Search

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has gained prominence worldwide as a powerful tool in public health. This study aimed to monitor the circulation of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) from wastewater samples collected during a six-year period and compare these results with clinical surveillance in the central region of Argentina. From 2017 to 2022, 1008 raw wastewater samples were analyzed, including four wastewater treatment plants from four cities (n=319), and 7 local neighborhood collector sewers in Córdoba city (n=689). Serum and/or stool samples from patients suspected of HEV infection were also analyzed (n=48). HEV molecular detection and viral load quantification were performed by real time RT-qPCR, and genetic characterization by two RT-Nested PCRs (targeting partial ORF-1 and ORF-2 genomic regions), sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Fifty-three (5.3%) wastewater samples were RNA-HEV positive by real time RT-qPCR, with variations according to the location and year (0.0% - 21.6%). Out of these, ORF-2 genomic region was amplified in 20 samples (37.7%) and ORF-1 partial region in 12 (22.6%), and eighteen sequences were obtained. Throughout the study period, two (4.2%) HEV confirmed infections were reported, and one sequence was obtained. Phylogenetic analyses for both genomic regions showed that all the isolates were genotype HEV-3 clade abchijklm. Our study detected HEV in wastewater over a six-year period, despite a low number of clinical cases, emphasizing WBE as a valuable tool that complements clinical surveillance, by detecting pathogens' presence; identifying their transmission, circulation dynamics and excretion hotspots; and revealing changes in their genomic diversity., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The novel Equine Parvovirus-Hepatitis (EqPV-H) was first identified in the serum and liver of a horse that died of equine serum hepatitis, also known as Theiler's disease. Several reports in recent years strongly suggest that EqPV-H is the etiologic agent of Theiler's disease. Brazil is the only South American country where infection with this virus has been reported. This study investigated the presence of EqPV-H DNA in horse serum pools (n=51), commercial horse serum batches (n=5) and individual serum samples from donor horses (n=175) from Argentina. All serum samples were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and samples with positive or indeterminate results were further analyzed by NS1 nested-PCR for phylogenetic studies. None of the serum pools was positive by qPCR but 9/51 pools were indeterminate (one or both test sample's Ct values were higher than the limit of detection). The NS1 nested-PCR detected the EqPV-H DNA in 8 of these indeterminate samples (15.7 % of serum pools). Three of the commercial horse serum batches (60 %) contained EqPV-H DNA, detected either by qPCR and/or nested-PCR. From the 175 individual horse serum samples, three (1.71 %) were positive for EqPV-H by both techniques. The genetic analysis of the 12 partial NS1 sequences obtained showed that the local isolates were similar to EqPV-H sequences from Germany and China. This study provides the first evidence of the presence of EqPV-H in horses and in horse sera commercially available in Argentina and emphasizes the importance of controlling the biosecurity of commercial equine sera as well as any other blood-derived biological products of equine origin. DATA AVAILABILITY: Viral sequences generated in this study were uploaded to the NCBI nucleotide database and are available with the accession numbers PP408676-PP408687., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None of the authors has any financial or personal relationships that could inappropriately influence or bias the content of the paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Notocotylidae is a family with a cosmopolitan distribution, with 13 genera parasitizing birds and mammals. Four of these genera were registered in the Americas, and two parasitizing rodents in Argentina. In this paper, specimens of the genus Hippocrepis parasitizing Holochilus brasiliensis from Argentina are studied on the basis of morphological and molecular characteristics. Eleven Ho. brasiliensis specimens were collected in seven localities from the Cuenca del Plata region. A total of 192 specimens of digeneans were found in a single Ho. brasiliensis. Conventional morphological and molecular analyses were used. The digenean specimens were identified as Hippocrepis fuelleborni. Furthermore, the molecular characterization of three genetic markers for Hi. fuelleborni is provided. This study contributes to the first record of the genus Hippocrepis in cricetid rodents. The continuity of the studies on this genus and the incorporation of more haplotypes from different genera of Notocotylidae will allow us to recognize the relationship among genera and provide a new systematic proposal.

New world coralsnakes of the genus Micrurus are a diverse radiation of highly venomous and brightly colored snakes that range from North Carolina to Argentina. Species in this group have played central roles in developing and testing hypotheses about the evolution of mimicry and aposematism. Despite their diversity and prominence as model systems, surprisingly little is known about species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships within Micrurus, which has substantially hindered meaningful analyses of their evolutionary history. Here we use mitochondrial genes together with thousands of nuclear genomic loci obtained via ddRADseq to study the phylogenetic relationships and population genomics of a subclade of the genus Micrurus: The M. diastema species complex. Our results indicate that prior species and species-group inferences based on morphology and color pattern have grossly misguided taxonomy, and that the M. diastema complex is not monophyletic. Based on our analyses of molecular data, we infer the phylogenetic relationships among species and populations, and provide a revised taxonomy for the group. Two non-sister species-complexes with similar color patterns are recognized, the M. distans and the M. diastema complexes, the first being basal to the monadal Micrurus and the second encompassing most North American monadal taxa. We examined all 13 species, and their respective subspecies, for a total of 24 recognized taxa in the M. diastema species complex. Our analyses suggest a reduction to 10 species, with no subspecific designations warranted, to be a more likely estimate of species diversity, namely, M. apiatus, M. browni, M. diastema, M. distans, M. ephippifer, M. fulvius, M. michoacanensis, M. oliveri, M. tener, and one undescribed species., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Freshwater sulfide springs have extreme environmental conditions that only few vertebrate species can tolerate. These species often develop a series of morphological and molecular adaptations to cope with the challenges of life under the toxic and hypoxic conditions of sulfide springs. In this paper, we described a new fish species of the genus Jenynsia, Anablepidae, from a sulfide spring in Northwestern Argentina, the first in the family known from such extreme environment. Jenynsia sulfurica n. sp. is diagnosable by the lack of scales on the pre-pelvic area or the presence of a single row of scales, continuous or not, from the isthmus to the bases of the pelvic fins. Additionally, it presents a series of morphological and molecular characteristics that appear convergent with those seen in other fish species (e.g., Poeciliids) inhabiting sulfide springs. Most notably, J. sulfurica has an enlarged head and postorbital area compared to other fish of the genus and a prognathous lower jaw with a hypertrophied lip, thought to facilitate respiration at the air-water interface. Analyses of cox1 sequence showed that J. sulfurica has two unique mutations resulting in amino acid substitutions convergent to those seen in Poeciliids from sulfide springs and known to provide a physiological mechanism related to living in sulfide environments. A phylogenetic analysis, including molecular and morphological characters, placed J. sulfurica as sister taxa to J. alternimaculata, a species found in nearby, non-sulfide habitats directly connected to the sulfide springs. Thus, it can be inferred that the selection imposed by the presence of H2S has resulted in the divergence between these two species and has potentially served as a barrier to gene flow., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

