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Background: Black flies are among the most medically and veterinary important insects, as adult females of certain species are the sole vector of Onchocerca volvulus. Here, a new black fly species belonging to the subgenus Asiosimulium Takaoka & Choochote, 2005, is described and formally named as Simulium (Asiosimulium) kittipati sp. nov. Methods: Pupae and larvae of black flies were collected from available substrates in the stream from central Thailand. Pupae were individually separated in plastic tubes and maintained until adult flies emerged. The emerged adult flies associated with their pupal exuviae and cocoon as well as mature larvae preserved in 85% ethanol were used to describe the new species based on an integrated approach of morphological examination and molecular analysis of the COI gene. Results: The new species is characterized in the female by the medium-long sensory vesicle with a medium-sized opening apically, scutum with three faint longitudinal vittae, and the ellipsoidal spermatheca; in the male by the number of upper-eye (large) facets in 20 vertical columns and 21 horizontal rows, hind basitarsus slender, nearly parallel-sided, and median sclerite much wider and upturned apically; in the pupa by the head and thoracic integument densely covered with tiny tubercles, and the pupal gill of arborescent type with 28–30 filaments; and in the larva by the postgenal cleft deep, nearly reaching the posterior margin of the hypostoma, and dark pigmented sheath of the subesophageal ganglion. The DNA barcode successfully differentiated the new species from its congeners with an interspecific genetic divergence of 1.74–18.72%, confirming the morphological identification that the species is a new member of the subgenus Asiosimulium. Phylogenetic analyses also indicated that the new species is genetically closely related to Simulium phurueaense Tangkawanit, Wongpakam & Pramual, 2018, further supporting its morphological classification. Conclusions: This is the ninth species assigned to the subgenus Asiosimulium within the genus Simulium Latreille, 1802. Taxonomic notes and identification keys are given to distinguish this new species from the eight known species members in its same subgenus. Additionally, a distribution map of all species members in this subgenus occurring in Thailand and other countries is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pinna nobilis, a Mediterranean mollusc, has suffered population declines due to a massive mortality event associated with various factors including the parasite Haplosporidium pinnae. Some populations show resilience, possibly due to local environmental conditions. In this study, a molecular multiplex PCR method was developed using species‐specific primers targeting Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions of P. nobilis and P. rudis, allowing accurate species identification and hybrid detection. Samples from Mediterranean areas were analysed, including putative hybrids and individuals from five other bivalve species. DNA was isolated, ITS regions were amplified and sequenced, and phylogenetic analyses confirmed species differentiation and primer specificity. The multiplex‐PCR successfully identified P. nobilis, P. rudis, and their hybrids based on distinct amplicon patterns. This study highlights the value of molecular tools in species conservation, especially for monitoring and managing hybridization, supporting effective biodiversity conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Alpine musk deer, red serow, and white-lipped deer coexist in the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains of Tibet. We aimed to understand the mechanisms of their coexistence by studying their dietary preferences using DNA barcoding. All of the species exhibited broad dietary ranges with distinct food preferences. Furthermore, our findings revealed genus-level dietary specializations and the mechanisms facilitating their coexistence. The results of this study provide valuable insights for the development and implementation of effective conservation strategies and management measures in the local area. Wild ungulates play crucial roles in maintaining the structure and function of local ecosystems. The alpine musk deer (Moschus chrysogaste), white-lipped deer (Przewalskium albirostris), and red serow (Capricornis rubidus) are widely distributed throughout the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains of Tibet. However, research on the mechanisms underlying their coexistence in the same habitat remains lacking. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the coexistence of these species based on their dietary preferences through DNA barcoding using the fecal samples of these animals collected from the study area. These species consume a wide variety of food types. Alpine musk deer, white-lipped deer, and red serow consume plants belonging to 74 families and 114 genera, 62 families and 122 genera, and 63 families and 113 genera, respectively. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in the nutritional ecological niche among these species, primarily manifested in the differentiation of food types and selection of food at the genus level. Owing to differences in social behavior, body size, and habitat selection, these three species further expand their differentiation in resource selection, thereby making more efficient use of environmental resources. Our findings indicate these factors are the primary reasons for the stable coexistence of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxonomy underpins biological research because names are needed for comparative analysis, conservation status, and public communication. Despite this, many species remain undescribed and are therefore vulnerable and unprotected, particularly in the tropics. Neotropical Staphylinidae beetles (Coleoptera) are among the insect groups most likely to contain significant unknown and/or cryptic diversity. Here we used an integrative taxonomic framework to conduct a preliminary review of one particularly diverse genus of Staphylinidae (Anotylus) in Área de Conservaciόn Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica. We began by DNA barcoding novel collections and using Barcode Index Numbers (BINs) as an estimate of taxonomic diversity; we found 18 provisional new species. We augmented this genetic analysis with a morphometric analysis of adult morphological characters and found that we could differentiate most provisional species by external morphology as well as by elevation of collection. All the most abundant species could be differentiated from each other by differences in body size. One BIN included slight (~1%) genetic variation that corresponded with some morphological differentiation suggesting the existence of two species within a DNA BIN. Our results support the efficacy of DNA barcoding collections of tropical insects as an effective biodiversity estimator, one that can be used as a primer for integrative taxonomic studies using BINs as species hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastropods are ecologically significant and can be found in a wide range of habitats. Their taxonomy is complicated by their perplexing morphological characteristics. Therefore, a molecular based identification approach was used to confirm the variety of gastropod species commonly found on the coast during low tide at rocky shores. In the present investigation, nine species of gastropods were identified using the foresaid modern technique such as (Thalessa savignyi, Purpura persica, Turbo sparverius, Lunella coronata, Cellana karachiensis, Nerita albicilla, Nerita tristis, Ischnochiton australis, Astralium tentorriformis). T our knowledge among them three are news records (A. tentoriiformes, Ischnochiton australis and, Nerita tristis). The highest evolutionary divergence within the family of Nacellidae (0.917) followed by Turbinidae (0.169) and Neritidae (0.100) was noted. The results of this study will be helpful to taxonomists because meager attention was given to molecular- based identification from this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Black flies are among the most medically and veterinary important insects, as adult females of certain species are the sole vector of Onchocerca volvulus. Here, a