Tag: conservation

Pensoft Celebrates International Tea Day with Fascinating Discoveries in Camellia

Camellia species are famous for their tea properties, providing the leaf buds and young branches used to manufacture black, green, and oolong tea.

At Pensoft Publishers, we are proud to support the open-access dissemination of botanical knowledge through our journal PhytoKeys. On International Tea Day, we invite you to spill the tea on the captivating world of the genus Camellia. While most people recognise these plants as the source of their morning brew, the genus is incredibly diverse and economically significant. 

Camellia species are famous for their tea properties, providing the leaf buds and young branches used to manufacture black, green, and oolong tea. Beyond the teapot, these evergreen shrubs and trees are valued for their oil-producing seeds and their stunning ornamental flowers in horticulture. Despite their global fame, we are still discovering new members of this family, often in the remote forests of East and Southeast Asia.

One of the most dramatic stories recently published in PhytoKeys concerns Camellia hekouensis, a tree native to Hekou in Yunnan, China. For a time, the botanical community feared the species was lost forever after the last known living tree died at the end of 2024 due to bark destruction. 

However, a dedicated effort by the staff of the Dawei Mountain National Nature Reserve saved the species from the brink. They successfully protected 11 wild trees and propagated 32 others ex-situ. This species is particularly interesting because its chemical profile challenged previous scientific claims. While earlier researchers suggested it lacked certain purine alkaloids, new analysis shows the leaves actually contain 1.18 mg/g of theobromine.

Camellia hekouensis. Image credit: Dongwei Zhao et al.

Read more: Zhao D, Zhang G, Yang S (2025) Phylogenetic position, supplementary description and phytochemical analysis of Camellia hekouensis (Theaceae), a critically endangered tree native to Hekou, Yunnan, China. PhytoKeys 256: 185-195. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.256.149481 

Further research in Yunnan has revealed another unique relative of the common tea plant named Camellia yangii. Discovered in the forests of Malipo County, this species is a true member of the tea section, yet it stands out for being remarkably hairy. It bears a red or purplish red terminal bud that is densely pubescent, making it a rare and visually striking germplasm resource. 

Lead researcher Dongwei Zhao of Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, found that while most Camellia species have five sepals, Camellia yangii typically bears only three. It also follows its own schedule, flowering about a month later than other tea plants in the vicinity. This late flowering phase is a natural barrier that prevents it from hybridising with other species, keeping its genetic line distinct. With fewer than ten individuals known in the wild, its discovery is a call to action for urgent protection.

Camellia yangii. Image credit: Dongwei Zhao.

Read more: Zhao D (2025) Camellia yangii (Theaceae), a new species of tea plants (Camellia section Thea). PhytoKeys 257: 247-256. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.257.152000 

Botanical science sometimes involves correcting the records of the past, as seen in the reinstatement of Camellia angustifolia. This species from Guangxi, China, was originally described in 1981 but was later dismissed as a mere synonym of another variety in 1992. 

Recent field investigations proved that this was a mistake. Researchers from the Guangxi Research Institute of Tea Science discovered that the original type specimen was actually a misidentified bellflower from a completely different family. Once the correct specimens were examined, the differences became clear – unlike its shrubby relatives that grow only a few meters tall, Camellia angustifolia is a majestic tree that can reach heights of 20 meters. 

Camellia angustifolia. Image credit: Shixiong Yang.

Read more: Deng H, Liao X, Yu X, Liu Z, Yang S (2025) Reinstatement of the independent specific status of Camellia angustifolia, a tea plant (Camellia sect. Thea, Theaceae) from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys 267: 1-8. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.267.174664 

Our journey through recent tea-related discoveries concludes in the striking Danxia landscape of Guangdong Province. Here, researchers identified Camellia shangshii, a new species endemic to the red sandstone formations of Danxiashan Mountain. This species bears smaller leaves and flowers than its closest relatives. One of its most defining features is that its white petals are fused together at the base for several millimeters. 

This tree notably thrives in a unique microclimate where specialised soils and environmental contrasts drive the evolution of distinct species. It is named in honour of Dr. Shangshi Wu, a scientist who pioneered the study of these geological landscapes.

Camellia shangshii. Image credit: Shiyang Wang, Yinyu Wu and Xiaowei Yi.

Read more: Wang S, Liu H, Tan S, Shen L, Chen Z, Chen F, Fan Q (2026) Camellia shangshii (Theaceae), a new species endemic to danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China. PhytoKeys 270: 13-23. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.270.172597 

As we celebrate International Tea Day, these discoveries remind us that our knowledge of the natural world is still growing. Every new species found and every historical error improves our understanding of the biological heritage of our favorite beverages. At Pensoft, we will never stop be-leafing in the power of new species to inspire conservation and science!

Make sure to follow PhytoKeys on Facebook and Bluesky for more interesting articles on plants.

Celebrating Deep Day with Incredible Deep-Sea Research

Protecting the deep sea, the largest and least explored habitat on Earth, requires collaborative effort.

May 7th marks Deep Day, a global day of awareness and action dedicated to the deep sea. Founded by the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, it aims to raise awareness of the deep sea’s immense ecological importance and call for its protection against threats like deep-sea mining and destructive fishing.