A new species of Didymium (Myxomycetes), D. azorellae, isolated from plant debris in a moist chamber, collected during studies of cold arid areas of Argentina and Peru, is described. It can be distinguished by its small size, the tightly packed layer of lime crystals on the peridium, the very scant, or absent, capillitium, and the unique spore ornamentation, especially by scanning electron microscopy. The species developed on dead leaves of cushion plants growing in the extremely harsh environments of the central Andean puna at almost 5000 m elevation and the Andino- Patagonian steppe. Morphology was examined with scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy, and micrographs of relevant details are included here. In order to confirm the identity of the new species described in this paper, a molecular study was conducted based on partial sequences of both the 18S rRNA and the elongation factor 1-alpha gene. Phylogenetic analysis including two specimens from different countries of the newly described species, Didymium azorellae, strongly supports the grouping of these specimens as a separate clade from the rest of the analyzed species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Argentina, the Monte ecoregion extends for more than 2,000 km from NW Argentina to boreal Patagonia, and includes many salt-pans and barren flatlands colonized by the monophyletic Liolaemus anomalus group that includes seven species. Some of their external morphological characteristics and behaviors are very unusual for the genus, and this has led to a complex taxonomic history. The group is very poorly known except for a recent paper with descriptions of three species and morphological-based phylogenetic hypotheses. Of the four recognized species, two are threatened and one is vulnerable, and while the conservation status of the three recently described species is unknown, they are suspected to also be under some degree of threat. We reviewed all georeferenced localities known to produce a distribution map, and sequenced two mitochondrial and four nuclear genes, for representatives of all species. We inferred a time-calibrated species tree showing that the evolutionary history of this clade occurred entirely during the Pleistocene, with most of the divergences very recent. The climatic and geomorphological changes driving this divergence started during the Great Patagonian Glaciation, initially separating the two northwestern-most distributed species (L. pipanaco + L. pseudoanomalus) from the rest. Given the very recent evolutionary history of the group and their unique and conserved morphology, incongruent topologies among datasets are expected; a detailed genome-wide dataset will be needed to fully assess and resolve their speciation history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathewsia (6 spp.) and Schizopetalon (10 spp.) are sister genera of the tribe Schizopetaleae (Brassicaceae, Cruci-ferae). The genera are mostly endemic to Chile and neighboring areas of Peru and Argentina, with most species growing in the hyperarid Atacama Desert and adjacent areas. This geographic distribution and the presence of different life forms in Mathewsia (perennial) and Schizopetalon (annual) provide the opportunity to compare patterns of diversification under ex-treme environmental pressure. In this paper, phylogenetic relationships are estimated for 17 species using a combination of two nuclear regions (rDNA ITS+ETS) and four plastid regions (atpI-atpH, trnQ-rpsl6, trnH-pshA spacers, and rpsl6 intron) using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian approaches. Analyses of the combined cpDNA and the combined nrDNA result in topologies that are highly similar, although several instances of topological incongruence are noted. Results from all three criteria and all datasets support the monophyly of Schizopetalon, but not of Mathewsia. Mathewsia is rendered non-monophyletic because M. nivea is placed outside of Schizopetaleae (Mathewsia+Schizopetalon); a result that is also sup-ported by morphology. The monophyly of some species is confirmed; however, several currently recognized species were not recovered as a clade and will require additional study. Further analyses are needed to resolve the placement of M nivea and the origins of discordant nuclear and plastid signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pear decline (PD) is an important disease affecting pear production worldwide and " Candidatus Phytoplasma pyri" (subgroup 16SrX-C) is the etiological agent of this disease. In Argentina, typical symptomatology of PD was described in pear trees located in Río Negro province. Infected trees showed leaf redness and loss of vigor. Nested PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene (R16F2n/R16R2) were performed to detect the presence of phytoplasmas in ∼69% of total symptomatic samples. Virtual and actual RFLP patterns of PD Argentinean isolates shared 100% of coincidence with RFLP profile of the subgroup 16SrX-C. Moreover, identity similarity and phylogenetic analyses of partial 16S rRNA sequence showed that PD phytoplasma described in this paper is a " Ca. P. pyri"- related strain. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on " Ca. P. pyri" affecting pears in Argentina. • Phytoplasmas causing pear decline were detected for the first time in Argentina. • Molecular identification of " Ca. Phytoplasma pyri" based on 16Sr RNA gene analysis. • First evidence of " Ca. P. pyri" affecting pears in Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aucasaurus garridoi is an abelisaurid theropod from the Anacleto Formation (lower Campanian, Upper Cretaceous) of Patagonia, Argentina. The holotype of Aucasaurus garridoi includes cranial material, axial elements, and almost complete fore- and hind limbs. Here we present a detailed description of the axial skeleton of this taxon, along with some paleobiological and phylogenetic inferences. The presacral elements are somewhat fragmentary, although these show features shared with other abelisaurids. The caudal series, to date the most complete among brachyrostran abelisaurids, shows several autapomorphic features including the presence of pneumatic recesses on the dorsal surface of the anterior caudal neural arches, a tubercle lateral to the prezygapophysis of mid caudal vertebrae, a marked protuberance on the lateral rim of the transverse process of the caudal vertebrae, and the presence of a small ligamentous scar near the anterior edge of the dorsal surface in the anteriormost caudal transverse process. The detailed study of the axial skeleton of Aucasaurus garridoi has also allowed us to identify characters that could be useful for future studies attempting to resolve the internal phylogenetic relationships of Abelisauridae. Computed tomography scans of some caudal vertebrae show pneumatic traits in neural arches and centra, and thus the first reported case for an abelisaurid taxon. Moreover, some osteological correlates of soft tissues present in Aucasaurus and other abelisaurids, especially derived brachyrostrans, underscore a previously proposed increase in axial rigidity within Abelisauridae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Neotropical brown stink bug Euschistus heros F. (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is the main soybean pest in Brazil, for which two major lineages (i. e. "Northern" and "Southern") were identified. First recorded in Argentina in 2001, up to now no molecular studies have been performed on E. heros specimens occurring within the country. Here, partial sequencing of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and cytochrome b (Cytb) genes revealed that brown stink bugs collected both in central and northern Argentina belonged to the "Southern" lineage and exhibited high genetic variability. This emerging pest has been detected recently in Marcos Juárez county, at the core of the Argentinian soybean producing region. The species composition of the soybean stink bug complex was investigated in this area during 2016, 2018 and 2020. The cosmopolitan Nezara viridula L. was the most abundant pentatomid along the whole study, accounting for 83–93% of the total captures in each season. The other members of the complex were Piezodorus guildinii West., Dichelops furcatus F., Edessa meditabunda F. (all of which were found during the three years of survey) and E. heros (recorded in 2018 and 2020). Though E. heros constituted a small share of the daily total stink bug catches (0—1.6%), this incipient pest invasion should be monitored in order to adopt adequate control measures for preventing eventual outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peltephilidae (Xenarthra, Cingulata) is an ancient lineage of medium–large‐sized 'armadillos' from South America, characterized by chisel‐shaped molariforms, a U‐shaped dental arcade, and cephalic osteoderms modified into hornlike structures. Although the biochron of the group extends from the early Eocene to the Late Miocene, the most abundant and complete records come from the Early Miocene of Patagonia. Remains from the Late Miocene are very scarce, and the last records of the group are from the Chasicoan Stage (Tortonian). The only taxon known from this interval is Epipeltephilus kanti from the Arroyo Chasicó Formation (9.23 ± 0.09 Ma; Buenos Aires Province, Argentina), a species previously represented only by a few isolated osteoderms. Here we report new remains assigned to E. kanti from the Late Miocene of Loma de Las Tapias Formation (c. 9.0–7.8 Ma; San Juan Province, Argentina), including a hemimandible and several fixed and mobile osteoderms. These new specimens constitute the youngest record of Peltephilidae. The inclusion of E. kanti within Epipeltephilus and the monophyly of the genera Peltephilus and Epipeltephilus are corroborated for the first time through a cladistic analysis. The decline and eventual disappearance of this 'armadillo' group in the Late Miocene is chronologically coincident with the replacement of subtropical/tropical environments by more open and arid ones and with the proliferation of other large armadillos such as