new black fly species belonging to the subgenus Asiosimulium Takaoka & Choochote, 2005, is described and formally named as Simulium (Asiosimulium) kittipati sp. nov. Methods Pupae and larvae of black flies were collected from available substrates in the stream from central Thailand. Pupae were individually separated in plastic tubes and maintained until adult flies emerged. The emerged adult flies associated with their pupal exuviae and cocoon as well as mature larvae preserved in 85% ethanol were used to describe the new species based on an integrated approach of morphological examination and molecular analysis of the COI gene. Results The new species is characterized in the female by the medium-long sensory vesicle with a medium-sized opening apically, scutum with three faint longitudinal vittae, and the ellipsoidal spermatheca; in the male by the number of upper-eye (large) facets in 20 vertical columns and 21 horizontal rows, hind basitarsus slender, nearly parallel-sided, and median sclerite much wider and upturned apically; in the pupa by the head and thoracic integument densely covered with tiny tubercles, and the pupal gill of arborescent type with 28–30 filaments; and in the larva by the postgenal cleft deep, nearly reaching the posterior margin of the hypostoma, and dark pigmented sheath of the subesophageal ganglion. The DNA barcode successfully differentiated the new species from its congeners with an interspecific genetic divergence of 1.74–18.72%, confirming the morphological identification that the species is a new member of the subgenus Asiosimulium. Phylogenetic analyses also indicated that the new species is genetically closely related to Simulium phurueaense Tangkawanit, Wongpakam & Pramual, 2018, further supporting its morphological classification. Conclusions This is the ninth species assigned to the subgenus Asiosimulium within the genus Simulium Latreille, 1802. Taxonomic notes and identification keys are given to distinguish this new species from the eight known species members in its same subgenus. Additionally, a distribution map of all species members in this subgenus occurring in Thailand and other countries is provided. Graphical abstract

Astylus atromaculatus Blanchard, 1843 (Coleoptera: Melyridae) is a pollinivorous beetle native to southern South America, which has invaded South Africa more than a century ago. Adults and/or larvae may occasionally damage flowers, seeds, and seedlings of various crops. Severe cattle intoxication has also been reported in Argentina, Uruguay, and South Africa following consumption of alfalfa and forage grasses infested with A. atromaculatus. Despite its economic impact, essential genetic information is lacking for this species. The present paper provides the first DNA barcode reference sequences for A. atromaculatus based on the standard 5’ fragment (658 bp) of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene. The sequences obtained exhibited pairwise distances of ≤ 1.82% among them, and ~ 90% nucleotide identity with the homologous gene fragment in the morphologically similar Astylus variegatus Germar, 1824. The use of this molecular marker to explore the intraspecific variability of A. atromaculatus in central Argentina showed 21 different haplotypes, out of 32 individuals analyzed. A very high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.962 ± 0.019) and a moderate nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00778 ± 0.00079) were recorded. The haplotype network displayed a diffuse structure due to the abundance of singletons and possible missing haplotypes, with the most common haplotype comprising only 15.6% of the specimens collected. Future research with increased sampling size and geographic coverage will allow for a better understanding of the population genetics of this pest, and consequently, for developing efficient management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA barcodes, short and unique DNA sequences, play a crucial role in sample identification when processing many samples simultaneously, which helps reduce experimental costs. Nevertheless, the low quality of long-read sequencing makes it difficult to identify barcodes accurately, which poses significant challenges for the design of barcodes for large numbers of samples in a single sequencing run. Here, we present a comprehensive study of the generation of barcodes and develop a tool, PRO, that can be used for selecting optimal barcode sets and demultiplexing. We formulate the barcode design problem as a combinatorial problem and prove that finding the optimal largest barcode set in a given DNA sequence space in which all sequences have the same length is theoretically NP-complete. For practical applications, we developed the novel method PRO by introducing the probability divergence between two DNA sequences to expand the capacity of barcode kits while ensuring demultiplexing accuracy. Specifically, the maximum size of the barcode kits designed by PRO is 2,292, which keeps the length of barcodes the same as that of the official ones used by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT). We validated the performance of PRO on a simulated nanopore dataset with high error rates. The demultiplexing accuracy of PRO reached 98.29% for a barcode kit of size 2,922, 4.31% higher than that of Guppy, the official demultiplexing tool. When the size of the barcode kit generated by PRO is the same as the official size provided by ONT, both tools show superior and comparable demultiplexing accuracy.

INTRODUCTION. The creation of synthetic adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors during gene therapy development is a labour-intensive and expensive process. The optimal solution to minimise the time and costs associated with gene therapy development lies in the improvement of methods aimed at assessing AAV vector biodistribution and transduction efficiency in vivo.AIM. This study aimed to develop a new bioinformatics-based assessment method for synthetic AAV vector libraries to analyse AAV vector biodistribution and transduction efficiency in vivo.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The production of synthetic AAV vectors involved assigning AAV serotype-specific barcodes (12-nucleotide tags flanked at the 5' end with a sequence encoding the green fluorescent reporter protein). Plasmids carrying unique barcodes were propagated in competent Escherichia coli XL10-Gold cells and used to create two AAV libraries: L1 with a viral genome count of 1010 and L2 with a viral genome count of 1011. AAV production involved HEK293T cell transfection. L1 and L2 library vectors were administered to C57Bl/6N mice by intravenous injection. DNA and RNA were isolated from transduced organs for analysis by next-generation sequencing. The obtained data on DNA and RNA barcode quantities in different murine organs were analysed to assess the biodistribution and transduction efficiency of synthetic AAVs. Barcodes were identified by aligning them to the expected sequences and counted. The resulting values were normalised to the quantity of barcodes in the original library.RESULTS. Seven viral constructs based on different AAV serotypes were created as part of two AAV libraries. Six of the AAV serotypes were synthetic (sAAV1, sAAV2, sAAV3, sAAV4, sAAV5, and sAAV6). Sequencing of murine organ samples revealed significant quantities of DNA barcodes from both AAV libraries in all organs except the brain. For the L1 library, RNA barcodes were detected at a sufficient level in 4 organs, including the skeletal muscles, the heart, the liver, and the adrenal glands. For the L2 library, in addition to the listed organs, sufficient RNA-barcode levels were observed in the gonads and the kidneys. According to transduction efficiency analysis based on RNA barcode levels adjusted for DNA barcodes, sAAV5 was considered the most promising variant for gene therapy of liver-related diseases, whereas sAAV2 and sAAV6 were recognised as holding the most promise for adrenal diseases.CONCLUSIONS. The developed bioinformatics-based assessment method for synthetic AAV vector libraries can analyse AAV vector biodistribution and transduction efficiency in the body. The presented approach has the potential for selecting optimal AAV vectors for specific organs and tissues in further gene therapy development.