To celebrate the wonders of our oceans and raise awareness of the incredible biodiversity of the deep sea, we at Pensoft Publishers would like to highlight some of the remarkable marine studies that have recently been published in our scientific journals.

A Global Collaboration to Uncover Deep-Sea Amphipods

24 deep-sea amphipods
The 24 newly described deep-sea amphipod species. Image credit to: Eleanor Frost, National Oceanography Centre

Demonstrating the power of global teamwork, an international group of experts recently discovered 24 new deep-sea amphipod species in the central Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). Researchers from institutions worldwide, including the University of Lodz and the National Oceanography Centre, came together for a coordinated taxonomy workshop to achieve this. Their work revealed a completely new evolutionary branch with the discovery of a new superfamily, Mirabestioidea.

Crucially, their findings form part of the International Seabed Authority’s Sustainable Seabed Knowledge Initiative (SSKI) and its ‘One Thousand Reasons’ project, which aims to formally describe 1,000 new species by the end of the decade.

Highlighting the importance of this joint effort, Dr. Anna Jażdżewska from the University of Lodz shared:

This was a truly collaborative process that allowed us to achieve the ambitious goal of describing more than 20 species new to science within a year – something that would not have been possible if each of us worked independently. The team’s findings provide information that is crucial for future conservation and policy decisions.

Learn more in the Special Issue: New deep-sea Amphipoda from Clarion-Clipperton Zone

What lives 10 km below the surface?

@pensoft.publishers

😯Fascinating new #study recorded 108 morphotaxa from 4,500m down to the #hadal depths of 9,775m, revealing the hidden life of the NW Pacific trenches. 🎥They analyzed 460 hours of video from landers & submersibles across the Japan, Ryukyu, and Izu-Ogasawara trenches. 👇Full study here: https://doi.org/10.3897 /BDJ.14.e182172 📗You can read all about it on Pensoft’s blog 👇 https://blog.pensoft.net/2026/04/06/what-lives-10-km-below-the-surface-a-new-look-at-life-in-japans-deepest-ocean-trenches/ Research center: Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre. Main funders of the expedition: Inkfish, Caladan Oceanic #deepsea #sciencetok #research

♬ THE MOON – Camargguinho
Photo and video credit to Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre, Inkfish, Caladan Oceanic, Jamieson et al., 2026

Another recent expedition provided a profound look at life up to nearly 10 kilometers below the surface in the Japan, Ryukyu, and Izu-Ogasawara trenches, cataloging at least 108 distinct organism groups. The research captured rare footage of species interactions at extreme depths – and one baffling, unidentified animal that has left taxonomists worldwide perplexed.

Animalia incerta sedis
The unknown organism or Animalia incerta sedis. Credit to Jamieson et al., 2026, o Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre, Inkfish and Caladan Oceanic.

Rather than using traditional trawls that can damage fragile organisms, the team utilized crewed submersibles and free-fall baited landers. Explaining the value of this non-destructive method, the research team noted:

This combination enabled us to build the most comprehensive visual baseline yet for abyssal and hadal megafauna in the Northwest Pacific to date.

They added that the study aims to establish a foundation for the future, emphasizing that:

More than anything, the hadal zone remains one of Earth’s least-explored and most intriguing frontiers.

Learn more: Jamieson AJ, Swanborn DJB, Bond T, Cundy MC, Fujiwara Y, Lindsay D, Stott MS, Kitazato H (2026) Faunal biodiversity of the lower abyssal and hadal zones of the Japan, Ryukyu and Izu-Ogasawara trenches (NW Pacific Ocean; 4534-9775 m). Biodiversity Data Journal 14: e182172. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e182172

The Internet Names a New Deep-Sea Chiton

Ferreiraella populi
Ferreiraella populi on woodfall. Image credit to ©ChongChen/JAMSTEC

Finally, highlighting a unique way the public can engage with science and taxonomy, a recently found deep-sea chiton was named by the internet after science YouTuber Ze Frank featured it in an episode of his “True Facts” series. Originally discovered in 2024 within the Izu-Ogasawara Trench at a depth of 5,500 meters, this new species belongs to the genus Ferreiraella, a rare and specialized group of mollusks that live exclusively on sunken wood in the deep sea.

From over 8,000 suggestions submitted across social media, the research team selected the name Ferreiraella populi. The epithet populi is a Latin singular noun in the genitive case meaning “of the people”.

Prof. Dr. Julia Sigwart, co-chair of the Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance (SOSA), emphasized the broader significance of this public discovery:

Ferreiraella populi exemplifies the overwhelming biodiversity of the oceans, the vast majority of which remains unexplored. Many species go extinct before we even know they exist – this is especially true for marine invertebrates.

