirus Identified in a Dead Maxwell’s Duiker (Philantomba maxwellii) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire

Taï National Park — 2019 — WHE287225DFF1

Researchers have identified a novel orthohepadnavirus, tentatively named Taï Forest hepadnavirus, in a dead Maxwell’s duiker (Philantomba maxwellii) from Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. This discovery marks the first orthohepadnavirus described in an artiodactyl species. Using the VirCapSeq-VERT platform, which enables viral discovery through sequencing, the study analyzed 21 samples from six duikers and detected the virus in one individual, with the highest copy numbers found in the spleen, lung, blood, and liver. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the virus is a divergent member of the mammalian clade of orthohepadnaviruses, though its exact relationship to other members remains uncertain. The findings suggest potential pathogenicity, given viral load levels comparable to those seen in human chronic infections, but further research is needed to confirm this and explore its prevalence in artiodactyl populations.

A Poetics of Simpson Pass: Natural History and Place-Making in Rocky Mountains Park

Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks — 2019 — WHEE3832D2B0F

A Sprig of Mountain Heather, a historic pamphlet by J.B. Harkin and Mabel Williams, reveals how natural history practices enabled European settlers to culturally appropriate remote wilderness spaces like Simpson Pass in Canada’s Rocky Mountain Parks. By embedding Scottish lore with a pressed alpine heather specimen, the pamphlet demonstrates the power of natural objects as loci of memory, facilitating emotional and cultural attachment to geographically and culturally distant lands. This colonial curatorial approach underscores the role of botanical inventory in shaping national park narratives, blending scientific documentation with place-making to bridge alienation between settlers and wilderness.

A Pottery Assemblage from the Burial M26 in the Hellenistic Neсropoleis of Tauric Chersonese

Ancient City of Tauric Chersonese and its Chora — 2019 — WHE19F9F6BC3A

A pottery assemblage from the Hellenistic necropolis of Tauric Chersonese, dated to the end of the 4th century to the third quarter of the 3rd century BCE, provides valuable insights into burial practices and material culture during this period. The analysis of 3015 ceramic fragments, primarily black-glazed tableware such as fish plates, saltcellars, and bowls, along with plain wares like lopadions, jugs, and plates, reveals a sophisticated ceramic tradition. These findings were derived from burial M26 and an associated ritual fireplace, excavated in 1963 on the Eastern slope of Pesochnaya Bay, near the ancient road leading to the Western city gate. The study suggests that the assemblage represents approximately 90–130 whole vessels, offering a glimpse into the ritualistic and domestic practices of the time.

A prática turística no Parque Nacional do Iguaçu, em Foz do Iguaçu-PR (Brasil) e os elementos formadores do espaço / The tourist practice at the Iguaçu National Park in Foz do Iguaçu-PR (Brazil) and the space-forming elements

Iguaçu National Park — 2019 — WHECA731AFC6D

Investments in infrastructure and the natural allure of Iguaçu Falls have significantly boosted ecotourism, driving economic growth and job creation in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. The study highlights the critical role of spatial elements, such as national parks and iconic attractions, in shaping tourist experiences and inducing positive socioeconomic impacts. By analyzing secondary data on visitation, GDP, and employment—collected through literature reviews and field surveys—the research underscores the transformative potential of ecotourism in global conservation units like Iguaçu National Park.