Sterculia monosperma fruit is the dried and mature seed of Sterculia monosperma, which belongs to genus Sterculia. In China, this plant is a widely distributed arbor with a long planting history in Lingnan area. It is mainly cultivated in Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Yunnan and Taiwan of China; it is also distributed in India, Vietnam and Indonesia, mostly cultivated artificially. S. monosperma fruit has many functions like warming the stomach and killing pests, but its name and characteristics are easily confused with other plants of genus Sterculia. However, the relevant research foundation is relatively weak. Pharmacognostical study can provide reference for its resource development and quality standard formulation. This study identifies the morphological and microscopic characteristics of S. monosperma fruit, as well as the microscopic identification of seed cross-section and powder. The DNA barcode sequences ITS2, psbA-trnH, matK and rbcL of S. monosperma were obtained through bidirectional sequencing, Kimura 2-Parameter (K2P) genetic distance was calculated, and the neighbor joining tree was established for clustering analysis. The results were as follows: (1) The morphological characteristics of S. monosperma fruit included dark red fruit shell and reddish brown or dark chestnut surface. It was hard in texture, with two thick yellowish endosperms inside. (2) The micro-morphological characteristics was that the exotesta was reddish brown, extremely thin, and brittle in texture; the mesotesta was black brown, thick, and hard in texture; the endotesta coat was light yellow and soft in texture. (3) The microscopic characteristics included the structure and arrangement of the exotesta stone cell, the grid cell structure of the mesotesta, the bead thickening of the cell wall of the endotesta cells, and the calcium oxalate cluster crystals. (4) Based on the ITS2 sequence, S. monosperma fruit could be effectively distinguished from other plants in genus Sterculia, while the matK sequence could effectively distinguish S. lanceolata from other plants in genus Sterculia. This study obtained the data on the morphological characteristics, micro-morphological characteristics and microscopic characteristics of S. monosperma fruit. Combined with the ITS2 barcode sequence, S. monosperma fruit can be effectively identified, which provides a scientific reference for the development of its germplasm resources and the formulation of relevant quality standards.

Abstract [Objective] The purpose of the research was to explore the evolutionary pattern of chloroplast genome in Elaeagnaceae, and to provide a basis for species identification and resource exploitation of Elaeagnaceae. [Methods] This study assembled four chloroplast genomes from Hippophae and Shepherdia, and compared the gene composition, repeats, and structural properties with the published Elaeagnaceae genomes. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on sequences from these chloroplast genomes. The promising sites for DNA barcoding of Elaeagnaceae were identified by examining the highly divergent regions. [Results] It was found that the chloroplast genomes of each genus of Elaeagnaceae exhibited a significant degree of similarity in terms of tetrad structure and gene number and organization. Moreover, it was found that both IR regions and repeats of Hippophae and Shepherdia species tended to expand and increase more than those of Elaeagnus species. The phylogenetic tree based on chloroplast genomes from eighteen species of Elaeagnaceae showed that all Elaeagnus plants were grouped into a branch that exhibited an early differentiation, and all plants from Hippophae and Shepherdia were classified into another branch with a most recent common ancestry. Three potential DNA barcoding regions were examined with the ycf1 gene had the best effect. [Conclusion] This study revealed that the chloroplast genome structure of the Elaeagnus family had a conservative pattern. The IR regions and repeated sequence of the chloroplast genome had been extended and increased with the evolution of Elaeagnaceae. The selected DNA barcode sequences could distinguish the relationships among the genera of the family Elaeagnus and among the species within the genus Elaeagnus.

Homalernis fluctuosa Suzuki & Jinbo, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, Tsushima Island, Amamiooshima Island, and Okinawajima Island, Japan. This is not only the first record of the genus Homalernis but also of the tribe Schoenotenini from warm temperate zones in the Palaearctic region. The association of males and females of the new species was confirmed based on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase submit 1 (COI). We discuss the taxonomic positions of two alleged Homalernis species from Malaysia and the taxonomic position of Homalernis within Schoenotenini.

Nepal holds a high ichthyofaunal diversity, nevertheless, the molecular study of Nepalese fish is still in its early stages. The first record of a cyprinid fish species the Garra kempi Hora, 1921 for Nepal was reported from eastern Nepal's Lohandra River. Both morphology and molecular data affirmed the existence of G. kempi in Nepal's aquatic system. This species was previously reported from China (Tibet) and northern India. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis and pairwise genetic distance based on Kimura 2 parameters using cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) segment sequences (665 bp) also confirmed the identity of the species as G. kempi. The COI sequences of specimens from Nepal formed a monophyletic clade with the sequence of G. kempi from northeastern India and the two contained a pairwise genetic distance of 1.8% only. The new record of G. kempi from Nepal warrants a detailed ichthyofaunal survey for documenting the fish diversity in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subfamily Molytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), being the second largest group within the family Curculionidae, exhibits a diverse range of hosts and poses a serious threat to agricultural and forestry industries. We used 1,290 cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcodes to assess the efficiency of COI barcodes in species differentiation and uncover cryptic species diversity within weevils of Molytinae. The average Kimura 2-parameter distances within species, genus, and subfamily were 2.90%, 11.0%, and 22.26%, respectively, indicating significant genetic differentiation at both levels. Moreover, there exists a considerable degree of overlap between intraspecific (0%–27.50%) and interspecific genetic distances (GDs; 0%–39.30%). The application of Automatic barcode gap discovery, Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning, Barcode Index Number, Poisson Tree Processes (PTP), Bayesian Poisson Tree Processes (bPTP), and jMOTU resulted in the identification of 279, 275, 494, 322, 320, and 279 molecular operational taxonomic units, respectively. The integration of 6 methods successfully delimited species of Molytinae in 86.6% of all examined morphospecies, surpassing a threshold value of 3% GD (73.0%). A total of 28 morphospecies exhibiting significant intraspecific divergences were assigned to multiple MOTUs, respectively, suggesting the presence of cryptic diversity or population divergence. The identification of cryptic species within certain morphological species in this study necessitates further investigation through comprehensive taxonomic practices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caridina boehmei is an ornamental shrimp native to Sulawesi that has been successfully cultured and marketed in Indonesia. However, molecular information about this shrimp is not yet available. This study aimed to