Learn more: (SOSA) SOSA, Chen C, Frank H, Kraniotis L, Nakadera Y, Schwabe E, Sigwart JD, Trautwein B, Vončina K (2026) Ocean Species Discoveries 28–30 — new species of chitons (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) and a public naming competition. Biodiversity Data Journal 14: e180491. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e180491 

@pensoft.publishers

Happy #DeepDay ! Started by Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, this annual day is aimed at raising awareness to the incredible diversity in our deep seas. Today, we’re sharing with you three remarkable studies from our journals – each one a window into a fascinating world, hoping to raise awareness and inspire action to #DefendtheDeep . 👇𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐠: https://blog.pensoft.net/…/celebrating-deep-day-with…/ 🔎By analysing 460 hours of video from landers and submersibles across the Japan, Ryukyu, and Izu-Ogasawara trenches, researchers found something extraordinary: a mysterious organism so unusual it was classified as Animalia incerta sedis! 📗𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 Biodiversity Data Journal (𝐁𝐃𝐉) 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e182172 Cc: Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre at The The University of Western Australia, JAMSTEC: Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, Inkfish, Caladan Oceanic LLC 🎥Footage credit: Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre, Inkfish, Caladan Oceanic, Jamieson et al., 2026 After thousands of name suggestions from the public, the “chiton of the people” has been officially described in Biodiversity Data Journal. 🙌A huge thank you to everyone who voted and participated! Cc: True Facts Senckenberg Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance – SOSA 🎥Footage credit: ©ChongChen/JAMSTEC 𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐃𝐉: https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e180491 🦐24 new deep-sea amphipods discovered in the Clarion Clipperton Zone. Through an international collaboration – with key momentum from a 2024 taxonomic workshop at Uniwersytet Łódzki – researchers described 24 new species of amphipods from the central Pacific abyss. 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 ZooKeys: https://zookeys.pensoft.net/issue/4856/ See less #deepsea #deepocean #sciencetok

♬ Fantasy in an Immersive World – Ernesto P. Neto

These studies highlight the vastness of the unexplored frontier that our deep seas and oceans offer. Revealing this hidden life – from entirely new evolutionary branches of amphipods to records of unknown organisms – requires global collaboration, cutting-edge exploration technologies, and the involvement of the general public.

Ultimately, this shared pursuit of discovery provides the fundamental knowledge crucial for conservation and policy decisions. As Deep Day reminds us of the encroaching threats from deep-sea mining, human-derived debris, and destructive fishing, we must work together to understand these fragile habitats so that we can effectively protect them and #DefendtheDeep.

For more curious research follow Pensoft Publishers’ socials: Facebook, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and X.

New ‘Ecclesiastical’ Moth named after Pope Leo XIV

Described as Pyralis papaleonei, the finding serves as a powerful call for biodiversity conservation, inspired by a biblical reference.

Distinguished by its striking colors and a name that carries the weight of a high ecclesiastical office, a new species of moth has been discovered in the rugged terrain of Greece. When researchers from the Tyrolean State Museum, the Finnish Museum of Natural History and the Bavarian State Collection of Zoology identified this unique insect in the White Mountains of Crete, they chose a name that reflects both its noble appearance and a message of environmental hope: Pyralis papaleonei – derived from “Papa Leone” (Pope Leo).

The discovery, published in the open-access journal Nota Lepidopterologica on 28 April 2026, highlights that even among such conspicuous European moths, overlooked species remain to be discovered. The new species is currently only known from the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in the western part of Crete, where it appears to be an endemic treasure of the island.

Type-locality of Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. (Greece, Crete, Omalos plateau). Image credit: Peter Huemer.

Striking purple forewings

The so-called Pope Leo Moth has a wingspan of around two centimeters, placing it among the medium-sized representatives of its group. Its most distinctive features are its purple forewings with an orange-golden patch and prominent white bands. The moths were recorded at artificial light sources and appear to be mainly active in June. So far, little is known about the biology and lifestyle of the new species. It was distinguished from related species based on classical morphological characteristics – such as wing pattern, coloration, and genital morphology – as well as genetic fingerprinting. Molecular analyses revealed a divergence of around six percent from its closest relative, clearly indicating that it represents a distinct species.

Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov., holotype. Image credit: Peter Huemer.

A tradition of remarkable species names

Butterflies and moths are often named after physical characteristics, geographic origins, or in honor of distinguished individuals. Within the genus Pyralis, however, a particular tradition can be observed: as early as 1775, Austrian naturalists Michael Denis and Ignaz Schiffermüller described the first species of the group as Pyralis regalis (“royal”), inspired by its splendid coloration. This was followed by sonorous names such as Pyralis princeps and Pyralis cardinalis, also referring to the remarkable beauty of these moths.

All these species belong to the diverse superfamily Pyraloidea, which comprises around 16,000 described species worldwide and represents one of the largest groups among micro-moths.

Specimen of Pyralis regalis. Image credit: Peter Huemer.

Taxonomy as the “first profession” of humankind

The naming of living organisms also has a cultural-historical dimension: in the Old Testament (Genesis 2), Adam is firstly tasked with naming all animals. In this sense, taxonomy – the science of classifying, naming, and organising organisms – can be regarded as one of humanity’s earliest endeavors.

For study leader Peter Huemer of the Tyrolean State Museum Ferdinandeum, naming a species is therefore more than a formal scientific act: it also serves as a symbolic appeal to the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, to highlight humanity’s central responsibility in safeguarding creation. This is particularly fitting as butterflies and moths are regarded in Christianity as symbols of resurrection, transformation (metamorphosis), and the immortal soul.

Specimens of Pyralis papaleonei. Image credit: Peter Huemer.

Only a fraction of global biodiversity documented

Peter Huemer, former head of the Natural Science Collections at the Tyrolean State Museums and now a volunteer researcher, explains:

“We are facing a global biodiversity crisis, yet only a fraction of the world’s species has been scientifically documented. Effective conservation of biodiversity requires that species are first recognised, described, and named.”

