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Numerous faunistic and ecological studies have been conducted throughout the Indo-Pacific Ocean to assess its biodiversity. Despite the abundance of research, studies on the species that inhabit the Indo-Pacific are still necessary due to its extent and high species richness. The major species richness of the genus Okenia Menke, 1830 (Nudibranchia, Goniodorididae) is found in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, including 38 of 60 valid species. Nevertheless, this number does not represent the real biodiversity, since at least 20 more species are already reported in field-guides as undescribed species belonging to this genus. The systematics of the genus Okenia are still unclear since it has been the subject of only a few and incomplete studies. In the present paper, we describe five new Okenia species from the coastlines of Japan, Mozambique and Australia: Okenia aurorapapillata sp. nov., Okenia elisae sp. nov., Okenia nakanoae sp. nov., Okenia siderata sp. nov. and Okenia tenuifibrata sp. nov. Moreover, anatomical details not previously described of Okenia atkinsonorum , Okenia barnardi , Okenia cf. echinata , Okenia hallucigenia , Okenia hiroi , Okenia japonica , Okenia pellucida , Okenia pilosa and Okenia rhinorma are provided. New partial sequences of standard markers (COI , 16S rRNA and H3) were obtained and a phylogenetic analysis that included all species with available data was performed. ZOOBANK urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:28AE2536-A264–4194–8AE3-C430620572E7 Currently, the largest number of known Okenia species are inhabiting the Indo-Pacific. However, ~20 species are still reported as undescribed in field-guides to this genus. In the present paper, we obtain new DNA sequences for Okenia species and study their evolutionary relationships. Moreover, we describe five new Okenia species from the coastlines of Japan, Mozambique and Australia: Okenia aurorapapillata sp. nov., Okenia elisae sp. nov., Okenia nakanae sp. nov., Okenia siderata sp. nov. and Okenia tenuifibrata sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mirid subfamily Orthotylinae is hyperdiverse in Australia but poorly described; this work is part of a series of papers on the documentation of this fauna. Two new species of the Australian endemic plant bug genus Myrtlemiris Cheng, Mututantri & Cassis (Heteroptera: Miridae: Orthotylinae: Orthotylini) are described as new to science: Myrtlemiris kararensis , sp. nov., and M. lochada , sp. nov. The new Australian genus and species Neomyrtlemiris picta gen. nov. et sp. nov. are also described. Myrtlemiris is analysed phylogenetically using 32 morphology-based characters, as well as molecular alignments (COI , 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA ; including 1958 base pairs) with the genus found to be monophyletic based on molecular, morphological and combined analyses. Neomyrtlemiris is the sister to Myrtlemiris. Host plant association analysis demonstrated constraints to the myrtaceous tribe Chamelaucieae, with Malleostemon and Calytrix recovered as ancestral host plants. Ancestral state reconstructions were carried out on male genitalic structures, demonstrating the phylogenetic value of endosomal spicules. This work demonstrates that the Orthotylinae are a rich component of Australia's biodiversity, particularly in the south-west of Western Australia. This work continues documentation of the Australian mirid tribe Orthotylinae, a fauna that was virtually undescribed 20 years ago. Two new species of the genus of Myrtlemiris from Western Australia, and a new genus and new species (Neomyrtlemiris picta), all of which were collected during the Bush Blitz program, are described. This work also includes a combined molecular and morphological phylogeny confirming the monophyly of Myrtlemiris , as well as ancestral state reconstruction of male genitalic characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulopinae is a distinctive subfamily of leafhoppers that is widely distributed across the Afrotropical, Palearctic, Indomalayan and Australasian regions. The ulopine fauna of Australia is entirely endemic and includes two tribes of striking appearance, the Ulopini and Cephalelini. Knowledge of these groups is fragmentary and in many instances, no information is available beyond original descriptions. We assess the monophyly, phylogenetic placement and species-level diversity of the Ulopini genus Austrolopa. Phylogenetic analyses based on sequence data from target nuclear loci (18S , 28S , H2A and H3) and mitochondrial genomes (15 genes) for 23 membracoid taxa yielded congruent topologies. Our results provide strong evidence for the monophyly of Ulopinae and a clade consisting of Ulopini + Cephalelini. However, a non-monophyletic Cephalelini arises from within a polyphyletic Ulopini. Austrolopa was strongly recovered as monophyletic in all analyses, a result also supported by morphological features. The genus currently includes six species, three of which are described based on morphological and molecular data: Austrolopa botanica , sp. nov. , Austrolopa rotunda , sp. nov. and Austrolopa sublima , sp. nov. A lectotype designation is provided for Austrolopa kingensis Evans, 1937, sp. reval. Our findings illustrate that the Australian Ulopinae is far more diverse than currently circumscribed and several species of Austrolopa are yet to be recognised. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:1480285B-8F61-4659-A929-2B1EF3168868 Ulopinae is a distinctive leafhopper subfamily widely distributed across the Afrotropical, Palearctic, Indomalayan and Australasian regions. The Australian fauna is entirely endemic, and many species lack hindwings. Here, we investigate the phylogeny of ulopine leafhoppers, focusing on the genus Austrolopa. Populations previously ascribed to A. brunensis represent new species, suggesting that these insects have narrow ranges and may be further restricted to specific elevations or host plants. Our study demonstrates that non-monophyletic ulopine tribes and genera need reappraisal with integrative methods. (Photographs by O. Evangelista.