characterize cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (CO1) and small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rDNA) genes. Shrimp samples were extracted, and DNA was amplified using CO1 and 18S rDNA primers. The sequencing results were then analyzed by the neighbor-joining method. The 654 bp partial coding sequence (cds) of the CO1 and 380 bp partial cds of 18S rDNA have been successfully amplified from genomic DNA. The CO1 sequencing produced fragments consisting of 25.84% adenine, 20.95% cytosine, 19.11% guanine, and 34.10% thymine. The 18S rDNA sequencing produced fragments consisting of 24.47% adenine, 26.05% cytosine, 28.16% guanine, and 21.32% thymine. Phylogenetic analysis based on the CO1 gene revealed that C. boehmei was grouped with C. variabilis (MK190014), C. brachydactyla (MK190011), and Caridina sp. (MK190012). Phylogenetic analysis based on the 18S rDNA gene revealed that C. boehmei was identical to Caridina sp. Suphan Buri-1 MF622000, C. serratirostris KP725708, C. multidentata JF346236, C. formosae GQ131924, and Caridina sp. Suphan Buri-2 MF622001. The lowest-highest pairwise distance based on CO1 and 18S rDNA was consecutively 0.0017-0.2247 (0.17-22.47%) and 0.0000-0.1218 (0-12.18%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Leptomias group represents one of the most diverse taxonomic group of weevils in the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau and its adjacent areas. Despite the potential of hidden diversity, relatively few comprehensive studies have been conducted on species diversity in this taxonomic group. In this study, we performed DNA barcoding analysis for species of the Leptomias group using a comprehensive DNA barcode dataset that included 476 sequences representing 54 morphospecies. Within the dataset, our laboratory contributed 474 sequences, and 390 sequences were newly generated for this study. The average Kimura 2‐parameter distances among morphospecies and genera were 0.76% and 19.15%, respectively. In 94.4% of the species, the minimum interspecific distances exceeded the maximum intraspecific distances, indicating the presence of barcode gaps in most species of Leptomias group. The application of Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery, Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning, Barcode Index Number, Bayesian Poisson tree processes, jMOTU, and Neighbor‐joining tree methods revealed 45, 45, 63, 54, and 55 distinct clusters representing single species, respectively. Additionally, a total of four morphospecies, Leptomias kangmarensis, L. midlineatus, L. siahus, and L. sp.9RL, were found to be assigned to multiple subclade each, indicating the geographical divergences and the presence of cryptic diversity. Our findings of this study demonstrate that Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau exhibits a higher species diversity of the Leptomias group, and it is imperative to investigate cryptic species within certain morphospecies using integrative taxonomic approaches in future studies. Moreover, the construction of a DNA barcode reference library presented herein establishes a robust foundational dataset to support forthcoming research on weevil taxonomy, phylogenetics, ecology, and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the species-diverse butterfly genus Polyommatus, speciation is often driven by rapid changes in chromosome number and structure, resulting in cryptic species. These cryptic species are morphologically similar, but usually can be recognized relatively easily using chromosomal markers. In this work, we show that similar chromosome numbers can independently evolve in different phylogenetic lineages, resulting in species that are difficult to distinguish using routine cytogenetic techniques. We also demonstrate that the combined analysis of chromosomes and mitochondrial DNA barcodes is a simple and effective tool for identifying such cryptic species. The detection of cryptic species in complexes that have undergone recent speciation is often difficult, since many standard nuclear markers have not yet accumulated differences between closely related taxa, and differences in mitochondrial markers can be leveled out due to mitochondrial introgressions. In these cases, the use of derived chromosomal characters such as non-ancestral chromosomal numbers and/or unusual karyotype features may be a solution to the species delimitation problem. However, non-ancestral but similar karyotypes may arise secondarily as a result of homoplastic evolution, and their interpretation as homologies may lead to incorrect taxonomic conclusions. In our study, we show that the combined use of mitochondrial DNA barcodes and karyotypes helps to solve this problem and identifies cryptic species in situations where each of these markers does not work individually. Using this approach, we show that the fauna of Armenia and adjacent Iran includes the following cryptic taxa of the Polyommatus ripartii species complex (haploid chromosome number, n in parentheses): P. ripartii paralcestis (n = 90), P. ripartii kalashiani, subsp. nov (n close to 90), P. emmeli, sp. nov. (n = 77–79), P. keleybaricus, sp. nov. (n = 86), P. demavendi belovi (n = 73–75), P. demavendi antonius, subsp. nov. (n = 71–73), P. admetus anatoliensis (n = 79) and P. eriwanensis (n = 29–34). Polyommatus admetus yeranyani is synonymized with P. admetus anatoliensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypostomus is the most species-rich genus within the family Loricariidae and is widely distributed throughout the Neotropical region. Nonetheless, the diversity and distribution of these species have still large knowledge gaps. This scenario is more significant in some regions, such as the northeast of Brazil. In this region, the first species of the genus, H. pusarum , was described in the Northeast Caatinga and Costal Drainages ecoregion. Six congeners were subsequently described in the same ecoregion, all sharing the same colour pattern making them difficult to distinguish. All of them are collectively referred to as the H. pusarum complex. The present work seeks to clarify the diversity that constitutes the H. pusarum complex through an integrative study using molecular and morphological data. The results indicate that H. carvalhoi , H. jaguribensis , H. nudiventris , H. papariae , and H. salgadae are all junior synonyms of H. pusarum. However, one of the morphotypes that occurs in the Parnaíba River is a new species that differs from the others by the absence of a developed medial buccal papilla and the presence of a pre-anal plate. The data provided here highlight the importance of integrative taxonomy for assessing diversity in complex and diverse groups in the Neotropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current knowledge of the global diversity of schizophoran flies, the megadiverse group that evolved during the episode of rapid dipteran radiations in the Early Cenozoic, is far from satisfactory. A significant part of this radiation is flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), which include about 3000 known species. Miltogramma Meigen, the largest genus of the flesh fly subfamily Miltogramminae, includes 119 known species with a peak of diversity in the Middle East and Central Asia. The taxonomy of the genus is acknowledged to be challenging, partly due to logistical issues associated with the deposition of type specimens in less accessible Russian institutions. Six new distinctive species of Miltogramma collected during recent expeditions to Iran and Uzbekistan are described using methods of integrative taxonomy: Miltogramma