Around 700 new moth species are described each year, primarily in the tropics. However, fundamental research in Europe is far from complete: in the Alps alone, approximately 200 previously unknown species have been identified in recent decades.

With their internationally significant scientific collections, the Tyrolean State Museums make an important contribution to this work. The discovery of the Pope Leo Moth, Pyralis papaleonei, highlights how much remains to be discovered even in well-studied regions of Europe—and underscores the urgent need to protect sensitive habitats.

Original source:

Huemer P, Kaila L, Segerer AH (2026) Pyralis papaleonei sp. nov. from Crete (Greece) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae). Nota Lepidopterologica 49: 63-74. https://doi.org/10.3897/nl.49.185483

For more interesting articles on lepidopterology, follow Nota Lepidopterologica on Bluesky and Facebook.

New Way of Conservation: An Acoustic Device Helps Reduce Bycatch of Endangered Black Sea Porpoises

A new study published in Nature Conservation shows that not all acoustic deterrent devices may be effective in protecting the Black Sea porpoise, Europe’s smallest marine mammal.

Guest blog post by Dr. Dimitar Popov

The endangered Black Sea harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena relicta) is facing a critical fight for survival. As Europe’s smallest marine mammal, this isolated population is being pushed toward extinction by bycatch – the unintentional entanglement in fishing gear. The crisis is most acute in the Black Sea turbot fishery, where recent estimates reveal that more than 10,000 porpoises die annually.

Led by a strong motivation to address threats to this iconic species, a team of Bulgarian researchers has carried out a four-year trial study of 57 hauls seeking effective solutions to reduce porpoise mortality. The study, now published in Nature Conservation, found bycatch in 61% of all hauls, accounting for 189 cetaceans: 182 harbour porpoises, five bottlenose dolphins, and two common dolphins.

Bycaught Black Sea harbour porpoises.
Bycaught Black Sea harbour porpoises. Photo credit to Dimitar Popov.

The trials did not begin promisingly, as the first two models of acoustic deterrent devices (pingers) tested, proved ineffective at reducing bycatch.

the researchers noted

This initial setback prompted the team to search for an alternative solution, eventually leading to a breakthrough with the PAL Wideband pinger, an acoustic deterrent device developed in Germany.

PAL Wideband pinger attached to a fishing net. Photo credit to Dimitar Popov.

Field trials demonstrated that this device can reduce harbour porpoise bycatch in the Black Sea by approximately 74%. Researchers believe the specific acoustic signals, namely the wider frequency band (between 10 and 150 kHz) emitted by the PAL Wideband model, contributed to its effectiveness, as it was the only one of the three pingers tested, that successfully deterred porpoises from approaching fishing nets.

Map of the conducted trials involving PAL Wideband pingers in 2020 and 2021. Credit to Popov et al., 2026

“Other recent studies have highlighted significant shortcomings in the conservation of harbour porpoise populations in European waters,” the researchers stated. This underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to reduce bycatch, the leading human-induced cause of mortality for the species.

Mitigation measures could include spatio-temporal closures of high-risk fisheries in areas where harbour porpoises are most abundant, as well as the adoption of alternative or modified fishing gear, including the use of acoustic deterrent devices.

the experts noted
black sea harbour porpoise in a net
Bycaught Black Sea harbour porpoise. Photo credit to Dimitar Popov.

Among the available options, the use of effective pingers, supported by appropriate financing mechanisms, is increasingly seen as one of the most practical and widely accepted approaches to reducing bycatch while maintaining profitable fishing operations.

Not all acoustic deterrent devices are equally effective in reducing the bycatch of the harbour porpoise in the Black Sea.

the researchers concluded

Their findings demonstrate that certain pinger models fail to mitigate porpoise bycatch in the bottom-set gillnets specifically used to target turbot.

The study underscores the importance of careful selection and testing of deterrent devices and emphasizes that this distinction must be explicitly taken into account in the development of targeted and effective strategies to reduce bycatch in Black Sea fisheries.

If you are interested in other marine research from Bulgaria, take a look at the topical collection “Black Sea ecosystem in the spotlight” which includes this study.

Original source:

Popov D, Meshkova G, Dimitrov H, Panayotova M (2026) Can pingers mitigate the bycatch of the endangered Black Sea Harbour Porpoise? Nature Conservation 63: 1-15. https://doi.org/10.3897/natureconservation.63.183768

A Philosopher’s Serpent: New Grass-Green Pitviper Discovered in China’s Giant Panda National Park

The species name honours the philosopher known as Laozi, whose teachings emphasise the balance between humanity and the natural world.

The misty forests of the Giant Panda National Park in western Sichuan have long been a focus for biodiversity conservation. While the park is synonymous with its namesake bear, recent research has highlighted a different kind of resident. A team of scientists from the Chengdu Institute of Biology and other regional institutions recently identified a new species of pitviper that had been overlooked for decades. The results are published in the open-access journal Zoosystematics and Evolution.

Trimeresurus lii in life. (Image credit: Bo Cai).