Vetelia, Macrochorobates, and Macroeuphractus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a contribution to the current knowledge of taxonomy, ecology and distribution of South American Cortinarius (Pers.) Gray. Cortinarius is among the most widely distributed and species-rich basidiomycete genera occurring with South American Nothofagaceae and species are found in many distinct habitats, including shrublands and forests. Due to their ectomycorrhizal role, Cortinarius species are critical for nutrient cycling in forests, especially at higher latitudes. Some species have also been reported as edible fungi with high nutritional quality. Our aim is to unravel the taxonomy of selected Cortinarius belonging to phlegmacioid and myxotelamonioid species based on morphological and molecular data. After widely sampling Cortinarius specimens in Patagonian Nothofagaceae forests and comparing them to reference collections (including holotypes), we propose five new species of Cortinarius in this work. Phylogenetic analyses of concatenated rDNA ITS-LSU and RPB1 sequences failed to place these new species into known Cortinarius sections or lineages. These findings highlight our knowledge gaps regarding the fungal diversity of South American Nothofagaceae forests. Due to the high diversity of endemic Patagonian taxa, it is clear that the South American Cortinarius diversity needs to be discovered and described in order to understand the evolutionary history of Cortinarius on a global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the genus Strigea Abildgaard, 1790 are endoparasites of birds distributed worldwide. Adults of an undescribed species of the genus Strigea were collected from the intestines of two hawk species (Rupornis magnirostris and Accipiter coperii). Other species identified as Parastrigea macrobursa that were described in Argentina were also recovered from two hawk species (Buteogallus urubitinga and Buteogallus anthracinus) in three localities along the coasts of Mexico. Specimens of the two species were sequenced for three molecular markers, the internal transcribed spacers locus (ITS1-5.8S rDNA- ITS2) and the domains D1–D3 from the large subunit from nuclear ribosomal DNA and the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 from mitochondrial DNA. The newly sequenced specimens were aligned with other strigeids sequences downloaded from GenBank. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses inferred with each molecular marker revealed that our specimens of Strigea sp. formed an independent lineage, which is recognized herein as a new species, Strigea magnirostris n. sp., representing the first species in Mexico and the 16th in the Neotropical region. Morphologically, the new species is distinguished from other congeneric species from the Americas by having an oral sucker with several papillae around it, well-developed pseudosuckers (118–248 μm), a tegument covered with tiny spines, a larger cone genital (193–361 × 296–637) and a larger copulatory bursa (247–531 × 468–784). Our phylogenetic analyses revealed that P. macrobursa is not closely related to other members of the genus Parastrigea and is nested within Strigea , suggesting that P. macrobursa should be transferred to Strigea to form Strigea macrobursa n. comb., expanding its distribution range from Mexico to Argentina. Finally, the analyses also revealed that the taxonomy and systematics of Strigea should be re-evaluated, combining morphological and molecular characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South America, the family Philometridae is represented by several genera and species. In particular, Philometra and Philometroides are the most speciose genera. In Argentina, only Philometroides tahieli has been reported so far. The main objective of this study was to analyze the phylogenetic relationship between Ps. tahieli and other South American philometrids using molecular data. The molecular analysis was performed using a female specimen of Ps. tahieli found on the opercular muscle of a juvenile Micropogonias furnieri from brackish waters in Argentina. Phylogenetic relationships were studied based on partial sequences of the 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA genes. In the 18S rDNA tree, Ps. tahieli was mainly grouped with other Philometroides from freshwater hosts from China, sharing the site of infection (head tissues or muscles). In the 28S rDNA tree, obtained with fewer sequences, Ps. tahieli is related species from subcutaneous tissues of head. This study contributes with information on philometrids and confirms the presence of different lineages among South American species, with Ps. tahieli representing a new one. Further studies on South American species using more molecular markers and new morphological characters will improve our knowledge of philometrid biodiversity and phylogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new Hymenolepis species is described parasitizing Sigmodontine rodents in Argentina. • An update of species in Hymenolepididae from rodents is provided. • Hymenolepis species from North-South American rodents are morphologically analyzed. • Phylogenetic inferences of Hymenolepididae from rodents are proposed. Rodents are hosts of a wide diversity of cestodes. Fifteen genera included in the family Hymenolepididae parasitize rodents, and only four of these genera have been recorded from the Neotropical region. The purpose of this paper is to update species of Hymenolepididae from rodents, describe a new species of Hymenolepis based on morphological and molecular characterization (ITS1 rDNA and cox1 mtDNA), comparing the features among the species from North and South American rodents, and provide phylogenetic inferences of Hymenolepididae from rodents based on sequences available in the GenBank. Rodents were collected in the Parque Provincial Ernesto Tornquist, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Hymenolepis ivanovae n. sp. differs from other Hymenolepis species registered from North and South American rodents by body size, scolex, suckers, cirrus sac, cirrus, testes, and eggs, among others. Comparative morphometric data for Hymenolepis species from North and South American rodents is provided. Molecular analyses place H. ivanovae n. sp. within the genus Hymenolepis with strong support, and show it close to species of zoonotic importance. The new species is the first species of Hymenolepis described from Sigmodontinae rodents. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the diverse subfamily Dipsadinae, Imantodini represents one of the few groups distributed in North, Central and South America. The tribe comprises the genera Leptodeira and Imantodes, from which Leptodeira is the most diverse, including 15 species and 11 subspecies, distributed from southern USA to central Argentina. Taxonomy and affinities among these taxa are poorly resolved, and the phylogenetic relationships among the South American diversity were never properly assessed before. Here, we investigate the phylogenetic relationships and the taxonomic status of Leptodeira spp. based on a comprehensive multilocus dataset with emphasis in the South American radiation. Besides assessing the phylogenetic relationship and species cohesion, we also evaluate the morphological variation among the South American diversity of Leptodeira. Our results support the monophyly of Imatodini and Leptodeira, while indicating that several individuals classified as Leptodeira annulata and L. septentrionalis do not cluster together within their respective species. Moreover, specimens identified as belonging to the subspecies L. a. annulata, L. a. cussiliris, L. s. ornata and L. s. polysticta do not group together suggesting the current classification includes non‐natural groups. The analysis of morphological evidence also supports the phylogenetics results, indicating that several clades can be recognized as evolutionary units presenting distinct phenotypes. To equate the taxonomy to our results, we propose a new taxonomic arrangement for Leptodeira in which we are: (1) redefining the composition of L. annulata and L. septentrionalis; (2) elevating five subspecies to species level; (3) revalidating one species; (4) recognizing four species complexes; and (5) indicating the presence of hidden diversity (probably four undescribed species). Finally, we describe a new species (Leptodeira tarairiu sp. nov.) from the open formations of South America (Cerrado and Caatinga), and we provide detailed redescriptions for all South American species of Leptodeira. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benedetto, J.L. 2013: Presence of punctae in the 'plectorthoidean' brachiopod Famatinorthis turneri (Middle Ordovician) from western Argentina: implications for early diversification of punctate orthides. Lethaia, Vol. 46, pp. 170-179. Famatinorthis Levy & Nullo is a distinctive orthide brachiopod of Dapingian age from the volcaniclastic rocks of the Famatina Range of western Argentina. Although it was originally classified among the plectorthoideans, a new collection from the La Escondida Formation has yielded exceptionally well-preserved moulds of Famatinorthis turneri in which silicified infillings of punctae are clearly visible, leading to the reassignment of the genus to the dalmanellidines. In this paper, phylogenetic analyses are used to determine the evolutionary relationships of Famatinorthis, the Tremadocian linoporellid Lipanorthis, and other Ordovician Gondwanan genera. The placement of Plectorthoidea in the same major clade as linoporellids, and the separation of Dalmanellidina as an independent clade are the most important features of all shortest trees, supporting the idea that linoporellids may have originated from a plectorthoid ancestor. Cladistic analysis reveals that Lipanorthis lies close to the ancestry of the linoporellid lineage, and Famatinorthis clusters within the more derived taxa of the clade with which it shares a large septalium. It seems that the presence of endopunctae in the orthides does not necessarily indicate close phylogenetic relationships as it could have occurred at different times in different clades. If the homoplasic nature of endopunctae in the order Orthida is supported by further morphologic and phylogenetic studies, the fundamental division of orthides in non-punctate (Orthidina) and punctate (Dalmanellidina) may need revision. □ Brachiopods, Ordovician, Gondwana, Famatina, phylogeny, punctate orthides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phylogenetic position of the "Upper yungas inca hocicudo" Oxymycterus juliacae, one of the lesser-known species of the genus Oxymycterus, is still unresolved. Several authors considered it a subspecies or synonym of Oxymycterus inca, but more recently, it was recognized as a valid species based on morphometric analysis and morphological traits. The objectives of this study were then to substantiate the morphological distinction of O. juliacae and evaluate its phylogenetic position using cytochrome b sequences. We evaluated the morphology of O. juliacae and compared it with congeneric species. In addition, a Cytochrome b gene matrix was subjected to analyses of maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. Our results support the morphometric and morphological distinction of O. juliacae and found that this species is more closely related to Oxymycterus willkaurco than to O. inca. Therefore, the recognition of O. juliacae as a full species is supported and a rediagnosis is provided. In addition, we found O. inca is more related to other lowland species from Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, than to central Andean species. More efforts are needed to secure genetic material of Oxymycterus species, mainly the Andean species, for a better understanding of their phylogenetic relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was performed on a collection of 84 isolates from decaying plant tissues and soils in Argentina previously identified as Trichoderma harzianum. Based on multiple phenotypic characters and multilocus phylogenetic analyses, 10 species were distinguished, three of which are described as new species: T. austroindianum, T. hortense, and T. syagri. Among the remaining seven identified species, the following five can be added to the Argentine mycobiota: T. afarasin, T. afroharzianum, T. endophyticum, T. guizhouense, and T. neotropicale. Trichoderma afroharzianum and T. endophyticum were the most frequent species found in the samples. In addition, a collection of isolates previously identified as T. harzianum with antagonistic abilities were reidentified as T. afroharzianum, thus highlighting the importance of correct identification of biocontrol species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of the transition from Holostei to Teleostei, †Pachycormiformes represent a key group of fishes. However, the anatomy and phylogenetic relationships of the group in the context of the neopterygians are far from being understood. In this contribution we describe a new pachycormiform, †Kaykay lafken gen. et sp. nov., from the Upper Jurassic of Argentina. We made an exhaustive review of morphological characters of holostean and teleostean fishes and explore through a cladistic analysis the phylogenetic relationships of the new species. †Kaykay gen. nov. is retrieved among †Pachycormiformes as being the sister taxon of the macrocarnivorous clade composed of †Orthocormus and †Hypsocormus. Among †Pachycormiformes the pattern of relationships mostly agrees with previous hypotheses, although our study highlights the still poor knowledge of the anatomy of this group. According to our results †Saurostomus is the sister taxon of other toothed pachycormids. †Orthocormus species are recovered as a monophyletic group. The unsolved position of †Pachycormus and †Sauropsis might be a consequence of poor preservation, revealing a lack of understanding of their anatomy. Our phylogenetic analysis also confirms the rapid radiation of holosteans and teleosteomorphs in the Early Triassic and the radiation of pholidophoriforms in the Middle Triassic. †Aspidorhynchoidei radiate in the Early Jurassic. The large ghost ranges (e.g. between †Aspidorhynchoidei and Teleosteomorpha) evidence biases in the fossil record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Brucepattersonius currently includes eight valid species from the Atlantic Forest of south-eastern Brazil and north-eastern Argentina. Most of those species were described in the past 20 years, based on very small sample sizes: four species are known only from their type localities. Concerns on the taxonomic validity of some Brucepattersonius species have been raised in the recent literature. In this study, we present a phylogenetic hypothesis including samples throughout the distribution of the genus (among them the holotypes of two species) and employed single-locus molecular species delimitation analyses to provide a new hypothesis for species limits within Brucepattersonius. We also analysed intra- and interpopulation morphological and morphometric variation to apply an integrative taxonomic approach to species delimitation. Our phylogenetic inference of molecular data recovered four strongly supported clades within Brucepattersonius, which were recognized as distinct operational taxonomic units in all species delimitation analyses. The first two clades represent the Caparaó mountain range endemic B. griserufescens and its sister-group, the recently described species B. nebulosus. The third clade comprises several specimens assigned to B. soricinus but also includes the holotype of B. igniventris; we revise these species limits accordingly. The last clade is composed of samples from southern Brazil assigned to B. iheringi. Based on morphological and morphometric analyses, we find no clear structure among the three described species from Misiones Province, Argentina (B. guarani, B. misionensis and B. paradisus) and B. inheringi from southern Brazil, suggesting that those samples represent a single species. Therefore, in the present study we propose that the genus Brucepattersonius comprises only four diagnosable species: B. griserufescens (including B. albinasus), B. nebulosus, B. soricinus (including B. igniventris) and B. iheringi (including B. guarani, B. misionensis and B. paradisus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new genus and species, Natantisphyllum crenae from the Late Cretaceous, central-western Argentina, assigned to the family Araceae was described based on fossil vegetative remains. The morphology of the leaves, especially the venation pattern of several vein orders, were compared with leaves of fossil and extant floating aquatic aroids. We performed a phylogenetic analysis to test the position of the new fossil in a phylogenetic tree and its relationship with other living and fossil representatives of Araceae. Natantisphyllum crenae possesses an unique combination of characters, then it cannot be placed within any other fossil or extant recognised aroid taxa and constitutes the southernmost record of a floating aquatic aroid. The phylogenetic relationships of the new fossil with other members of Araceae suggest that N. crenae is closely related to the fossil Aquaephyllum auriculatum. Both fossils from South America appear related to the modern aquatic Pistia and Lemnoideae and the fossil taxa from North America (Lymnobiophyllum and Cobbania) sharing a common ancestor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this contribution we introduce a new Late Triassic archosaur, Incertovenator longicollum gen. et sp. nov., with an unusual combination of character states that are present in certain early avemetatarsalian and pseudosuchian archosaur clades. The holotype consists of a partial postcranial skeleton, preserving most of the axial skeleton and displaying a marked anteroposterior elongation in the cervical vertebrae. We include I. longicollum gen. et sp. nov. into one of the most comprehensive early archosaur phylogenetic data sets available, and recover it as either an early diverging avemetatarsalian, closely associated with the clade Aphanosauria and Ornithodira, or as an early diverging loricatan closely related to Mandasuchus tanyauchen in the most parsimonious trees. We further evaluate which alternative phylogenetic positions can I. longicollum gen. et sp. nov. take in the suboptimal trees, and determined which character states support those alternative positions in comparison with those of the unconstrained analysis. The analyses recover the new taxon in three main general phylogenetic placements within Archosauria, as well as one position outside this clade, highlighting widespread morphological evolutionary