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We complement and expand the existing descriptions of the Australian araneid spider Paraplectanoides crassipes Keyserling, 1886, and provide the first detailed analysis of the male palpal homologies to include examination of the expanded organ and scanning electron micrographs of the palpal sclerites. We study the placement of Paraplectanoides and the classification of the family Araneidae by combining ultraconserved elements with Sanger markers. We also added Sanger sequences of the Australian araneid genus Venomius to the molecular dataset of Scharff et al. (2020) to explore the phylogenetic placement and implications for classification of the family. We evaluate a recent proposal on the classification of the family Araneidae by Kuntner et al. (2023) in which a new family is erected for P. crassipes. Paraplectanoides is monotypic. Examination of the type material shows that Paraplectanoides kochi O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1877 is misplaced in the genus and the name is a senior synonym of the araneid Isoxya penizoides Simon, 1887 (new synonymy) that results in the new combination Isoxya kochi (O. Pickard- Cambridge, 1877). The classification of Araneidae is revised and the following nomenclatural acts are introduced: Paraplectanoididae Kuntner, Coddington, Agnarsson and Bond, 2023 is a junior synonym of Araneidae Clerck, 1757 new synonymy; phonognathines and nephilines are subfamilies of Araneidae (Subfamily Phonognathinae Simon, 1894 rank resurrected; and Subfamily Nephilinae Simon, 1894 rank resurrected). The results of our analyses corroborate the sister group relationship between Paraplectanoides and the araneid subfamily Nephilinae. Venomius is sister to the Nephilinae + Paraplectanoides clade. The placement of the oarcine araneids and Venomius renders the family Araneidae non-monophyletic if this were to be circumscribed as in Kuntner et al. (2023). In light of the paucity of data that the latter study presents, and in absence of a robust, stable and more densely sampled phylogenetic analysis of Araneidae, the changes and definitions introduced by that classification are premature and could lead to a large number of new families for what once were araneid species if the maximum-crown-clade family definitions were to be used. Consequently, we argue for restoring the familial and subfamilial classification of Araneidae of Dimitrov et al. (2017), Scharff et al. (2020) and Kallal et al. (2020). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trapdoor spider family Migidae has a classical Gondwanan distribution and is found on all southern continents except the Indian region. The Australian fauna consists of three genera including Moggridgea O. P. Cambridge from south-western Australia and Kangaroo Island, South Australia; Moggridgea is otherwise widespread throughout Africa. The sole named species of Moggridgea from Western Australia, M. tingle Main, and its unnamed relatives are the subject of the present paper, which was stimulated by concern for the long-term persistence of populations, and the discovery of deep genetic divergences between populations. A phylogeny of the Western Australian species relative to African and South Australian Moggridgea was generated using molecular COI and ITS rDNA data, and based on both molecular and morphological criteria we conclude that the Western Australian taxa should be removed from Moggridgea and transferred to a new genus, Bertmainius. The seven species are delimited using both morphological and molecular criteria: B. tingle (Main) (the type species), and six new species, B. colonus, B. monachus, B. mysticus, B. opimus, B. pandus and B. tumidus. All seven species are considered to be threatened using IUCN criteria, with the major threatening processes being inappropriate fire regimes and climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate taxonomy and descriptions of species are key to understanding biodiversity. The echinoid genus Tripneustes is an ecologically and commercially important taxon that includes the tropical Tripneustes gratilla gratilla and the recently described T. kermadecensis from Australia and New Zealand. While examining the Australian Museum collections to clarify the distributions of these two species in eastern Australia we found potential senior type material for T. kermadecensis. These specimens from Sydney Harbour were originally described in 1878 as Evechinus australiae by Tenison-Woods but neither illustrated nor redescribed in any subsequent report. We undertook molecular and morphological analysis of these specimens to determine whether T. kermadecensis and E. australiae represent two distinct taxa or not. This included micro-computed tomography, quantification of test traits and molecular genetic analysis. The COI sequence and morphology of Evechinus australiae matched that of Tripneustes kermadecensis. As such, T. kermadecensis is a junior synonym of Evechinus australiae. The correct designation of this taxon is therefore Tripneustes australiae (Tenison-Woods, 1878). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycaenid butterflies of the Ogyris idmo species group are endemic to Australia and obligatorily associated with Camponotus ants. Several species are threatened with extinction, but there are considerable uncertainties with the present classification. Here, the taxonomy of the species group is revised based on molecular and morphological data. Mitochondrial sequence data were obtained from GenBank for Ogyris Angas, 1847, from cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and cytochrome b (cytb) (total of 1203 bp), and a phylogeny of the genus was reconstructed using Maximum Likelihood methods. Based on these molecular data, adult morphology and other evidence, the following eight taxa are recognised in this species group: Ogyris otanes (C. & R. Felder, 1865), Ogyris arcana M.R. Williams & Hay, 2001 stat. rev., Ogyris arcana arcana M.R. Williams & Hay, 2001 comb. nov. , Ogyris arcana sublustris M.R. Williams & Hay, 2001 comb. nov. , Ogyris halmaturia (Tepper, 1890), Ogyris halmaturia halmaturia (Tepper, 1890), Ogyris halmaturia waterhouseri (Bethune-Baker, 1905) stat. rev. , Ogyris idmo (Hewitson, 1862), Ogyris subterrestris Field, 1999 and Ogyris petrina Field, 1999 stat. rev. The female of Ogyris halmaturia halmaturia is described for the first time. Phylogenetic relationships among the six species are as follows: (O. otanes + O. arcana) + (O. halmaturia + (O. idmo + (O. subterrestris + O. petrina))). The life history switch from phytophagy (O. otanes and O. arcana) to entomophagy (suspected myrmecophagy) within this species group has led to diversification of four species, a most unusual evolutionary pattern within the Lycaenidae globally. The taxonomic changes proposed herein affect some of the most threatened Australian butterflies and their conservation status is discussed. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:B9A6F558-DD47-47DF-AC9C-A71270B6EE09 The systematics of the bronze azure butterfly Ogyris idmo species group are revised through an integrative taxonomic approach. Morphological examination and phylogenetic analysis resolved eight taxa within this group (six species and two subspecies) and five new nomenclatural changes are proposed. A key to all taxa is provided and all taxa are illustrated. These taxonomic changes affect some of the most threatened Australian butterflies and the conservation is discussed. (Photograph by Ethan P. Beaver.) IS23032_TOC.jpg [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaetopteridae forms a monophyletic clade showing an uncertain position within Annelida. The family has 75 ubiquitous species within four genera that cluster in two well-supported clades (Chaetopterus–Mesochaetopterus and Spiochaetopterus–Phyllochaetopterus) and includes several cryptic species complexes. Based on integrative taxonomy and supported by citizen science, here we describe one new and two unnamed species of Caribbean chaetopterids. Partial sequences from the nuclear 18S rRNA and mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I genes of all known chaetopterid genera allowed us to (1) discuss the phylogeny of the family and (2) assign the three species into Mesochaetopterus (two) and Phyllochaetopterus (one). Mesochaetopterus stinapa, sp. nov. clearly diverged from all species of the genus, whereas Mesochaetopterus aff. xerecus forms a separate clade with Mesochaetopterus rogeri (Europe) and Mesochaetopterus xerecus (Brazil). Phyllochaetopterus aff. verrilli forms a separate clade with Phyllochaetopterus arabicus (Red Sea) and the closely related sequences from Hawai’i, Australia and French Polynesia attributed to Phyllochaetopterus verrilli (or cf. verrilli). Despite observing differences in morphology (e.g. palp colour pattern, presence or absence of eyespots, chaetal morphology and arrangement) and biogeographical distributions, only the erection of M. stinapa as a new species is well supported by the genetic distance, barcoding gap and species discrimination analyses. Our results emphasise the existence of cryptic species complexes within Mesochaetopterus and Phyllochaetopterus, whose taxonomy will require further morphological, biogeographical and molecular data to be resolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia was historically considered a poor prospect for subterranean fauna but, in reality, the continent holds a great variety of subterranean habitats, with associated faunas, found both in karst and non-karst environments. This paper critically examines the diversity of subterranean fauna in several key regions for the mostly arid western half of Australia. We aimed to document levels of species richness for major taxon groups and examine the degree of uniqueness of the fauna. We also wanted to compare the composition of these ecosystems, and their origins, with other regions of subterranean diversity world-wide. Using information on the number of ‘described’ and ‘known’ invertebrate species (recognised based on morphological and/or molecular data), we predict that the total subterranean fauna for the western half of the continent is 4140 species, of which ~10% is described and 9% is ‘known’ but not yet described. The stygofauna, water beetles, ostracods and copepods have the largest number of described species, while arachnids dominate the described troglofauna. Conversely, copepods, water beetles and isopods are the poorest known groups with less than 20% described species, while hexapods (comprising mostly Collembola, Coleoptera, Blattodea and Hemiptera) are the least known of the troglofauna. Compared with other regions of the world, we consider the Australian subterranean fauna to be unique in its diversity compared with the northern hemisphere for three key reasons: the range and diversity of subterranean habitats is both extensive and novel; direct faunal links to ancient Pangaea and Gondwana are evident, emphasising their early biogeographic history; and Miocene aridification, rather than Pleistocene post-ice age driven diversification events (as is predicted in the northern hemisphere), are likely to have dominated Australia’s subterranean speciation explosion. Finally, we predict that the geologically younger, although more poorly studied, eastern half of the Australian continent is unlikely to be as diverse as the western half, except for stygofauna in porous media. Furthermore, based on similar geology, palaeogeography and tectonic history to that seen in the western parts of Australia, southern Africa, parts of South America and India may also yield similar subterranean biodiversity to that described here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last two decades, Australia has undergone a renaissance in studies of subterranean biology. This paper sets these recent developments into context from the perspective of groundwater fauna. Owing to its obligate subterranean life, typical local endemicity and the geological persistence of subterranean habitats, stygofauna is an excellent subject for biogeographic study. Groundwater containing diverse faunas range from freshwater to marine salinities in both coastal and continental locations. They occur in typical karst, alluvial, and fractured rock aquifers, but also in novel matrices formed during the hydrogeochemical evolution of groundwater (goethite pisolites and groundwater calcretes) in the Tertiary. This range of habitats, water quality and the diverse origins of the fauna (Gondwanan, Pangaean and Tethys) support a phylogenetically highly diverse fauna. Several taxa, notably among the Podocopida, Bathynellacea, Amphipoda, and Dytiscidae show remarkable species diversity. Typically there is fine spatial scale endemicity of species associated with local aquifers, but there are inexplicable regional differences, such as the change of fauna between the Yilgarn and Pilbara, contiguous areas on the long emergent Western Shield. The anchialine taxa representing higher taxa are highly disjunct from their congeners in the North Atlantic. The emerging species richness, the fine scale patchwork of endemicity, and the distinct regional differences, respectively, contribute to a substantial increase in ?, ? and ? diversity of the aquatic fauna, especially in arid Australia. This diversity is posing challenging issues for proponents and regulators of mineral development because much of this diversity has emerged in the two most mineraliferous provinces of Australia. The scientific capacity to respond is challenged by the sheer scale of the emerging issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The histerid subfamily Chlamydopsinae is a clade of obligate inquilines of social insects, mainly ants. They show a wide range of bizarre morphological characteristics, including highly varied trichomes, associated with this lifestyle. They occur throughout Australia and Indomalaysia, with a few species occurring as far from this centre of diversity as India and Japan. At present the subfamily contains 12 genera and 174 species, several of which are newly described herein (Teretriopsis theryi, gen. nov., sp. nov., Papuopsis andersoni, gen. nov., sp. nov. and Quasimodopsis riedeli, gen. nov. sp. nov.). This paper presents a phylogenetic analysis based on morphological characters of all of the main lineages of the family, provides a complete catalogue of the species, a key to all the genera, and proposes several new combinations. The phylogenetic analysis reveals two large clades, one (including the genera Chlamydopsis Westwood, Eucurtia Mjberg, and Ectatommiphila Lea) is largely restricted to the Australian continent, whereas the other, containing all other genera, is much more widespread, including many Australian species, but extending also through Indomalaysia into south-east Asia. The beetles are known to utilise many hosts, including ants in four different subfamilies (Myrmicinae, Ponerinae, Dolichoderinae, and Formicinae), as well as termites in the genus Eutermes. However, host records are not yet sufficiently comprehensive to exhibit any clear phylogenetic signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with araneomorph spiders, relatively few mygalomorph spiders have evolved an obligate existence in subterranean habitats. The trapdoor spider genus Troglodiplura Main, 1969 and its sole named species T. lowryi Main, 1969 is endemic to caves on the Nullarbor