Named Trimeresurus lii, or the Huaxi Green Pitviper, the snake was previously confused with the more common bamboo pitviper. Through a combination of genetic sequencing and detailed physical analysis, researchers determined that these populations represent a distinct lineage. The species name honours Li Er, the philosopher known as Laozi, whose teachings emphasise the balance between humanity and the natural world.

Fresh specimen of the holotype of Trimeresurus lii. (Image credit: Bo Cai).

Visually, the Huaxi Green Pitviper is defined by its vibrant grass-green body and distinct eye colors that range from amber to orange-yellow. There are clear physical differences between the sexes. Males feature a tricolor stripe of red and white along their sides, while females possess a simpler yellow stripe. One of the technical features that helped researchers distinguish this snake from its relatives is its smooth head scales, a trait not found in similar species within the region.

Habitat of Trimeresurus lii. (Image credit: Bo Cai).

The discovery took place in the West China Rain Zone, specifically around Mt. Emei and Xiling Snow Mountain. This area is a known biodiversity hotspot, yet many of its smaller or less charismatic species remain understudied. The identification of Trimeresurus lii as the 58th species in its genus serves as a reminder that even well-documented regions still hold biological secrets.

Map showing the type localities of Trimeresurus species and the localities of Trimeresurus lii. (Image credit: Cai et al.).

This find underscores the broader value of the Giant Panda National Park. By protecting large swaths of habitat for flagship species, the park inadvertently preserves a complex ecosystem of specialised reptiles and amphibians. Documenting these animals is a necessary step toward understanding the full scope of life within China’s protected wilderness.

Original source:

Cai B, Gou Y, Wang G, Liu F, Liang D, Gu X, Gu H, Fang H, Liu Y, Li Q, Ding L (2026) A new species of the genus Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 (Squamata, Viperidae) from western Sichuan Province, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution 102(1): 285-302. https://doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.178601

Check out the Zoosystematics and Evolution website and follow the journal on BlueSky and Facebook.

The Emerald Forest: The middle Magdalena river Valley in Colombia, a biodiversity treasure hidden until recently

Lowland tropical rainforests, especially in South America, harbour the world’s most diverse flora – including a wide array of neotropical trees.

Guest Blog Post by M. Alejandra Jaramillo

The Mountains

In May 2022, we went on our first expedition to Serranía de Las Quinchas. To reach the Serranía, we turned west in the municipality of Chiquinquirá (known by its beautiful Cathedral, dated 1796), Boyacá department.

Little by little, we left behind the farmland and paved roads, reaching the deep green forest patches a few miles after the town of Otanche (one of the main sites of Emerald commerce).

Serranía de las Quinchas, a well-conserved forest in the middle of emerald production. Photo by Juan Pablo Alarcón.

Leydi Galvis and her parents, Don Lucindo y Doña Edilsa, greeted us with kind smiles and hot coffee, and we subsequently set up the camp to prepare for the next day’s expedition. We spent three days walking up and down the slopes, finding beautiful plants wherever we looked.

Accompanying our group of students from Universidad Militar was Dayro Rodriguez, a young botanist with an incredible eye for plants and a perceptive photographer. It was like visiting the Chocó Region –  very humid, green, and diverse!

In our first expedition, we collected most of our plants, including a new species of peltate leaves belong to pepper family (Piperaceae); “caipe” (Orphanodendron gradiflorum C. Cast. & G.P. Lewis), and Romeroa verticillata Dugand.

Interestingly, our Piper quinchasense M. A. Jaram., has now been spotted in several localities in the middle Magdalena Valley. The enigmatic legume Orphanodendron, meanwhile, derives its generic name from its classification within a subfamily of the Fabaceae. However, “caipe” is a locally common tree used for timber.

Romeroa, on the other hand, is a monospecific genus of trees in the Bignoniaceae with unifoliolate leaves. It is a Colombian endemic taxon, known exclusively in wet forests, such as the Las Quinchas region, located in the Boyacá, Cundinamarca, and Santander departments. The genus has been collected only a few times after its description 70 years ago.

Thus, the flora at Las Quinchas is an exciting combination of species with affinities to the Andes, Chocó Region, and the North West Amazon, with many endemics that make the area a deep, green paradise.

Left, flower of “caipe”, Orphanodendron grandiflorum (Leguminosae). On the right, Romeroa verticillata (Bignoniaceae). Photos by Dayro Rodriguez.

 Subsequent expeditions to the site have consistently yielded discoveries of new and rare plant species. These efforts are supported by a close collaboration with Gerardo Aymard, an expert botanist whose unrivaled ability to review collections and identify new taxa is essential to our work.

Gerardo’s botanical expertise has allowed him to identify two new species to science: Grias lucindoae Aymard & M. A. Jaram. (Lecythidaceae) and Schlegelia longirachis Aymard & M. A. Jaram. (Schlegeliaceae). Both rare genera are often missed by collectors or remain untouched in Herbaria.

Sarcaulus paujuliensis M. A. Jaram & T. D. Penn. Photo by Andres Majin-Ladino.

The Lowlands

In 2024, we had the opportunity to visit the lowlands in the same region. A team of faculty and students from Universidad Militar Nueva Granada visited Reserva “El Paujil”.