convergence towards neck elongation in several clades of Triassic archosauriforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental and craniomandibular data have been predominantly used to infer relationships among mylodontid ground sloths. Recent studies indicate the osteology of the manus also provides useful data to test phylogenetic relationships in mylodontine mylodontids. Here we provide new comparative data from the study of the manus of a member of the Scelidotheriinae, Scelidotherium Owen, 1839, based on specimens from the Province of Córdoba that provide information on the variation and systematic relationships of the genus. The Scelidotherium material from the Province of Córdoba in central Argentina presents several morphological differences with material of the genus from northwestern Argentina. The manus of Scelidotherium shares several traits with Catonyx Ameghino, 1891, but not with Valgipes Gervais, 1874. These include: trapezoid with a sharp ridge on the articular surface for metacarpal II; magnum with at least half of articular surface for metacarpal II located on the dorsal half of the medial and distal aspects of the bone; metacarpal II with a notch on the axial border of its distal articular surface; and ungual process of the distal phalanx of the second digit markedly dorsopalmarly flattened. A phylogenetic analysis that includes osteological characters of the manus indicates that within the family Scelidotheriinae, Scelidotherium is more closely related to Catonyx than to Valgipes or Proscelidodon gracillimus Rovereto, 1914. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The known diversity of the genus Liolaemus continues to increase, principally due to its great degree of endemism, the increasing number of researchers working on it, and advances in the taxonomic and phylogenetic knowledge of the genus. This diversity positions Liolaemus as the second most species-rich tetrapod genus. The present work adds to evidence for the great diversity of Liolaemus through the description of two new species, endemic to saline environments in the Argentinian Puna. Both species are members of the Liolaemus montanus group within the subgenus Eulaemus. To determine the taxonomic status of these lizards, we used integrative taxonomy as a tool, incorporating phylogenetic, morphological, and molecular genetic evidence, as well as the anatomy of hemipenes, statistical morphological analysis, and ecological characteristics. Our analyses supported the conclusion that both sampled populations of lizards are species new to science. One of these is found along the margins of the Antofalla salt flats in the Catamarca Province and the Hombre Muerto salt flats in the Salta Province. The other new species inhabits saline habitats vegetated by Lycium humile, principally between the salt crusts of the Antofalla salt flats. Both species are small to medium sized and can be distinguished from all other species of the L. montanus group by unique combinations of morphological characters, primarily pholidosis and dorsal and ventral colour patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The South American Ctenomys is the most speciose genus among both hystricomorphs and subterranean rodents of the world. Here, we present the most exhaustive phylogenies and timetree of living and extinct Ctenomys attempted thus far. We describe Ctenomys rusconii sp. nov., a small-sized species from the upper Early Pleistocene of central Argentina. We analyse its cranial and mandibular shape as well as its phylogenetic position in the context of other extinct Ctenomys and a wide sample of living species. A parsimony analysis shows that Ctenomys rusconii sp. nov. integrates the stem group of Ctenomys together with late Pliocene to Middle Pleistocene species, while the crown group comprises only Middle Pleistocene to recent representatives. Within the crown Ctenomys, nine well-supported major clades were recovered, eight of which are consistent with previously recognized extant species groups. A Bayesian tip-dating analysis provided divergence age estimates of 3.8 Ma and 1.3 Ma for the origin of the genus and the crown clade, respectively. Remarkably, the extinct species recovered as members of the crown clade, i.e. C. dasseni, C. kraglievichi, C. subassentiens and C. viarapaensis, were clustered into the earliest diverging clade corresponding to the frater species group. Age estimates for the divergence of the crown and its major clades are markedly younger than what has been generally considered so far, which implies a new view on the timing of taxonomic, ecological and geographical diversification of the genus. Even considering that this interpretation is affected by biases inherent to the fossil record, the phylogenetic delimitation of the crown clade as restricted to species recorded since the Middle Pleistocene seems to configure a pattern underlain by a fast and late cladogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are becoming increasingly aware of the dazzling diversity of fungi—new taxa are being discovered from poorly sampled habitats and integrative approaches point at (near-)cryptic species in many groups. The class Laboulbeniomycetes, which is composed of three orders (Herpomycetales, Laboulbeniales, Pyxidiophorales), is no exception. However, still, in the orders Herpomycetales and Laboulbeniales, species are predominantly described based on morphology alone. Here, we present a new species of Herpomyces from Argentina parasitic on Periplaneta fuliginosa, the smokybrown cockroach. Herpomyces spegazzinii, sp. nov., is characterized based on morphology and molecular data. Phylogenetic inference based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS, consisting of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) barcode region supports the status of this fungus as a separate species, sister to the recently described H. shelfordellae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the marine dinophyte genus Heterocapsa Stein is described. Two clonal strains originating from Argentinean coastal waters were examined with light and electron microscopy and LSU and ITS rDNA sequence data were obtained. Heterocapsa claromecoensis sp. nov. is described as a distinctive species with a conical epitheca, a similar sized and rounded hypotheca, a single reticulate chloroplast situated in the periphery of the cell, and a large pyrenoid in the episome, above an ellipsoidal to rounded nucleus in the hyposome. The plate tabulation pattern of Po (pore plate), cp (cover plate), X (X-plate or canal plate), 5ꞌ, 3a, 7ꞌꞌ, 6c, 5s, 5ꞌꞌꞌ, 2ꞌꞌꞌꞌ was as for most other species of Heterocapsa. H. claromecoensis sp. nov. differs from all other species of Heterocapsa by the microarchitecture of two different types of organic body scales, which uniquely were different in height. Phylogenetic trees based on LSU and ITS rDNA sequences placed H. claromecoensis in a separate branch, with a sequence assigned to H. orientalis being the closest match based on LSU rDNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We performed an integrated phylogeographical and palaeoclimatic study of an early-diverging member of Asteraceae, Duseniella patagonica , endemic to Argentina. Chloroplast and nuclear markers were sequenced from 106 individuals belonging to 20 populations throughout the species range. We analysed genetic spatial distribution, diversity and structure, tested for range expansion, estimated divergence times, reconstructed ancestral areas and modelled present and past species distributions based on climatic data. Duseniella diverged from its sister genera during the Late/Middle Miocene. Its ancestral area included southern Monte plus eastern and central Patagonia. A vicariant event separated Monte and Patagonian clades during the Plio-Pleistocene. This would have involved unfavourable climate, soil, elevation, volcanism and/or other geomorphological processes between 40 and 43.5°S, in the sourroundings of the Somuncura plateau. Each clade possesses its own haplotypes and nucleotypes. Two populations, one in southern Monte and the other in eastern Patagonia, contain the highest diversity and exclusive haplotypes, representing hypothetical ancestral refugia. Northern Monte and southern Patagonian populations show low to null genetic diversity, being the most recently colonized areas. Climatic models indicate that winter temperature influenced the distribution of Duseniella , with an increase in probability of occurrence during colder periods, thus enabling diversification during glacial episodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Prochelidella is the oldest known panchelid taxon. It is widely distributed in several Cretaceous basins throughout Patagonia, Argentina. It was previously known from three named species. A fourth species presented herein, Prochelidella buitreraensis sp. nov., preserves both cranial and postcranial material from the Candeleros Formation (La Buitrera Area) of Río Negro Province, Argentina. Features observed in the nuchal bone (i.e. wide, trapezoidal cervical vertebrae, shallow nuchal notch) allow us to assign this specimen to the genus Prochelidella. Several specific traits (i.e. a large open retropterygoideum foramen, and a strongly developed muscle attachment site on the basisphenoid) suggest that the form from the Candeleros Formation is a new