Plain of southern Australia, and is one of the world's most troglomorphic mygalomorph spiders. However, its systematic position has proved to be difficult to ascertain, largely due to a lack of preserved adults, with all museum specimens represented only by cuticular fragments, degraded specimens or preserved juveniles. The systematic placement of Troglodiplura has changed since it was first described as a member of the Dipluridae, with later attribution to Nemesiidae and then back to Dipluridae. The most recent hypothesis specifically allied Troglodiplura with the Neotropical subfamily Diplurinae, and therefore was assumed to have no close living relatives in Australia. We obtained mitochondrial sequence data from one specimen of Troglodiplura to test these two competing hypotheses, and found that Troglodiplura is a member of the family Anamidae (which was recently separated from the Nemesiidae). We also reassess the morphology of the cuticular fragments of specimens from several different caves, and hypothesise that along with T. lowryi there are four new troglobitic species, here named T. beirutpakbarai Harvey & Rix, T. challeni Harvey & Rix, T. harrisi Harvey & Rix, and T. samankunani Harvey & Rix, each of which is restricted to a single cave system and therefore severely threatened by changing environmental conditions within the caves. The first descriptions and illustrations of the female spermathecae of Troglodiplura are provided. The family Anamidae is further divided into two subfamilies, with the Anaminae Simon containing Aname L. Koch, 1873, Hesperonatalius Castalanelli, Huey, Hillyer & Harvey, 2017, Kwonkan Main, 1983, Swolnpes Main & Framenau, 2009 and Troglodiplura , and the Teylinae Main including Chenistonia Hogg, 1901, Namea Raven, 1984, Proshermacha Simon, 1909, Teyl Main, 1975 and Teyloides Main, 1985. ZooBank Registration: http://zoobank.org/References/2BE2B429-0998-4AFE-9381-B30BDC391E9C The world's most specialised cave-dwelling trapdoor spider, Troglodiplura , is known only from the caves in Australia's Nullarbor Plain. Although it was previously thought to be most closely related to South American spiders, we use sequence data to show that Troglodiplura belongs to the Australian endemic family Anamidae. In addition to the originally described species, T. lowryi , we found four new species. Each of the five species are restricted to individual caves, and are likely under threat from changing environmental conditions within the caves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tropical and subtropical rainforests of Australia's eastern mesic zone have given rise to a complex and highly diverse biota. Numerous old endemic, niche-conserved groups persist in the montane rainforests south of Cooktown, where concepts of serial allopatric speciation resulting from the formation of xeric interzones have largely driven our biogeographic understanding of the region. Among invertebrate taxa, studies on less vagile arachnid lineages now complement extensive research on vertebrate taxa, and phylogenetic studies on mygalomorph spiders in particular are revealing significant insights about the biogeographic history of the Australian continent since the Eocene. One mygalomorph lineage entirely endemic to Australia's tropical and subtropical eastern rainforests is the open-holed trapdoor spider genus Namea Raven, 1984 (family Anamidae). We explore, for the first time, the phylogenetic diversity and systematics of this group of spiders, with the aims of understanding patterns of rainforest diversity in Namea, of exploring the relative roles of lineage overlap versus in situ speciation in driving predicted high levels of congeneric sympatry, and of broadly reconciling morphology with evolutionary history. Original and legacy sequences were obtained for three mtDNA and four nuDNA markers from 151 specimens, including 82 specimens of Namea. We recovered a monophyletic genus Namea sister to the genus Teyl Main, 1975, and monophyletic species clades corresponding to 30 morphospecies OTUs, including 22 OTUs nested within three main species-complex lineages. Remarkable levels of sympatry for a single genus of mygalomorph spiders were revealed in rainforest habitats, with upland subtropical rainforests in south-eastern Queensland often home to multiple (up to six) congeners of usually disparate phylogenetic affinity living in direct sympatry or close parapatry, likely the result of simultaneous allopatric speciation in already co-occurring lineages, and more recent dispersal in a minority of taxa. In situ speciation, in contrast, appears to have played a relatively minor role in generating sympatric diversity within rainforest 'islands'. At the population level, changes in the shape and spination of the male first leg relative to evolutionary history reveal subtle but consistent interspecific morphological shifts in the context of otherwise intraspecific variation, and understanding this morphological variance provides a useful framework for future taxonomic monography. Based on the phylogenetic results, we further provide a detailed taxonomic synopsis of the genus Namea, formally diagnosing three main speciescomplexes (the brisbanensis-complex, the dahmsi-complex and the jimna-complex), re-illustrating males of all 15 described species, and providing images of live spiders and burrows where available. In doing so, we reveal a huge undescribed diversity of Namea species from tropical and subtropical rainforest habitats, and an old endemic fauna that is beginning to shed light on more complex patterns of rainforest biogeography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aenigmetopia Malloch is the only endemic genus of miltogrammine flesh flies (Diptera : Sarcophagidae) in Australia and, until now it has been known from a single species, A. fergusoni Malloch. This study constitutes the first comprehensive taxonomic revision of Aenigmetopia. Four new species, Aenigmetopia amissa , sp. nov., A. corona , sp. nov., A. kryptos , sp. nov. and A. pagoni , sp. nov., are described through the integration of molecular and morphological data and characters for genus- and species-level diagnoses are given. Aenigmetopia is included in a molecular phylogenetic analysis for the first time and the genus emerges as the sister taxon to Metopia Meigen, in agreement with morphological evidence. Aenigmetopia is the only Australian endemic genus of the flesh fly subfamily Miltogramminae. This genus was previously known from a single species and specimens had been neither collected nor studied since the early 1900s. This study utilises integrative systematics to describe four new species of genus Aenigmetopia and explores its phylogenetic placement among the miltogrammines for the first time, resolving a novel sister-group relationship between this genus and Metopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine leeches are sanguivorous parasites either on sea turtles (family Ozobranchidae) or on elasmobranch and teleost fishes (family Piscicolidae), with the exception of Mysidobdella , which may feed on mysid shrimp. The marine leeches of Australia and New Zealand are poorly known, especially those on teleost fishes. Collections of