Lizette Sierra, Paula Lara, and Luisa Suarez came across a tree species with a unique flower that, no doubt, turned out to be a new taxon. Again, by the joint efforts of the young and inquisitive Andres F. Majin-Ladino, and the expert eye of Gerardo Aymard, we decided it was a rare Sapotaceae – this is one of those families for which indeterminate specimens pile up in herbaria around the world, as botanists just do not find flowers or the courage to identify species.

We consulted the world expert in Sapotaceae, Terrance D. Pennington (The Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew), who was puzzled by the flowers he did not recall. Andres F. Majin-Ladino, with support from Fundación Proaves, visited the locality several times to collect additional samples. We conducted molecular sequence analyses, and the four of us henceforth described a new species of Sarcaulus, S. paujilensis M. A. Jaram. & T. D. Penn, now published in the open-access journal PhytoKeys.

Local naturalist Lucindo Galvis with botanist M. Alejandra Jaramillo. Photo by Juan Pablo
Alarcón.

The Bigger Picture

It is noteworthy that the Serranía de las Quinchas is at the heart of Emerald’s business in Colombia. Mining has been the fundamental activity in the region for very long time, not only of emeralds but also coal. We ought to thank the locals for conserving the remaining beautiful forests. More exploration is needed in the region to uncover its diversity, and efforts should be made to provide alternative economic activities for the community if we want to curb deforestation.

Currently, Las Quinchas region represents a complex and fragile spot of biodiversity that remains largely uncharted, even after centuries of exploration. Humans have long modified the environment and examples of overexploitation and associated species eradication are well-documented.

Forest ecosystems, such as the Magdalena River valley, are the most important global repository of terrestrial biodiversity, with more than half of tree species at risk of extinction. Quantifying the current global forest biodiversity is therefore an essential step towards mitigating global biodiversity loss and restoring biodiversity in severely affected areas.

Tree species diversity underpins forest ecosystem functionality and services, as well as the diversity of assemblages of flora, fauna, and microbes. Therefore, characterising and describing tree species diversity (i.e., Sarcaulus paujilensis), as well as its spatial patterns, is also crucial for safeguarding global ecosystem functioning, food, water, energy security, and our well-being.

Sarcaulus paujilensis. A. Flowering branch; B. Seed; C. Fruiting branch; D. Immature fruit; E. Mature fruit; F, G. Transversal section of fresh fruit. Photos by A. Lizette Sierra, Paula Lara, and Luisa Suarez; B–G. Andrés F. Majín-Ladino.

We are confident that many new plant species of the common families (i.e., Burseraceae, Lecythidaceae, Leguminosae, Meliaceae) of these wet forests will reveal themselves as we visit the locality and walk along the ridges with our eyes open.

Key to our discoveries is our passion for exploring the forest. Indeed, we have young students like Andrés Majin, and young botanists like Dayro Rodriguez on our side. Don Lucindo is equally attentive to let us know about flowering and fruiting periods and rare plants to examine. The contribution of young botanists and local experts has been key to our discoveries!

Original source:

Jaramillo MA, Pennington TD, Aymard-Corredor GA, Majin-Ladino AF (2026) Morphological and genetic evidence for the Sarcaulus brasiliensis complex (Sapotaceae, Chyrsophylloideae) reveals a new species from the rainforests of the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia. PhytoKeys 273: 37-54. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.273.175192

Remarkable Bat Discoveries from the ZooKeys Archives

These discoveries, ranging from a species rediscovered after a century to new regional records, emphasise the impressive diversity of bats.

Bats are nocturnal mammals that are critical to healthy ecosystems around the globe; they act as pollinators, seed dispersers, and natural pest controllers. In honour of Bat Appreciation Day (17 April), we are highlighting some of the most interesting bats published in our open-access journal ZooKeys.

The following discoveries, ranging from a species rediscovered after a century to new regional records, emphasise the remarkable diversity of bats and the ongoing efforts of researchers to understand and protect them.

The Strange Big-eared Brown Bat (Histiotus alienus)

Adult male of Histiotus alienus, captured on the municipality of Palmas, Paraná state, Brazil. (Image credit: Cláudio et al.).

For over a hundred years, the strange big-eared brown bat was known only from a single specimen collected in Uruguay in 1916. This elusive species remained unseen by the scientific community for a century, leading to significant uncertainty regarding its biology and true distribution.

However, a study led by Brazilian researchers documents the rediscovery of this bat in the Palmas Grasslands of southern Brazil, providing the first confirmed record for the country. This finding significantly expands the known range of the species and offers researchers the first opportunity to provide a detailed redescription.

Histiotus alienus is distinguished by its large and oval ears that are connected by a low skin fold. Its fur is a deep, dark brown on the back, while the underside is slightly paler. The rediscovery occurred in a unique landscape characterised by high-altitude grasslands and Araucaria forests, a habitat that is increasingly threatened by human activity.

Learn more: Cláudio VC, Almeida B, Novaes RLM, Navarro MA, Tiepolo LM, Moratelli R (2023) Rediscovery of Histiotus alienus Thomas, 1916 a century after its description (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae): distribution extension and redescription. ZooKeys 1174: 273-287. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1174.108553

The Flat-skulled Woolly Bat (Kerivoula depressa)

Kerivoula depressa. (Image credit: Liang et al.).

The world of bat taxonomy is constantly shifting as researchers use new tools to differentiate species that look nearly identical. Another study formally documents the first records of the flat-skulled woolly bat, Kerivoula depressa, in China.