manouchehrii Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. , M. mikolajczyki Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. , M. rognesi Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. , M. soszynskii Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. , M. thompsoni Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. , and M. vervesi Szpila & Pape, sp. nov. Flies are characterized by secondary sexual dimorphism expressed in the form of species-specific chaetotaxy of the male fore tarsus, a character related to courtship behaviour. The reconnaissance surveys to both of the mentioned countries performed in the last decade brought information about a large number of potential new species of Miltogramma , despite the taxonomic work performed in this area in the past. Describing the majority of them requires extensive revisionary work, which involves accessing the type specimens and applying modern methods of species delimitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Chamaecyparis comprises seven species (C. formosensis, C. hodginsii, C. lawsoniana, C. nootkatensis (Callitropsis nootkatensis), C. obtusa, C. pisifera, and C. thyoides). Accurate species identification is necessary for proper use and economic value of wood. Species identification of woods is generally based on anatomical analysis; however, C. obtusa and C. pisifera wood have similar microscopic morphology, which makes species identification impossible. Therefore, the molecular identification of species in wood of the genus Chamaecyparis is required. In this study, six candidate DNA barcode genes (trnP-GGG, ycf1b, clpP, accD, ycf2, and rps16) in the chloroplast of Chamaecyparis were identified with nucleotide diversity values higher than the arbitrary value of 0.02. Each gene was evaluated for species identification using phylogenetic analysis by genes registered at NCBI (42 sequences each for trnP-GGG, ycf1b, clpP, accD, and ycf2, and 50 sequences for rps16). The genes trnP-GGG, clpP, and rps16 could not be distinguished between C. pisifera and C. formosensis. However, ycf1b, accD, and ycf2 could be distinguished between all Chamaecyparis species. These results suggest the use of the chloroplast genes ycf1b, accD, and ycf2 as DNA barcodes for species identification in Chamaecyparis, including C. obtusa and C. pisifera, based on the reported genetic information to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nepal holds a high ichthyofaunal diversity, nevertheless, the molecular study of Nepalese fish is still in its early stages. The first record of a cyprinid fish species the Garra kempi Hora, 1921 for Nepal was reported from eastern Nepal's Lohandra River. Both morphology and molecular data affirmed the existence of G. kempi in Nepal's aquatic system. This species was previously reported from China (Tibet) and northern India. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis and pairwise genetic distance based on Kimura 2 parameters using cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) segment sequences (665 bp) also confirmed the identity of the species as G. kempi. The COI sequences of specimens from Nepal formed a monophyletic clade with the sequence of G. kempi from northeastern India and the two contained a pairwise genetic distance of 1.8% only. The new record of G. kempi from Nepal warrants a detailed ichthyofaunal survey for documenting the fish diversity in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four species of spiders intercepted at domestic ports were studied in this paper. The CO Ⅰsequences of which were amplified by PCR and compared with the CO Ⅰsequences of five species recorded in GenBank. And the sequence characteristics were analyzed and the phylogenetic tree was constructed. The results showed that there were significant genetic differences among different species of Latrodectus, and the CO Ⅰsequence could be used as a DNA barcode for molecular identification of different species of Latrodectus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seafood mislabeling threatens customer rights and causes economic loss worldwide. The information on seafood misrepresentation in Thailand is still lacking, and the investigation and monitoring program must be well established. This study investigated the mislabeling status of imported seafood in Thailand using the DNA barcoding technique. A total of 45 imported seafood products from five distributors were included. Scientific, common, local, and market names of seafood samples were obtained from FAO and Fishbase databases. DNA was extracted, and PCR was performed using a universal primer targeting the COI gene. Species of each sample were identified with over 98% similarity based on COI sequence analysis. DNA sequence revealed 11 mislabeled samples. Among substituted species, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus and Thunnus maccoyii were found to be endangered species according to IUCN status. Products obtained from Brand-C showed the highest mislabeling rate (42.85%). The phylogenetic analysis adopted with the TIM2+F+I+G4 model showed the sequenced DNA similar to the NCBI database reference sequence. Overall, mislabeled products of imported seafood were found at the rate of 24.44%, suggesting that strict surveillance for seafood substitution should be implemented in Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sterculia monosperma fruit is the dried and mature seed of Sterculia monosperma, which belongs to genus Sterculia. In China, this plant is a widely distributed arbor with a long planting history in Lingnan area. It is mainly cultivated in Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Yunnan and Taiwan of China; it is also distributed in India, Vietnam and Indonesia, mostly cultivated artificially. S. monosperma fruit has many functions like warming the stomach and killing pests, but its name and characteristics are easily confused with other plants of genus Sterculia. However, the relevant research foundation is relatively weak. Pharmacognostical study can provide reference for its resource development and quality standard formulation. This study identifies the morphological and microscopic characteristics of S. monosperma fruit, as well as the microscopic identification of seed cross-section and powder. The DNA barcode sequences ITS2, psbA-trnH, matK and rbcL of S. monosperma were obtained through bidirectional sequencing, Kimura 2-Parameter(K2P)genetic distance was calculated, and the neighbor joining tree was established for clustering analysis. The results were as follows:(1)The morphological characteristics of S. monosperma fruit included dark red fruit shell and reddish brown or dark chestnut surface. It was hard in texture, with two thick yellowish endosperms inside.(2)The micro-morphological characteristics was that the exotesta was reddish brown, extremely thin, and brittle in texture; the mesotesta was black brown, thick, and hard in texture; the endotesta coat was light yellow and soft in texture.(3)The microscopic characteristics included the structure and arrangement of the exotesta stone cell, the grid cell structure of the mesotesta, the bead thickening of the cell wall of the endotesta cells, and the calcium oxalate cluster crystals.