marine leeches from all major museums in Australia and New Zealand were examined, as well as many specimens sent to the author. Ozobranchus branchiatus and O. margoi were found on sea turtles in Australia. Seven genera and 14 species of fish leeches were found in Australia; 6 genera and 10 species of fish leeches were found in New Zealand. Two genera (Pontobdella and Branchellion) and four species (P. leucothela , P. moorei , B. australis and B. plicobranchus) occur in both Australia and New Zealand. No genus is endemic to Australia, but four species are endemic based on current records (Austrobdella bilobata , Austrobdella translucens , Trachelobdella leptocephali and Pterobdella platycephalus). Two genera (Bdellamaris and Leporinabdella) and three species (B. manteri , B. eptatreti , and L. digglesi) are endemic to New Zealand based on current records. The marine leeches of Australia and New Zealand are a mix of endemic species, those of tropical or subtropical origin, and those of subantarctic origin. Marine leeches are an important component of the fish and sea turtle parasite fauna in Australia and New Zealand. However, they are very poorly known. Examination of marine leech specimens in all major Australian and New Zealand museums revealed eight genera and 16 species in Australia and six genera and 10 species in New Zealand. Two genera and three species are endemic to New Zealand; no genera, but four species are endemic to Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Australia, climate change and continental drift have given rise to a complex biota comprising mesic specialists, arid-adapted lineages, and taxa that have arrived on the continent from Asia. We explore the phylogenetic diversity and biogeographic history of the Australian trapdoor spider genus Conothele Thorell, 1878 that is widespread in Australia's monsoonal tropics and arid zone. We sequenced three mtDNA and five nuDNA markers from 224 specimens. We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships among specimens and estimated the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) using species delimitation methods. The timing of divergences was estimated and ancestral area reconstructions were conducted. We recovered 61 OTUs, grouped into four major clades; a single clade represented by an arboreal ecomorph, and three fossorial clades. The Australian Conothele had a crown age of ~19 million years, and ancestral area reconstructions showed a complex history with multiple transitions among the monsoonal tropics, central arid zone, south-west and Pilbara bioregion. Conothele arrived on the continent during periods of biotic exchange with Asia. Since then, Conothele has colonised much of the Australian arid and monsoonal zones, during a period of climatic instability. The Pilbara bioregion harbours high lineage diversity, emphasising the role of climate refugia. The Australian arid zone harbours significant undiscovered invertebrate biodiversity. Here, we explore the phylogenetic diversity and biogeographic history of the Australian trapdoor spider genus Conothele. We recovered 61 operational taxonomic units, all undescribed, reflecting a complex biogeographic history that transpired concurrently with the formation of the arid zone. This result is comparable to many other trapdoor spider families in Australia, and the taxonomic challenge needs urgent attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia and Southeast Asia are hotspots of global diversity in the fruit-fly genus Bactrocera. Although a great diversity of species has been long recognised, evolutionary relationships are poorly understood, largely because previous sequencing techniques have provided insufficient historical signal for phylogenetic reconstruction. Poorly understood biogeographic history in Bactrocera has prevented a deeper understanding of migratory patterns in this economically important pest group. Using representatives from Australia and Malaysia, we tested the utility of a genome-reduction approach that generates thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms for phylogenetic reconstructions. This approach has high utility for species identification because of the ease of sample addition over time, and the species-level specificity able to be achieved with the markers. These data have provided a strongly supported phylogenetic tree congruent with topologies generated using more intensive sequencing approaches. In addition, our results do not support taxonomic assignments to species complex for a number of species, such as B. endiandrae in the dorsalis complex, yet find a close relationship between B. pallida and the dorsalis species. Our data have further validated non-monophyletic evolution of male response to primary attractants. We also showed at least two diversification events between Australia and Southeast Asia, indicating trans-regional dispersal in important pest species. Flies from the genus Bactrocera represent major global biosecurity threats, although evolutionary relationships are relatively unknown and species identification requires expert knowledge. We demonstrated that a restriction-digest sequencing approach can be used to determine evolutionary relationships between closely related Australian and Malaysian Bactrocera , and showed multiple movements between the regions. Our approach also showed promise for genomics-based species identification for biosecurity assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australian endemic lycaenid Pseudalmenus H.H. Druce, 1902 occupies a unique phylogenetic position within the Theclinae–Polyommatinae assemblage. Although the genus exhibits complex geographic variation, it has long been considered to be monotypic. However, evidence from adult phenotype (colour pattern), immature stages (final instar larva) and ecology (ant specificity) (total of 10 unique character states) as well as limited genetic data (mitochondrial COI) suggest that there are two species, namely, P. chlorinda (Blanchard, 1848) from Tasmania and the mainland of south-eastern Australia and P. barringtonensis Waterhouse, 1928 stat. rev., which is allopatric and narrowly restricted to montane areas in northern New South Wales. Examination of the 'holotype' male of P. barringtonensis in the Australian Museum showed that it is a fake, although the data label is genuine; the specimen is actually P. chlorinda chloris Waterhouse & Lyell, 1914 that has been modified with red paint to resemble P. barringtonensis. The true holotype is currently missing, but a specimen in the Australian Museum (registration No. K199026) that is part of the Colin W. Wyatt Theft Collection with a fictitious label is almost certainly the true holotype of P. barringtonensis. We discuss the history of this most unusual and bizarre circumstance and conclude that Wyatt stole the holotype sometime in 1946 before he returned to England (~72 years ago) and fabricated the fake holotype as a replacement specimen. Such a fraudulent and unprecedented act surely ranks as Australia's greatest taxonomic fraud. The Australian endemic butterfly Pseudalmenus chlorinda is evolutionary distinct and exhibits complex geographical variation. Our aim was to resolve the