Previously, many woolly bats in the region were grouped together under other names, but detailed morphological and genetic analysis confirmed that K. depressa is a distinct part of the Chinese fauna, specifically in Guangdong and Yunnan provinces.

The defining feature of this species is its notably flattened braincase. This physical trait is an evolutionary adaptation that allows the bat to roost in very narrow spaces, such as the hollow internodes of bamboo. The bat has woolly fur that ranges from buff brown to dark brown, and it is relatively small in size.

The presence of this specialist bat in China highlights the complexity of tropical forest ecosystems and the need for further taxonomic work to correctly identify and conserve local biodiversity.

Learn more: Liang X, Xie H, Li Y, Huang Z, Li S, Wu Y, Yu W (2023) First record of the flat-skulled woolly bat Kerivoula depressa and the Indochinese woolly bat K. dongduongana (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in China. ZooKeys 1149: 1-15. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1149.85821

The Lesser False Vampire Bat (Megaderma spasma)

Megaderma spasma. (Image credit: Cook-Price et al.).

Islands often host a high number of unique species, yet their mammalian populations are frequently understudied. A comprehensive survey on Ko Pha-ngan, an island off the coast of Thailand, identifies the lesser false vampire bat, Megaderma spasma, as a new record for the island.

This species is a member of a group known for their distinctive appearance and predatory habits. While its name might sound ominous, it does not feed on blood; instead, it preys on insects and occasionally small vertebrates.

The lesser false vampire bat is easily recognised by its exceptionally large ears that are joined at the base and the absence of a visible external tail. During the survey, researchers found this species in a variety of environments, including national park forests, disturbed forest fragments, and areas with human settlements.

The discovery of M. spasma and eighteen other new records on Ko Pha-ngan demonstrates the importance of conducting biodiversity surveys in tourist-heavy regions to inform better conservation policies.

Learn more: Cook-Price DR, Petko ON, Makchai S, Artchawakom T, Suwanwaree P (2025) Mammal diversity survey of Ko Pha-ngan in Surat Thani Province, Thailand. ZooKeys 1229: 77-102. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1229.118127

The Grey-bellied Dwarf Dog-faced Bat (Molossops griseiventer)

Details specimen of Molossops temminckii. (Image credit: Ramírez-Chaves et al.).

Some species remain hidden until scientists take a closer look at existing museum collections and genetic data. For years, the grey-bellied dwarf dog-faced bat was considered a synonym of the more common Molossops temminckii. However, a recent revision has revalidated Molossops griseiventer as a separate species.

This grey-bellied dwarf dog-faced bat can be identified by its characteristic greyish ventral fur and specific cranial proportions. Beyond its appearance, the revalidation of this species has major implications for its protection. Unlike its more widespread relatives, M. griseiventer is restricted to the inter-Andean valleys of Colombia, a region heavily impacted by agricultural development.

Because it is now recognised as an endangered species, conservationists can advocate for specific protections for its remaining habitat. This case proves that understanding the true diversity of bats is a prerequisite for effective conservation.

Learn more: Ramírez-Chaves HE, Morales-Martínez DM, Martínez-Medina D, Ossa-López PA, Rivera-Páez FA (2023) Revising the diversity within the Dwarf Dog-faced Bat, Molossops temminckii (Chiroptera, Molossidae), with the revalidation of the endangered Molossops griseiventer. ZooKeys 1180: 237-256. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1180.109091

The stories of these four species remind us that our understanding of biodiversity is always evolving. Through continued exploration and open-access publishing, we can better appreciate and protect the bats that share our planet.

Once again, Happy Bat Appreciation Day from ZooKeys and Pensoft Publishers!

For more articles on zoology, visit the ZooKeys website and follow the journal on BlueSky and Facebook.

Meet the Crevice Weaver: A Newly Discovered Urban Spider from Colombia

The Pikelinia floydmuraria, a new addition to the South American Pikelinia population, was observed in Colombia’s department of Tolima and is now described in the journal Zoosystematics and Evolution.

A team of researchers from institutions across South America have expanded scholarly knowledge of the Pikelinia spider genus, with their recent discovery of a new crevice weaver species: Pikelinia floydmuraria.

The new species name is a creative tribute to the legendary rock band Pink Floyd, while simultaneously referencing the spider’s specific habitat. “Muraria,” derived from the Latin word for “wall”, reflects the species’ tendency to reside in the walls of buildings, though indeed also alludes to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall.

  • A photo of the wall were these spiders live in Armenia, Quindío. Photo credit to Leonardo Delgado-Santa.
  • Pikelinia floydmuraria, male paratype. Credit to Leonardo Delgado-Santa.

These findings are described in greater detail in the open-access journal Zoosystematics and Evolution (ZSE) and serve as a particularly important contribution to the wider study of synanthropic spiders – species that have adapted to human-created environments. Despite the ecological importance of these spiders in Colombia, research into their biology and nutritional ecology has received little attention. The discovery of the Pikelinia floydmuraria, alongside observations of additional populations in neighbouring Colombian departments, holds the potential to remedy this problem.

The species establishment

The first regional review of the genus Pikelinia was established in 1946 by the Brazilian zoologist Mello-Leitão. For decades, the genus remained obscure, with species often misidentified or “lumped” into the type genus Filistata, most commonly found in the Mediterranean region.