(4)Based on the ITS2 sequence, S. monosperma fruit could be effectively distinguished from other plants in genus Sterculia, while the matK sequence could effectively distinguish S. lanceolata from other plants in genus Sterculia. This study obtained the data on the morphological characteristics, micro-morphological characteristics and microscopic characteristics of S. monosperma fruit. Combined with the ITS2 barcode sequence, S. monosperma fruit can be effectively identified, which provides a scientific reference for the development of its germplasm resources and the formulation of relevant quality standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of plant-based therapies depends on precise botanical identification. However, tribal communities and practitioners sometimes misclassify medicinal plants due to a lack of scientific understanding. Plants cannot always be identified simply by morphology; the DNA-based approach uses a small segment of genomic DNA to authenticate medicinal plant species. Many tribal communities in Bangladesh have utilized plants for healing purposes for centuries. Therefore, this research used DNA sequences to identify Bangladeshi ethnomedicinal plants. DNA was extracted from the fresh leaves of eight important medicinal plants using the AddPrep Genomic DNA Extraction Kit and stored at − 20 °C. Three important loci (matK, rbcL and psbA-trnH) were amplified using PCR, and the sequences of these regions were analyzed for identification. rbcL and matK showed amplification success rates of 100% and 75% respectively, while for psbA-trnH the level was 50%, which subsequently led to the production of a total of 18 novel sequences. To validate the taxonomic identity of the samples, a MEGABLAST sequence comparison was performed, with nine species-level (50%) and nine genus-level (50%) identifications confirmed. The neighbor-joining method was used to construct four phylogenetic trees. The sequences obtained from the plant (leaf) samples and downloaded sequences from NCBI were employed, with the topologies of the trees being identical. Our findings demonstrate that partial genome sequencing is a viable way of identifying medicinal plants and closely related species utilizing the three plastid loci rbcL, matK and psbA-trnH, which are efficient and feasible DNA markers for plant authenticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The predaceous water beetle Menthles indicus is reported after a lapse of about five decades from India. The molecular phylogeny of the species has been described using CO1 gene sequence, which shows the species closely related to Methles cribratellus, by a genetic distance of 8–9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evergreen tree species Aquilaria sinensis holds significant economic importance due to its specific medicinal values and increasing market demand. However, the unrestricted illegal exploitation of its wild population poses a threat to its survival. This study aims to contribute to the conservation efforts of A. sinensis by constructing a library database of DNA barcodes, including two chloroplast genes (psbA-trnH and matK) and two nuclear genes (ITS and ITS2). Additionally, the genetic diversity and structure were estimated using inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR) markers. Four barcodes of 57 collections gained 194 sequences, and 1371 polymorphic bands (98.63%) were observed using DNA ISSR fingerprinting. The Nei's gene diversity (H) of A. sinensis at the species level is 0.2132, while the Shannon information index (I) is 0.3128. The analysis of molecular variance revealed a large significant proportion of total genetic variations and differentiation among populations (Gst = 0.4219), despite a relatively gene flow (Nm = 0.6853) among populations, which were divided into two groups by cluster analysis. There was a close genetic relationship among populations with distances of 0.0845 to 0.5555. This study provides evidence of the efficacy and dependability of establishing a DNA barcode database and using ISSR markers to assess the extent of genetic diversity A. sinensis. Preserving the genetic resources through the conservation of existing populations offers a valuable proposition. The effective utilization of these resources will be further deliberated in subsequent breeding endeavors, with the potential to breed agarwood commercial lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Acrossus Mulsant, 1842, Acrossus baei sp. nov. from South Korea, is described and illustrated on the basis of morphology and mitochondrial COI sequences. The species was compared with four related species; Acrossus atratus (Waterhouse, 1875), A. humerospinosus (Petrovitz, 1958), A. luridus (Fabricius, 1775), and A. superatratus (Nomura & Nakane, 1951). The taxonomic status and diagnostic characters of the new species are discussed. A key to species of the genus Acrossus in the Korean Peninsula is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To update the record of mosquito diversity in the state of Morelos, Mexico, mosquito collections were conducted in both physiographical regions of Morelos: the Neo-volcanic Axis and the South Mountain Range. Immature stages were collected from aquatic habitats, while adult mosquitoes were collected using CDC light traps, Shannon traps and approaching/landing on the collecting personnel. All specimens were identified using taxonomic keys and the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (COI). Following Mexico State, this is the second study of mosquito taxonomy of a complete Mexican state using COI barcoding. In Morelos, a total of 58 species of mosquito occurs, of which we report 12 for first time (Aedes vexans, Ae. euplocamus, Ae. vargasi, Psorophora cilipes, Ps. lineata, Culex restrictor, Cx. interrogator, Cx. nigripalpus, Cx. tarsalis, Cx. sandrae, Cx. lactator and Toxorhynchites moctezuma). Morelos now ranks sixth in mosquito diversity among Mexican states. Phylogenetic trees were constructed for 32 species, including Ae. shannoni, which is a new record for GenBank databases. Additionally, we report COI barcode sequences of Culiseta dugesi Dyar and Knab, which is resurrected from the synonymy of Cs. particeps (Adams). Fourth-instar larvae and adult females of Cs. dugesi were redescribed. This brings the number of mosquito species in Mexico to 248. Ecological and distributional notes for the new records, the medical importance of mosquito species in Morelos, and an identification key for larvae and females of the known Culiseta species occurring in Mexico are also included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synanthropic silverfish are the best-known and most widely distributed insects of the order Zygentoma. However, there is a great gap in the knowledge and confusion about the geographic distribution and the diagnostic characteristics that allow their identification. In this work, we provide an exhaustive and deep analysis of the most common 9 synanthropic silverfish of the world, combining previously published and newly derived morphological and molecular data. Updated descriptions of Ctenolepisma calvum (Ritter, 1910) and Ctenolepisma (Sceletolepisma) villosum (Fabricius, 1775) are included, and morphological remarks, illustrations, and photographs of the remaining synanthropic species are provided to clarify their diagnosis and differentiation among them and from other free-living species. In addition, Ctenolepisma targionii (Grassi and Rovelli, 1889) is synonymized with C. villosum. A molecular phylogeny is presented based on the COI sequences of all the synanthropic species deposited in BOLD and GenBank, with 15 new sequences provided by this study. This has allowed us to detect and correct a series of identification errors based on the lack of morphological knowledge of several species. Moreover, 2 different lineages of Ctenolepisma longicaudatum Escherich, 1905 have also been detected. To help future studies, we also provide a taxonomic interpretation guide for the most important diagnostic characters of the order Zygentoma, as well as an identification key for all the Synanthropic studied species. Finally, an approximation of the global distribution of synanthropic silverfish is discussed. Several new records indicate that the expansion of these species, generally associated with the transport of goods and people, is still far from over. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we describe and illustrate Indopria angulata Theertha and Rajmohana gen. et sp. n. (Hymenoptera: Diapriidae) from India, along with its mt COI DNA barcode data. The genus is treated as a member of the tribe Diapriini (subfamily: Diapriinae). The new genus is proposed based on an Integrative Taxonomic Approach (ITA) with the unique combination of the morphological data and high genetic divergence for the mt COI barcode within the tribe Diapriini. Morphologically, a semi-abrupt 3-segmented clava, the presence of a median incision on the anterior syntergite, paddle-shaped forewings with angular frenal gutters, elongated marginal fringes, submarginal vein closely approximated to forewing fore margin and marginal venation distinctly surpassing basal third of wing length, together distinguish Indopria gen. n. from related genera. The specialized wing morphology can be interpreted as an adaptation to inhabit aquatic environments. Initial studies suggest the distribution of the species in the aquatic environs of east India and Andaman Islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing concern about migratory birds potentially spreading ticks due to global warming has become a significant issue. The city of Nantong in this study is situated along the East Asia-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), with numerous wetlands serving as roosting sites for migratory birds. We conducted an investigation of hard ticks and determined the phylogenetic characteristics of tick species in this city. We utilized three different genes for our study: the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene, the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2), and the mitochondrial small subunit rRNA (12 S rRNA) gene. The predominant tick species were Haemaphysalis flava (H. flava) and Haemaphysalis longicornis (H. longicornis). Additionally, specimens of Haemaphysalis campanulata (H. campanulata) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (R. sanguineus) were collected. The H. flava specimens in this study showed a close genetic relationship with those from inland provinces of China, as well as South Korea and Japan. Furthermore, samples of H. longicornis exhibited a close genetic relationship with those from South Korea, Japan, Australia, and the USA, as well as specific provinces in China. Furthermore, R. sanguineus specimens captured in Nantong showed genetic similarities with specimens from Egypt, Nigeria, and Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The InBIO Barcoding Initiative (IBI) Orthoptera dataset contains records of 420 specimens covering all the eleven Orthoptera families occurring in Portugal. Specimens were collected in continental Portugal from 2005 to 2021 and were morphologically identified to species level by taxonomists. A total of 119 species were identified corresponding to about 77% of all the orthopteran species known from continental Portugal. New information: DNA barcodes of 54 taxa were made public for the first time at the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). Furthermore, the submitted sequences were found to cluster in 129 BINs (Barcode Index Numbers), 35 of which were new additions to the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). All specimens have their DNA barcodes publicly accessible through BOLD online database. Stenobothrus lineatus is recorded for the first time for continental Portugal. This dataset greatly increases the knowledge on the DNA barcodes and distribution of Orthoptera from Portugal. All DNA extractions and most specimens are deposited in the IBI collection at CIBIO, Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The InBIO Barcoding Initiative (IBI) Dataset - DS-IBILP08 contains records of 2350 specimens of moths (Lepidoptera species that do not belong to the superfamily Papilionoidea). All specimens have been morphologically identified to species or subspecies level and represent 1158 species in total. The species of this dataset correspond to about 42% of mainland Portuguese Lepidoptera species. All specimens were collected in mainland Portugal between 2001 and 2022. All DNA extracts and over 96% of the specimens are deposited in the IBI collection at CIBIO, Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources. New information: The authors enabled "The InBIO Barcoding Initiative Database: DNA barcodes of Portuguese moths" in order to release the majority of data of DNA barcodes of Portuguese moths within the InBIO Barcoding Initiative. This dataset increases the knowledge on the DNA barcodes of 1158 species from Portugal belonging to 51 families. There is an increase in DNA barcodes of 205% in Portuguese specimens publicly available. The dataset includes 61 new Barcode Index Numbers. All specimens have their DNA barcodes publicly accessible through BOLD online database and the distribution data can be accessed through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Species of the cleptoparasitic bee genus Triepeolus Robertson, 1901 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Nomadinae) of which the female has a trapezoidal or triangular pseudopygidial area with bright, reflective setae and a concave apical margin are revised. This entirely New World group includes the widely known species T. simplex Robertson, 1903 and is thus termed the simplex species group. A total of 18 species in the T. simplex group are recognized as valid, of which seven are newly named and described—T. apache sp. nov., T. eumeniformis sp. nov., T. hirsutus sp. nov., T. oblongimacula sp. nov., T. parahirsutus sp. nov., T. paucipunctatus sp. nov., and T. shoshone sp. nov., all from North America. Eleven redundant names are newly synonymized under three valid ones as follows: Epeolus rugulosus Cockerell, 1917 syn. nov., E. metatarsalis Friese, 1921 syn. nov., and T. bilunatus Cockerell, 1949 syn. nov. under Triepeolus mexicanus (Cresson, 1878); E. lectiformis Cockerell, 1925 syn. nov., T. lusor Cockerell, 1925 syn. nov., and T. junctus Mitchell, 1962 syn. nov. under T. rhododontus Cockerell, 1921; and E. permixtus Cockerell, 1923 syn. nov., T. brunnescens Cockerell & Sandhouse, 1924 syn. nov., T. pacis Cockerell, 1925 syn. nov., E. sarothrinus Cockerell, 1929 syn. nov., and E. sarothrinus var. confluens Cockerell, 1929 syn. nov. under T. segregatus (Cockerell, 1900). Species limits were established using an integrative systematics approach, namely considering morphological and biogeographic evidence as well as DNA barcode data. Taxon concepts are revised for all species in the T. simplex group, with morphological diagnoses and keys presented to enable their identification. Known information on the ranges and ecology of the treated species is summarized.

Abstract The Pinna nobilis, a Mediterranean mollusc, has suffered population declines due to a massive mortality event associated with various factors including the parasite Haplosporidium pinnae. Some populations show resilience, possibly due to local environmental conditions. In this study, a molecular multiplex PCR method was developed using species‐specific primers targeting Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions of P. nobilis and P. rudis, allowing accurate species identification and hybrid detection. Samples from Mediterranean areas were analysed, including putative hybrids and individuals from five other bivalve species. DNA was isolated, ITS regions were amplified and sequenced, and phylogenetic analyses confirmed species differentiation and primer specificity. The multiplex‐PCR successfully identified P. nobilis, P. rudis, and their hybrids based on distinct amplicon patterns. This study highlights the value of molecular tools in species conservation, especially for monitoring and managing hybridization, supporting effective biodiversity conservation strategies.