taxonomy of the species using morphological, molecular and ecological data. We conclude that there are two species, and that the 'holotype' male of P. barringtonensis is a fake fabricated by Colin Wyatt as a replacement specimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the spiny trapdoor spider genus Euoplos Rainbow exists a group of species from south-eastern Queensland that create unusual 'palisade' burrow entrances. Despite their intriguing burrows, the group was only recently circumscribed, and all species within it were undescribed. In this study, by undertaking a molecular phylogenetic analysis of two mitochondrial markers and seven nuclear markers, we confirm that the palisade trapdoor spiders, here formally named the ' turrificus -group', are monophyletic. We further recognise four species based on morphological, molecular and behavioural characters: E. crenatus , sp. nov., E. goomboorian , sp. nov., E. thynnearum , sp. nov. and E. turrificus , sp. nov. Morphological taxonomic data for each species are presented alongside information on their distribution, habitat preferences and burrow architecture. A key to species within the turrificus -group is also provided. The unusual burrow entrances of these spiders, which project out from the surrounding substrate, are found to exhibit structural autapomorphies, which allow species-level identification. Consequently, we include features of burrow architecture in our key and species diagnoses. This provides a non-intrusive method for distinguishing species in the field. Finally, we conclude that all species within the turrificus -group are likely to represent short-range endemic taxa. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:F2E042DC-DA14-4751-A48B-A367ABC272D9 Within the spiny trapdoor spider genus Euoplos Rainbow exists a group of species from south-eastern Queensland that create unusual 'palisade' burrow entrances. Despite their intriguing burrows, the group was only recently circumscribed, and all species within it were undescribed. In this study we confirm that the palisade trapdoor spiders are monophyletic using phylogenetic analysis, before recognising four species based on morphological, molecular and behavioural characters. Because the unusual burrow entrances of these spiders exhibit structural autapomorphies, which allow species-level identification, we include features of burrow architecture in our key and species diagnoses, providing a non-intrusive method for distinguishing species in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of subterranean taxa discovered in the north of Western Australia has substantially increased due to the requirements for environmental surveys related to mining development. Challenges in estimating subterranean biodiversity and distributions are related to lack of knowledge of taxa with convergent morphological characters in a largely unobservable ecosystem setting. An integrated approach is warranted to understand such complexity. Bathynellidae occur in most Australian aquifers, but only one species has been described so far, and the group lacks a reliable taxonomic framework. A new genus and one new species from the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Pilbaranella ethelensis, gen. et sp. nov., is described using both morphological and molecular data. Three additional species of Pilbaranella are defined through mitochondrial and nuclear genes, using Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery and Poisson Tree Processes species delimitation methods. A comparison of morphology and 18S rRNA sequences between Pilbaranella, gen. nov. and known lineages provides the evidentiary basis for the decision to establish a new genus. This study provides a morphological and molecular framework to work with Bathynellidae, especially in Australia where a highly diverse fauna remains still undescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australasian spiny trapdoor spiders of the family Idiopidae (subfamily Arbanitinae) are revised at the generic level, using a multi-locus molecular phylogenetic foundation and comprehensive sampling of all known lineages. We propose a new family- and genus-group classification for the monophyletic Australasian fauna, and recognise 10 genera in four tribes. The Arbanitini Simon includes Arbanitis L. Koch, 1874 (61 species), Blakistonia Hogg, 1902 (one species) and Cantuaria Hogg, 1902 (43 species). The Aganippini Simon includes Bungulla Rix, Main, Raven & Harvey, gen. nov. (two species), Eucanippe Rix, Main, Raven&Harvey, gen. nov. (one species), Eucyrtops Pocock, 1897 (two species), Gaius Rainbow, 1914 (one species) and Idiosoma Ausserer, 1871 (14 species). The Cataxiini Rainbow and Euoplini Rainbow include just Cataxia Rainbow, 1914 (11 species) and Euoplos Rainbow, 1914 (12 species), respectively. Two distinctive new genera of Aganippini are described from Western Australia, and several previously valid genera are recognised as junior synonyms of existing genus-group names, including Misgolas Karsch, 1878 (= Arbanitis; new synonymy), Aganippe O. P.-Cambridge, 1877 (= Idiosoma; new synonymy) and Anidiops Pocock, 1897 (= Idiosoma; new synonymy). Gaius stat. rev. is further removed from synonymy of Anidiops. Other previously hypothesised generic synonyms are supported by both morphology and molecular phylogenetic data from 12 genes, including the synonymy of Neohomogona Main, 1985 and HomogonaRainbow, 1914 with Cataxia, and the synonymy of Albaniana Rainbow&Pulleine, 1918, Armadalia Rainbow& Pulleine, 1918, Bancroftiana Rainbow & Pulleine, 1918 and Tambouriniana Rainbow & Pulleine, 1918 with Euoplos. At the species level, the identifications of Eucy. latior (O. P.-Cambridge, 1877) and I. manstridgei (Pocock, 1897) are clarified, and three new species are described: Bungulla bertmaini Rix, Main, Raven & Harvey, sp. nov., Eucanippe bifida Rix, Main, Raven & Harvey, sp. nov. and Idiosoma galeosomoides Rix, Main, Raven & Harvey, sp. nov., the latter remarkable for its phragmotic abdominal morphology. The Tasmanian species Mygale annulipes C. L. Koch, 1842 is here transferred to the genus Stanwellia Rainbow & Pulleine, 1918 (family Nemesiidae), comb. nov., Arbanitis mestoni Hickman, 1928 is transferred to Cantuaria, comb. nov. and Idiosoma hirsutum Main, 1952 is synonymised with I. sigillatum (O. P.