species of the genus Prochelidella. A phylogenetic analysis that includes the three best-preserved species of Prochelidella recovers this taxon as monophyletic. The Cenomanian age of this new taxon allows us to compare the panchelid turtles from the Patagonian (Neuquen) and Australian (Surat) basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm whales (Physeteroidea) are the basal-most surviving lineage of odontocetes, represented today by just three highly specialized, deep-diving suction feeders. By contrast, extinct sperm whales were relatively diverse, reflecting a major Miocene diversification into various suction feeding and macroraptorial forms. The beginnings of this diversification, however, remain poorly understood. The Atlantic coast of South America provides a crucial window into early physeteroid evolution and has yielded some of the oldest species known from cranial material, Idiorophus patagonicus and Diaphorocetus poucheti – both of which are in need of re-description and phylogenetic reappraisal. Here, we re-examine Diaphorocetus in detail and, in light of its complex taxonomic history, declare it a nomen protectum. Phylogenetically, the species forms part of a polytomy including 'Aulophyseter' rionegresis and the two crown lineages (Physeteridae and Kogiidae) and demonstrates that facial asymmetry and a clearly defined supracranial basin have characterized this lineage for at least 20 Ma. With a total body length of 3.5–4 m, Diaphorocetus is one of the smallest physeteroids yet known. Its cranial morphology hints at an intermediate raptorial/suction feeding strategy and it has a moderately developed spermaceti organ and junk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small Neotropical tribe Liabeae (Compositae) is currently classified into four subtribes: Liabinae, Munnoziinae, Paranepheliinae, and Sinclairiinae. As currently accepted, Paranepheliinae includes seven genera, Chionoppapus, Erato, Microliabum, Paranephelius, Philoglossa, Pseudonoseris, and Stephanbeckia, distributed especially throughout the Andes from Venezuela and Colombia to Argentina. Our research focuses in the genus Microliabum, which inhabits extra‐Andean enviroments from Bolivia to central Argentina. The broad concept of Microliabum and its phylogenetic position within Paranepheliinae are controversial. Bayesian and maximum parsimony analyses of ribosomal nuclear ITS and plastid trnL‐F suggest that both subgenera described within Microliabum are monophyletic. However, Microliabum, without the subgenus Austroliabum, is close to Stephanbeckia. A statistical analysis (PCoA) supports the separation of the subgenera, and morphology mainly based on traits of the involucre and florets permits to establish new taxonomical circumscriptions. Thus, the reinstatement of Austroliabum, the more southern Liabean genus, is here proposed. The genus includes three endemic species from Sub‐Andean and Pampean Hills in central and northwestern Argentina. Austroliabum is characterized by white‐tomentose or woolly pubescence on stems and abaxial leaf surfaces, acrodromous leaf venation, campanulate involucres, coriaceous and adpressed phyllaries in usually five series, outer phyllaries shorter than the inner ones, style branches of disc florets shorter than the pubescent part on the shaft below the bifurcation point, style pubescence on the shaft below the bifurcation point of disc florets at least three times longer than the branches of the style, persistent 2‐seriate pappus with outer series of scales and inner series of barbellate bristles, and achenes pubescent on the ribs. In addition, a revision of Microliabum s.str., with three species, is carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) huacraensis infecting the catfish Trichomycterus spegazzinii from Escoipe River, Salta province (Argentina), is redescribed and genetically characterised for the first time, based on three genetic markers (nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA; cytochrome c oxidase subunit I [cox1] mtDNA). The phylogeny of Camallanidae was also discussed. Morphological evaluation of P. (S.) huacraensis using light and scanning electron microscopy revealed the previously undescribed features: location of deirids, accurate morphology of larvae (L1) and ovijector in females, as well as phasmids in males. Differences were found comparing the newly collected material and the type specimens, probably because the original description lacked detailing. Unfortunately, type specimens of P. (S.) huacraensis were no available for loan. The results of morphological and genetic analyses supported the validity of P. (S.) huacraensis. Inconsistencies regarding the taxonomic identification of species of Camallanidae in GenBank database were noted. Based on the current genetic database of Camallanidae, phylogenetic reconstructions using the 18S rRNA sequences were most consistent, due to the inclusion of higher number of taxa. Procamallanus (S.) huacraensis appeared as sister group of P. (S.) rarus, also isolated from a catfish in a neighbouring region. The order and habitat of hosts were also similar within some well-supported parasite lineages, but without common geographic origin. However, it is still premature to make definitive affirmations regarding the role of such features in the phylogenetic patterns of Camallanidae, given the scarcity of genetic data. The phylogenetic reconstructions also confirmed the artificiality of the morphology-based systematics of the family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three enigmatic lineages of the Polygalaceae endemic to the semi‐arid region of Argentina were sampled within the framework of a molecular phylogenetic study of its genera. The regions nrITS, matK, the trnL intron, the trnL‐trnF intergenic spacer, and rbcL were analyzed, and the history of some morphological characters was reconstructed in the family. Results of our phylogenetic analyses and morphological study support the recognition of three monotypic genera historically treated in the genera Bredemeyera and Polygala. A new genus, Rhamphopetalum, and a new combination, R. microphyllum, are proposed together with resurrection of Hualania and Monrosia. The emergence of two species (Bredemeyera colletioides, B. microphylla) as new genera resolves the polyphyletic status of Bredemeyera. Relationships and morphological characters among the genera of Polygalaceae are discussed. Provided here are photographic plates of Hualania colletioides, Monrosia pterolopha, and Rhamphopetalum microphyllum habits, with details of floral structures, a distribution map, typifications, and taxonomic keys for the tribes of Polygalaceae and genera within the tribe Polygaleae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seven species of southern South American frogs belonging to the genus Atelognathus occur in a variety of environments, such as the extra‐Andean Patagonian steppe, temperate Nothofagus forests, and ecotonal zones between them in Argentina and Chile. Most species are known only from their type localities and sometimes also nearby surrounding areas. The temperate forests and the ecotones are inhabited by A. nitoi, A. ceii, and A. salai. The taxonomic status of these species is evaluated herein using morphological characters and DNA sequences of cytochrome b, control region, and recombination‐activating protein 1 gene. In addition, we reevaluate the diagnostic characters proposed in the original description of each species. Contrary to what expected, we found very low genetic divergence among taxa. Both DNA sequence data and morphological characters did not support the current taxonomy arrangement within Atelognathus. We suggest the recognition of only A. nitoi inhabiting the temperate forests, with A. ceii and A. salai being junior synonyms. This species putatively expanded in a northwards direction across Patagonia, undergoing a recent demographic expansion from southern populations. We evaluated the taxonomic status of Atelognathus nitoi, A. ceii, A. salai, and one unnamed population from Lago General Vintter using morphological characters and DNA sequences of cyt b, CR, and RAG1. Both DNA sequence data and morphological characters did not support the current taxonomy of the Atelognathus species studied. We found a single species under a geographic expansion process from southern populations, and we suggest that A. ceii and A. salai are junior synonyms of Atelognathus nitoi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new hydrochoerine rodent, Cardiatherium calingastaense sp. nov. (Caviidae), is described based on the specimen INGEO-PV 87. It was recovered from the late Miocene Las Flores Formation, cropping out at the Puchuzum locality, San Juan Province, Argentina. The new species is based on a particular combination of characters, among which the following can be highlighted: p4 with internal fissures equally deep as in Cardiatherium paranense, secondary external fissure as in Cardiatherium patagonicum, and lacking the fifth internal fissure and supernumerary internal fissure, as in C. paranense; m3 with a conspicuous labial column in the posterior ramus of the second prism; very deep primary and secondary external fissures in upper cheek teeth, the former producing a labial strong step-shaped profile in M2; sagittal crest on the parietals; bullae small in ventral view; scars of the