Chrysopidae are a family of Neuroptera of significant importance in biocontrol against agricultural pests because of their predatory larvae. Currently, the taxonomy of Chrysopidae lacks a comprehensive revision, which impedes the exploration of species diversity as well as the selection and the conservation of green lacewings as biocontrol agents. We have established a DNA barcode reference library of the Chinese green lacewings based on an approximately complete sampling (95.63%) in 25 of the 34 provincial regions in China, comprising 1 119 barcodes of 25 genera and 197 species (representing 85% genera and 43.62% species from China). Combining other 1 049 high quality green lacewing DNA barcodes, we first inferred the optimal threshold of interspecific genetic divergence (1.87%) for successful species identification in multiple simulated scenarios based on present data. We further inferred the threshold of genetic divergence (7.77%) among genera with biocontrol significance. The inference and performance of the threshold appears to be mainly associated with the completeness of sampling, the proportion of closely related species, and the analytical approaches. Six new combinations, Apertochrysa platypa (Yang & Yang, 1991) comb. nov., Apertochrysa shennongana (Yang & Wang, 1990) comb. nov., Apertochrysa pictifacialis (Yang, 1988) comb. nov., Apertochrysa helana (Yang, 1993) comb. nov., Plesiochrysa rosulata (Yang & Yang, 2002) comb. nov., and Signochrysa hainana (Yang & Yang, 1991), are proposed according to integrative species delimitation. Our library and optimal threshold will effectively facilitate the exploration of species diversity of green lacewings. Our study also provides a methodological reference in molecular delimitation of other insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological and molecular data support the description of a new Aequidens species from the upper rio Correntes, considered herein as endemic to the upper rio Paraguai basin in the Cerrado biome in Brazil. The new species is distinguished from all congeners, except from A. plagiozonatus by having anteriorly oblique dark brown flank bars vs. vertical flank bars, and is additionally distinguished from some congeners by showing a discontinuous lateral band and presence of a dark cheek spot. The new species differs from Aequidens plagiozonatus by having the profile of the dorsal part of head almost straight (in lateral view), with a conspicuous concavity at the interorbital, and by the longer length of upper and lower jaws. Furthermore, delimitation analyses based on mitochondrial data provide additional support for the validity of the species. Our study data also revealed the occurrence, and consequently the first record, of A. plagiozonatus in the upper rio Araguaia basin, which was most likely driven by headwater capture events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presently, Myloplus schomburgkii is the most easily recognized species among the serrasalmids by having a vertical black bar in the middle of the body. However, through a broad taxonomic review, including DNA barcoding and morphological analyses, we were able to identify and describe two new species that also share a dark vertical bar on the flank. In addition, we redescribe M. schomburgkii, designating a neotype and restricting the type-locality to rio Negro in Barcelos, Amazonas State, Brazil. The three lineages of black-barred pacus present high molecular divergences (7.9-11%) and can be distinguished by differences in the shape of the vertical bar, shape of females' anal fin, number of total vertebrae, number of total branched dorsal-fin rays, among other characters. Although the existence of these two new species has been hidden due to many morphological similarities, mainly the presence of the black bar, the three lineages do not compose a monophyletic group, with one of the new species being recovered as sister to Ossubtus xinguense. This result reinforces the necessity of the redefinition of the Myleini genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The previously unknown female of Psilochorus inyoSlowik, 2009 is described and illustrated. Determination of the species was validated using DNA barcoding as well as collection occurrences. Collection data for females collected in northeastern California and information on the species habitat and distribution are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poolea gen. nov. is described for two noctuid species from southwestern United States: Poolea grandimacula Barnes & McDunnough, comb. nov., previously in Oxycnemis Grote, and Poolea psaphidoides sp. nov. Poolea is compared to Oxycnemis (Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini, Triocnemidina) and is retained in the same subtribe. Adult moths and male and female genitalia of Poolea species are illustrated along with those of Oxycnemis advena Grote, the genus type species. Pertinent recent taxonomic changes to Amphipyrinae classification are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species of the long-legged sac spider genus Cheiracanthium C. L. Koch, 1839 collected from China are diagnosed and described as new to science: Cheiracanthium bannaensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan Province and C. bifurcatum sp. nov. (♂♀) from Xinjiang Uyger Autonomous Region. Photos of the habitus and copulatory organs are given. In addition, DNA barcode information of the two new species is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last 5 decades, paleontological research has exploded where fossils have enabled robust dating of rocks, improved understanding of origination/extinction rates or mass extinction events, biogeography, adaptive strategies, and many more. New molecular technologies have enabled intensive analyses of vertebrates and invertebrates, plant fossils, fossilized microbes, trace fossils, and fossil molecules, alike. Paleontological research has become interdisciplinary with inputs from geology, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and archaeology. Herein, we review the principles of promising molecular technologies and explore their applications and limitations vis-à-vis paleontological research. This review will attempt to provide a roadmap that can be used for future research directions. Advanced chemical imaging provides the ability to identify and quantify chemical characteristics to evaluate taphonomic damage, original biological structures, or fossils microbes. Molecular methods (e.g., molecular clock, DNA barcode, racemization dating, and biomarkers) offer a unique source of information and provide robust clues into the co-evolution of life in modern and past environments. Two main limitations are noted and include an exceptional preservation of the organic material, which is not always the case, and the complexity and cost of the instruments involved in the analyses. These difficulties are limiting the factual applications in paleontological analysis. Although very little research has been carried out on the aforementioned methods, they however, provide improved answers to highly debated and unsolved biological and climatic issues and a window to better understanding the origin of life. Biomarker proxies will be further developed and refined to answer emerging questions in the Quaternary Period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parvorder Rhynchopthirina contains three currently recognised species of lice that parasitize elephants (both African savanna elephant Loxodonta africana and Asian elephant Elephas maximus), desert warthogs (Phacochoerus aethiopicus) and Red River hogs (Potamochoerus porcus), respectively. The Asian elephant lice and the African savanna elephant lice are currently treated as the same species, Haematomyzus elephantis (Piaget, 1869), based on morphology despite the fact that their hosts diverged 8.4 million years ago. In the current study, we sequenced 23 mitochondrial (mt) genes of African savanna elephant lice collected in South Africa and analysed the sequence divergence between African savanna elephant lice and previously sequenced Asian elephant lice. Sequence comparisons revealed >23% divergence for the 23 mt genes as a whole and ~17% divergence for cox1 gene between African savanna and Asian elephant lice, which were far higher than the divergence expected within a species. Furthermore, the mt gene sequence divergences between these lice are 3.76–4.6 times higher than that between their hosts, the African savanna and Asian elephants, which are expected for the co‐divergence and co‐evolution between lice and their elephant hosts. We conclude that (1) H. elephantis (Piaget, 1869) contains cryptic species and (2) African savanna and Asian elephant lice are different species genetically that may have co‐diverged and co‐evolved with their hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]