-Cambridge, 1870), new synonymy. In addition to the morphological synopses and an illustrated key to genera, molecular diagnoses are presented for all nominal taxa, along with live habitus and burrow images to assist in field identification. The Australasian idiopid fauna is highly diverse, with numerous new species known from all genera. As a result, this study provides a taxonomic and nomenclatural foundation for future species-level analyses, and a single reference point for the monographic documentation of a remarkable fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptic species are frequently being discovered in refugial habitats, such as desert springs and groundwater systems. Unfortunately, many of these taxa remain as unnamed entities years after their initial discovery. Recent advances in the use of molecular data and coalescent analyses allow DNA-based delimitation of species to move from single locus, tree-based methods to multilocus coalescent analyses. This study compares two DNA-based approaches to delimit species of putatively cryptic freshwater amphipods (Chiltoniidae) from desert springs in central Australia. In addition, a morphometric analysis of 11 characters was undertaken to determine whether the DNA-delimited species were morphologically distinguishable. The single locus method results in identification of lineages that are not supported as species under the multilocus coalescent analyses. We conclude that Wangiannachiltonia guzikae King, 2009, as currently circumscribed, represents six genetically distinct amphipod species, and we describe and name these species despite no clear diagnosable morphological differences. Critically, all of these newly recognised species have extremely limited distributions, which increases the biodiversity significance of their desert spring habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scirtidae is a cosmopolitan group of beetles with aquatic or saproxylic larvae. A large diversity of species has recently been described from Australia, but their systematics is uncertain. There is evidence that current genera are polyphyletic and that Australian species were wrongly placed in northern hemisphere genera. Here we investigate the systematics of Australian Scirtidae using molecular phylogenetic analyses of combined data from the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) and nuclear gene elongation factor 1-a (EF1-a) genes. We also assess the current taxonomy of Australian Scirtidae using partial COI sequences. Bayesian phylogenetic analyses of COI and EF1-a sequence data from81 taxa show that the Australian genera Contacyphon, Pseudomicrocara and Prionocyphon are polyphyletic. There is no close relationship between Australian and Eurasian genera, with the exception of Scirtes. Phylogenetic analyses of partial COI data from Australian Scirtidae generally support the current α taxonomy, with the exception of several species that may be associated with species complexes. Geographically a high proportion of species lineages are restricted to relict patches of wet forest suggesting that they may be relict populations. The phylogeny and sequence data presented here provide a sound basis for further systematic and biogeographical studies of the Scirtidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of two new non-marine ameirids from the southern Yilgarn region significantly extends the geographic range for this group in Australia and exposes weaknesses in the conservation and environmental impact assessment (EIA) of subterranean species potentially threatened by mining developments. Megastygonitocrella embe, sp. nov. differs from seven previously described Australian congeners by the armature of the second leg endopod and absence of spinules on the somites. A key to world species of Megastygonitocrella is presented. Phylogenetic analysis based on 57 morphological characters and 30 species belonging to the Stygonitocrella s.l. group suggests that Antistygonitocrella pardalotos, gen.et sp. nov. has noclose relatives anywhere in the world. Superficial similarities between the two new species are either plesiomorphies or homoplasies. The habitats of these new short-range endemic species are fractured-rock aquifers developed in Archaean greenstone, where the groundwater is characterised by acid conditions, high salinity and low dissolved oxygen. The population of A. pardalotos is threatened by a mining development. Despite the advanced level of environmental protection policy in Western Australia, our taxonomic study highlights limitations in EIA practices and discusses potential improvements which have global relevance in regions where short-range endemics coincide with extraction of mineral resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seven Australasian genera of blister beetles (Coleoptera : Meloidae : Nemognathinae) are reviewed. Included are a key to genera, generic synopses and descriptions of two new genera of Nemognathini, Australozonitis and Pulchrazonitis, as well as a new monotypic tribe Palaestrini, which features a bauplan of male genitalia unique not only to the subfamily Nemognathinae but to the entire family. The genus Palaestra is redefined to include several Australasian, Asian and African species previously assigned to Zonitis. Exceptional variation of male genitalia encountered in the Palaestrini challenges current subfamily definitions, which are partly based on male genitalic structure and correlated sexual behaviour. Generic synopses include synonyms, type species, number of species, geographic distribution, significant references on taxonomy, life history and morphology, and additional notes. Forty-six new combinations are proposed for species previously in Zonitis. Distribution and relationship of tribes within the Nemognathinae, as well as the biogeography of the Australasian Meloidae are outlined and discussed. Blister beetles (Meloidae) are an outstanding and diverse component of Australasian fauna, still virtually ignored by entomologists. This study focusses on the identification and characterisation of higher taxa occurring in the area, relating them to the worldwide blister beetle fauna. The morphological uniqueness of some groups led to the redefinition of genera and the description of new taxa, including a new tribe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the presence of cryptic species among three highly variable nereidid polychaetes commonly found in Australian coral reefs -- Nereis denhamensis Augener, 1913, Perinereis suluana (Horst, 1924) and Pseudonereis anomala Gravier, 1901 -- based on morphological and molecular data (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COI, and nuclear histone H3). DNA extracted and sequenced from 70 specimens from northern Australia and the Philippines indicated the existence of eight species: three matched the types of existing species; four are newly described (Nereis heronensis, sp. nov., N. lizardensis, sp. nov., Perinereispictilis, sp. nov. and Pseudonereis anomalopsis, sp. nov.) from NE Australia, and one species is described butnotnamed due to lack of material. Nereis denhamensis, N. heronensis, sp. nov. and N. lizardensis, sp. nov. are distinguished from each other by proboscidial paragnath number and morphology of the metamorphosed female. Perinereis suluana can only be separated from P. pictilis, sp. nov. by colour pattern, while Pseudonereis anomala, P. anomalopsis, sp. nov. and P. sp. differ in colour pattern and the number and arrangement of paragnaths. Nereis (Lycoris) tydemani from Maluku, Indonesia, is newly synonymised with P. anomala. Divergence times estimated using COI indicated that speciation in all three groups occurred in the mid Miocene (20-17 ® 7 mya), which corresponds to a period of restricted east-west dispersal as Australia collided with the Indo-Malay archipelago, followed by range expansion opportunities in NE Australia as a result of flourishing coral reefs responding to warming seas and rising sea levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eastern Australian aquifers remain mostly