origin of the masseter medialis muscle with an anterior projection up to the level of the incisive foramen and the maxilla-premaxilla suture. The phylogenetic analysis supports the taxonomic proposal of creating a new species of Cardiatherium and shows C. calingastaense sp. nov. as the sister group of the other species of the genus. The lineage leading to the clade Cardiatherium + largest capybaras would have originated at least during the Chasicoan SALMA (early late Miocene). Cardiatherium calingastaense sp. nov. adds to the previous record of Cardiatherium chasicoense and Cardiatherium paranense in the late Miocene of San Juan and Mendoza provinces, respectively, thus increasing the diversity of capybaras in central-west Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caviidae is one of the groups of rodents with the greatest ecomorphological disparity, and with currently three known lineages: Caviinae (cuises), Dolichotinae (maras), and Hydrochoerinae (capybaras). Caviinae include small caviids represented by three extant genera (Microcavia, Cavia, and Galea) and three fossils forms (Dolicavia, Palaeocavia, and Neocavia). In Argentina, the fossil record of Caviinae is continuous and abundant since the late Miocene. Neocavia, specifically, is represented by different species recorded in the late Miocene-Pliocene. Here, we describe a new species of Neocavia from the late Miocene-early Pliocene of the Cerro Azul Formation (La Pampa Province, Argentina), and provide a re-description of already known species (Neocavia lozanoi and "Neocavia depressidens"). Also, we perform a more comprehensive review of the genus and include the Neocavia species in a phylogenetic context within Caviinae. We analyze the main patterns of the evolution of the tympanic bullae within Caviidae, and infer about a possible occasional fossorial habit of Neocavia. The morphological and phylogenetic analyses indicate that Neocavia is more closely related to Dolicavia and Microcavia than to the other Caviinae, and confirm the monophyly of the genus, with at least two clearly differentiable species. Since this study cannot confirm the systematic position and validity of "N. depressidens", we suggest not to use this taxon as a biostratigraphic indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paucituberculatan marsupials, particularly members of the family Palaeothentidae, were important components of South American mammal communities during much of the Cenozoic. However, after the late early Miocene, palaeothentid remains are rare in the fossil record, and the group is last recorded at late middle Miocene sites in Colombia, Bolivia and possibly Argentina. Here, we describe new specimens of palaeothentids from one of these late middle Miocene sites, Quebrada Honda, Bolivia, which include: (1) the first described lower dentitions ofAcdestis maddeni, which exhibit distinctive features such as a greatly elongated paracristid and a single-rooted m4; (2) the first described late middle Miocene palaeothentines, representing two new species ofPalaeothentes,P. serratussp. nov. andP. relictussp. nov., distinguished from other species ofPalaeothentesby the presence of an anterobasal cingulid and reduced anterior trigonid crest, among other features; and (3) remains of a third new species,Chimeralestes ambiguusgen. et sp. nov., distinguished from other palaeothentids by its combination of a labially positioned cristid obliqua, reduced m4, and sharply curved entocristid. Phylogenetic and palaeoecological analyses show that Quebrada Honda palaeothentids were taxonomically and morphologically diverse and likely spanned a wide range of ecological niches. Combined with the wide geographical distribution of palaeothentoids during the late middle Miocene, this suggests that the disappearance of these marsupials was preceded by an abrupt rather than gradual decline in taxonomic and ecological diversity as well as geographical range. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:DA7E10BA-7203-4F5A-A3AB-F0E7352B101C [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Mammalogy is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The re-study of species previously attributed to the genusNanorthisfrom the Tremadocian of north-western Argentina has led to the recognition of the new generaGondwanorthis(type speciesNanorthis calderensisBenedetto), to which the Iranian speciesNanorthis bastamensisGhobadi Pour, Kebriaee-Zadeh & Popov is also referred, andLampazarorthis(type speciesEoorthis bifurcataHarrington), which includesNanorthis brachymyariaBenedetto andLampazarorthis alatasp.nov.New extensive collections from the Cordillera Oriental support reassignment of the upper Tremadocian speciesNanorthis purmamarcaensisto the genusTarfaya. The speciesNanorthis carinataLaurie, from Tasmania, is reassigned here toTarfaya. According to the present taxonomic revision,Nanorthisis not cosmopolitan but is a pan-tropical genus, confined to Laurentia, the Laurentian-derived Precordillera terrane, and probably to Baltica, Siberia and Kazakhstanian terranes, whereasGondwanorthisandTarfayaare Gondwanan and peri-Gondwanan endemic taxa. Cladistic analysis of early orthoids, plectorthoids and dalmanelloids, including those recorded from mid to high latitude Gondwana successions, portraysGondwanorthisandLampazarorthisas a sister group basal to the tarfayid + heterorthid clade, whereas the South American and North AfricanIncorthisappears as a basal member of this clade. Morphological and stratigraphical evidence provided in this study, along with the results of the cladistic analysis, supports the view that heterorthids could have arisen from the tarfayids by the end of Floian. The enlargement and incipient bilobation of the cardinal process inTarfaya grandisleaves this species as a potential ancestor ofTissintia, which occurs in Darriwilian beds of the Central Andean Basin (Bolivia), but could have been present in this basin since the late Floian. We speculate that punctae in the Heterorthidae evolved independently from aTarfaya-like ancestor, and that the transition from an impunctate to a punctate shell may have occurred repeatedly through rhynchonelliform evolution. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:FFE818F6-FA92-4B26-AE76-077617C3D9EA [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phylogenetic analysis of all Eocene taxa assigned to Notopithecinae has been conducted, evaluating relationships amongst notopithecines, basal interatheriids and Interatheriinae. Other groups of native ungulates were also included. New dental and postcranial characters are considered with respect to previously published data; some characters are evaluated in notoungulates for the first time. Two different searches were performed under parsimony and equal weights. The inclusion of postcranial characters strongly influenced tree topology. The most significant result of the phylogenetic analysis was the identification of a novel monophyletic group, including species traditionally grouped as Patagonian Notopithecinae. The ‘notopithecid’ name is linked to the new clade defined as the clade stemming from the most recent common ancestor of the speciesNotopithecus adapinus, Antepithecus brachystephanus, Transpithecus obtentusandGuilielmoscottia plicifera. This phylogeny supports the main morphological differences of the new clade with respect to Interatheriinae Interatheriidae. In consequence, a diagnosis is proposed based on phylogenetic results, to which some other morphological characters are added. The Chilean basal interatheriidsJohnbellandIgnigenaas well asPunapithecus(Argentinean Puna) are excluded from the notopithecid clade, implying biostratigraphical and biogeographical changes. Notopithecid distribution now becomes restricted to the middle–late Eocene part of the Sarmiento Formation outcropping in central Chubut and north-east Santa Cruz provinces, Argentina. Other extra-Patagonian records of notopithecids are not confirmed. The resulting phylogeny resolves some relationships within basal interatheriids differently from previous analyses. Interatheriinae is not recovered as a monophyletic group, and Oldfieldthomasiidae and Henricosborniid are paraphyletic. The position of the ArchaeopithecidaeAcropithecus rigidusis controversial; it appears at the base of the Typotheria lineage or in the notopithecid clade, but systematic taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships amongst members of Archaeopithecidae remain to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The titanosaur sauropodBonatitan reigiis redescribed. The material collected, originally interpreted as pertaining to two different individuals, is reorganised in five individuals, and the original type specimen is separated into three different individuals. One of the braincases is designated as a new type specimen. Some materials are described by the first time (sacral ribs, distal caudal, chevrons, metacarpals, astragalus and metatarsals), others reinterpreted as different bones (‘ulna’ and ‘radius’). The diagnosis ofB. reigiis emended, removing some of the original characters (longitudinal groove located on the suture between the parietals that continues posteriorly over the supraoccipital to the foramen magnum) and adding some new (small paired pits on the frontals and posterior ridge of the metacarpal IV). The phylogenetic analysis does not supportB. reigias a member of the Saltasaurinae, but rather as a basal member of a broad clade of sauropods that in turn is recovered as the sister group of the Saltasauridae. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Vertebrate-bearing deposits of the Geste Formation (Late Eocene) crop out in the Puna of Catamarca and Salta, north-western Argentina, and have yielded specimens of a variety of clades. Among these, mammals have particular importance since their record shows some taxonomic peculiarities when compared with that of adjacent units. Here we describe new material that includes Notoungulata of generalized morphology, two morphotypes of basal typotherians, and two interatheriid taxa (includingAntofagastia turnerigen. et sp. nov.). These findings increase the variety of groups and provide new information about previously known taxa for this unit. Three phylogenetic analyses with different taxonomic contexts were performed. The first analysis includes the specimen referred to as ‘Typotheria indet. A’ in a data matrix of Paleogene notoungulates containing taxa traditionally referred as ‘Oldfieldthomasiidae’. The specimen is grouped together with three ‘oldfielthomasiids’ (Maxschlosseria,UltrapithecusandDolichostylodon) in the resulting tree. The second analysis involves specimens referred to as ‘Typotheria indet. B’, ‘archaeohyracids’, mesotheriids and hegetotheriids. The results show these fossils to be part of a basal polytomy of ‘early archaeohyracids’. Finally, a third analysis was conducted with Interatheriidae as the ingroup which recoveredAntofagastia turneriat the base of a node including extra-Patagonian forms of non-interatheriine interatheriids plusEopachyrucosand interatheriines. AlthoughAntofagastia,Punapithecusand Chilean extra-Patagonian forms share some features, such as small size, they do not comprise a distinct clade. The notoungulate record of the Geste Formation shows some singularities in the context of north-western Argentinean Paleogene units, the presence of interatheriids and ‘archaeohyracids’ being the most striking of these. The differences exhibited can be partially explained by temporal factors, since recent isotopic data points to a Late Eocene age for this unit. Biogeographical isolation represents another possible explanation, because these levels appear to be deposited in an isolated geographical and geological context, suggesting intermontane basin deposition or local wedge-top basins. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:690E818B-D2CD-4E93-9C34-8305E8D7F847 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report for the first time the occurrence of Obama marmorata in the Iberian Peninsula as an introduced species from the Neotropical Region. The species is also reported for the first time in Argentina. The identification was made on the basis of morphological evidence. The divergence levels of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene from Argentinean and Iberian samples were studied. The morphology of samples from the two regions was the same and matched the original description of the species. A DNA barcoding matrix was constructed using new sequences from O. marmorata and sequences of related species taken from GenBank. Among the Geoplanidae, interspecific divergence ranged between 3.3 and 14.4%, while intraspecific divergence percentages were 0-1.2%, signalling the presence of a DNA barcoding gap. All O. marmorata sequences, irrespective of their geographic origin, form a well supported clade with an intraspecific divergence of 0-0.9 (average = 0.4%). These results indicate the utility of DNA barcoding to discover allochthonous species in this group of organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new metatherian mammal,Fieratherium sorexgen. et sp. nov., found in western Argentina (Quebrada Fiera locality, southern Mendoza Province), in Late Oligocene deposits (Agua de la Piedra Formation, Deseadan age). The only known specimen is a juvenile with fragments of both dentaries, the right maxilla and a fragment of the left premaxilla with dentition. The loci and the number teeth preserved suggest a dental formula of I?3/i3, C1/c1, P3/p3, M?3/m?3.Fieratherium sorexhas a convergent shrew-like appearance and a unique combination of features among metatherians and other South American mammals of Palaeogene age, including the well-known faunas of Patagonia. An analysis of its phylogenetic affinities suggests thatFieratheriumis the sister-group of the Paucituberculata. As already described by other authors for several mammalian taxa, the mainly Patagonian South American Palaeogene fossil record offers little information to understanding the evolution of northern lineages.Fieratheriummay represent a taxon belonging to a lineage that had its origin in Neotropical regions, so far unrecorded in the southern region of South America. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:5F6D3A50-6345-4E66-BE3E-7FEF6CC66A9B [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new species of Oreobates from Jujuy, Argentina. The new species is clearly diagnosable from other species of Oreobates by a combination of morphological characters and support by molecular evidence (genetic distance and phylogenetic analysis). We also provide taxonomic comments about O. discoidalis and O. barituensis, emphasizing the need for an exhaustive revision of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sampling for chytrids in a variety of habitats has resulted in pure cultures that when analyzed have yielded hypotheses of relationships based on molecular and zoospore ultrastructural markers. To extend our understanding of diversity of Chytridiales in eastern Argentina and USA, we isolated and examined the morphology, ultrastructure and 28S and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequences of numerous chytrids from aquatic habitats from these two regions. Three family-level lineages (Chytridiaceae, Chytriomycetaceae, family incertae sedis) are represented in our molecular phylogeny, and three new genera (Avachytrium, Odontochytrium in Chytriomycetaceae, Delfinachytrium in family incertae sedis) are described. These findings of new genera and species emphasize the potential for discovery of additional diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

: Human metapneumovirus, which belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and has been classified as a member of the Pneumovirus genus, is genetically and clinically similar to other family members such as human respiratory syncytial virus. A total of 1146 nasopharyngeal aspirates from pediatric patients with moderate and severe acute lower respiratory tract infections, hospitalized at the Ricardo Gutierrez Childreńs Hospital (Buenos Aires, Argentina), were tested by real time RT-PCR for human metapneumovirus. Results showed that 168 (14.65%) were positive. Thirty-six of these 168 samples were randomly selected to characterize positive cases molecularly. The phylogenetic analysis of the sequences of the G and F genes showed that genotypes A2 and B2 cocirculated during 2009 and 2010 and that only genotype A2 circulated in 2011 in Argentina. Genotype A2 prevailed during the study period, a fact supported by a higher effective population size (Neτ) and higher diversity as compared to that of genotype B2 (10.9% (SE 1.3%) vs. 1.7% (SE 0.4%), respectively). The phylogeographic analysis of the G protein gene sequences showed that this virus has no geographical restrictions and can travel globally harbored in hosts. The selection pressure analysis of the F protein showed that although this protein has regions with polymorphisms, it has vast structural and functional constraints. In addition, the predicted B-linear epitopes and the sites recognized by previously described monoclonal antibodies were conserved in all Argentine sequences. This points out this protein as a potential candidate to be the target of future humanized antibodies or vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal sauropodomorphs from the Upper Triassic Los Colorados Formation of north-western Argentina have been known for several decades but most of them are only briefly described. New postrcanial remains of Coloradisaurus brevis, the most gracile sauropodomorph from this unit, are described here and evaluated within a phylogenetic context. These materials belong to a single individual and include elements of the vertebral column, pectoral girdle, incomplete forelimb, pelvis and hindlimb. These elements share an autapomorphic feature with the type specimen of Coloradisaurus brevis and provide novel and unique features that diagnose this taxon, such as pubic apron with semicircular cross-section and with a depression on its anterior surface, distal surface of the tibia deflected and facing posterodistally and well-developed pyramidal dorsal process of the posteromedial corner of the astragalus. Several postcranial characters of Coloradisaurus are exclusively shared with Lufengosaurus, from the Lower Jurassic of China. The inclusion of this information in two recent phylogenetic data sets depicts Coloradisaurus as closely related to Lufengosaurus and well nested within Plateosauria. Both data sets used indicate strong character support for the inclusion of Coloradisaurus and Lufengosaurus within Massospondylidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]