unexplored; however, recent surveys suggest that there could be substantial levels of subterranean biodiversity hidden in these aquifers. Groundwater fauna (stygofauna) is often characterised by short-range endemism. Furthermore, high levels of cryptic species, and lack of formal taxonomic descriptions and taxonomic expertise for many of the groups demand innovative approaches for assessing subterranean biodiversity. Here we evaluate the potential of using DNA barcoding as a rapid biodiversity assessment tool for the subterranean groundwater fauna of New South Wales, Australia. We experienced low amplification success using universal and more taxon-specific primers for PCR amplification of the barcoding gene (COI) in a range of crustacean stygofauna. Sequence comparisons of the most commonly used COI universal primers in selected crustacean taxa revealed high levels of variability. Our results suggest that successful amplification of the COI region from crustacean stygofauna is not straightforward using the standard 'universal' primers. We propose that the development of a multiprimer (taxon specific) and multigene approach for DNA barcode analyses, using next-generation sequencing methodologies, will help to overcome many of the technical problems reported here and provide a basis for using DNA barcoding for rapid biodiversity assessments of subterranean aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the complex nature of freshwater catchment divides and emerging evidence of high levels of genetic diversity, there is great potential for cryptic species to exist among Australian freshwater amphipod groups. Among the chiltoniid amphipods, two congeneric species, Austrochiltonia australis (Sayce, 1901) and A. subtenuis (Sayce, 1902), have been widely recorded across southern Australia yet are poorly known and contentiously defined. A large fragment of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene was examined and morphological diversity among populations assessed across the reported geographic range of the two putative species. The results confirmed A. australis and A. subtenuis as morphological and molecular species. In addition, two previously undetected and cryptic species from Tasmania are recognised - sister species to A. subtenuis and A. australis. Working conclusions provide evidence towards a more comprehensive systematic revision of the Chiltoniidae and present species information relevant to conservation and management efforts of Australian river systems. A key is presented to the chiltoniid amphipods of southern Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many smooth-barked Eucalyptus spp.in south-eastern Australia bear distinctive scribbles caused by the larva of some Ogmograptis spp. However, although these scribbles are conspicuous, the systematics and biology of the genus is poorly known. This has been addressed through detailed field and laboratory studies of the biology of three species (O. racemosa Horak, sp. nov., O. fraxinoides Horak, sp. nov., O. scribula Meyrick) in conjunction with a comprehensive taxonomic revision supported by a molecular phylogeny utilising the mitochondrial Cox1 and nuclear 18S genes. In brief, eggs are laid in bark depressions and the first-instar larvae bore into the bark to the level where the future cork cambium forms (the phellogen). Early-instar larvae bore wide, arcing tracks in this layer before forming a tighter zig-zag-shaped pattern. The second-last instar turns and bores either closely parallel to the initial mine or doubles its width, along the zig-zag-shaped mine. The final instar possesses legs and a spinneret (unlike the earlier instars) and feeds exclusively on callus tissue that forms within the zig-zag-shaped mine formed by the previous instar, before emerging from the bark to pupate at the base of the tree. The scars of mines then become visible scribbles following the shedding of the outer bark. Sequence data confirm the placement of Ogmograptis within the Bucculatricidae, suggest that the larvae responsible for the 'ghost scribbles' (raised scars found on smooth-barked eucalypts) are members of the related genus Tritymba Meyrick, and support the morphology-based species groups proposed for Ogmograptis. The formerly monotypic genus Ogmograptis Meyrick is revised and divided into three species groups. Eleven new species are described: Ogmograptis fraxinoides Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis racemosa Horak, sp. nov., and Ogmograptis pilularis Horak, sp. nov., forming the scribula group with Ogmograptis scribula Meyrick; Ogmograptis maxdayi Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis barloworum Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis paucidentatus Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis rodens Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis bignathifer Horak, sp. nov., and Ogmograptis inornatus Horak, sp. nov., as the maxdayi group; Ogmograptis bipunctatus Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis pulcher Horak, sp. nov., Ogmograptis triradiata (Turner), comb. nov., and Ogmograptis centrospila (Turner), comb. nov., as the triradiata group. Ogmograptis notosema (Meyrick) cannot be assigned to a species group as the holotype has not been located. Three unique synapomorphies, all derived from immatures, redefine the family Bucculatricidae, uniting Ogmograptis, Tritymba (both Australian) and Leucoedemia Scoble & Scholtz (African) with Bucculatrix Zeller, which is the sister group of the Southern Hemisphere genera. The systematic history of Ogmograptis and the Bucculatricidae is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megadrymus Gross is an endemic seed bug genus that occurs in subtropical and tropical wet and dry rainforest on the eastern and northern coasts of Australia. The genus is revised with the redescription of the type species M. terraereginae Gross, the transfer of Brentiscerus tenuicornis (Gross) to Megadrymus, and the description of five new species: M. aurorae, sp. nov., M. brunneus, sp. nov., M. capeyorkensis, sp. nov., M. kakadu, sp. nov. and M. refugiensis, sp. nov. A key to species is included. A phylogeny, and biological and distributional information, are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic revision of Mcateella is given including the description of seven new species: M. austera, sp. nov., M. coolgardie, sp. nov., M. esperancensis, sp. nov., M. exocarposa, sp. nov., M. kwoki, sp. nov., M. reidi, sp. nov. and M. schuhi, sp. nov. The following species are redescribed: M. elongata Hacker M. gibber Drake, M. interioris Hacker and M. splendida Drake. Mcateella is defined as a monophyletic group on the basis of clavate guard setae and the stridulatory apparatus. Phylogenetic analysis of the Piesmatidae recognised Eopiesma as the sister-taxon relative to the remaining extant Piesmatidae. The ingroup relationships of Mcateella contained one polytomy. Miespa was found to be the sister taxon to Mcateella, positing a transantarctic relationship. Host plant analysis indicates that Mcateella are not all Acacia specialists as stated in the literature but feed on a wide range of angiosperms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]