In 2022, however, a major study redefined Pikelinia as part of a distinct South American spider group. Pikelinia floydmuraria is the most recent addition to the genus and provides considerable insight into the dietary composition of these crevice weavers.

Skilled hunters

  • Pikelinia floydmuraria from Tolima, Female Juvenile, attacking a cockroach on the web. Credit: Julio C. González-Gómez.
  • Pikelinia floydmuraria from Tolima, Female Juvenile, attacking a cockroach on the web. Credit: Julio C. González-Gómez.

These spiders are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on insects including flies, beetles and ants. Remarkably, they are capable of taking down prey up to six times their own size and often build their webs near streetlights to catch insects attracted to the glow. The above figure provides a visual representation of the spider’s predatory behaviour in urban habitats, demonstrating its ability to prey on insects larger than itself.By keeping these insect populations under control, crevice weavers thus maintain a healthier balance in the Colombian urban environment.

The research team behind this discovery, led by Osvaldo Villarreal and Leonardo Delgado-Santa, note that Pikelinia floydmuraria only measure about 3 to 4 millimetres in length. One of their most unique internal features is found in the females, which contain reproductive organs comprising long and slender tubes that are shaped like the letter “S”. In urban environments, they can be found tucked in the cracks and crevices of building walls, with observed concentrations reaching between 20 and 30 spiders in a single square metre.

Pikelinia fasciata, female from Galapagos A. Habitus (dorsal view).  Credit: Andrea C. Roman.

The researchers further observed that Pikelinia floydmuraria is a very close relative of another species called Pikelinia fasciata, which lives in the Galapagos Islands. Despite being separated by the Pacific Ocean and Andes mountain range, the two look almost exactly alike, leaving scientists to wonder: how did such similar spiders end up so far apart? It remains a mystery as to whether these traits reflect shared ancestry or similar ecological adaptations.

Nonetheless, the two can be differentiated by the appearance of their legs, with the Colombian spider displaying solid-colours, and the Galapagos featuring darker rings by contrast. The Galapagos female spiders additionally have shorter and straighter reproductive organs in comparison to the Colombian female.

Further research needed

@pensoft.publishers

🎸🕸️ Meet the latest rock star of the #spider world: Pikelinia floydmuraria. 🕷️Recently discovered in Colombia, this species was officially named after @Pink Floyd as a tribute to both their iconic album “The Wall” and the spider’s favourite hangout: urban city walls. ➡️ Follow the link to read more about this discovery: https://zse.pensoft.net/article/175423/ ➡️Or see the blog post here: https://blog.pensoft.net/2026/04/14/meet-the-crevice-weaver-a-newly-discovered-urban-spider-from-colombia/ #arachnid #spiders #newspecies #science

♬ original sound – Pensoft Publishers

In order to better determine whether Pikelinia floydmuraria is a unique species native to Colombia, the South American researchers suggest the implementation of DNA barcoding in future studies. This will provide genetic evidence that could help map the evolutionary history of Pikelinia floydmuraria. A DNA-based dietary analysis, meanwhile, would quantify the extent to which these spiders operate as natural urban pest regulators.

Whether they are just “another web in the wall” or a relative from the Galapagos, the discovery of Pikelinia floydmuraria represents a significant advancement in our understanding of South American spider taxonomy. By identifying this new Colombian species and providing the first-ever detailed anatomical description for its relative, Pikelinia fasciata, researchers have expanded scientific knowledge of the Pikelinia genus.

Pikelinia floydmuraria may be small and “comfortably numb” to the bustle of the city, but their impact on maintaining a healthy urban ecosystem is anything but quiet.

Original source

Villarreal O, Delgado-Santa L, González-Gómez JC, Rodríguez-Castro GA, Román AC, Agudelo E, García LF (2026) Another web in the wall: A new Pikelinia Mello-Leitão, 1946 (Araneae, Filistatidae) from Colombia, with notes on its diet and description of the female genitalia of P. fasciata (Banks, 1902). Zoosystematics and Evolution 102(1): 357-366. https://doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.175423

Is It a Snake or a Lizard? Understanding the Formosan Legless Lizard

These lizards are among the most secretive and least studied groups in Taiwan.

A research team from the National Taiwan Normal University has clarified the status of a secretive reptile through a new study published in the open-access journal ZooKeys. Led by Si-Min Lin, the team focused on the Formosan legless lizard, scientifically known as Dopasia formosensis. These lizards are among the most secretive and least studied groups in Taiwan, living primarily under leaf litter and humus in moist forests. This elusive behavior makes field observations and ecological studies extremely difficult.

The study resolves a century of taxonomic debate over whether Taiwan’s legless lizards comprise one species or two. For decades, these populations were classified as Dopasia harti, a status complicated by the loss of the original Dopasia formosensis type specimen after World War II. To stabilise the identity of the species and re-establish it as the distinct lineage Dopasia formosensis, the research team has designated a “neotype” – this is a new physical specimen that serves as the official reference for the species name.

Dopasia formosensis in natural habitat: A fully mature adult male showing its dorsal bluish marking; A relatively younger male; A young individual with pale brown dorsal coloration and sharply contrasting black ventral surface. (Photo credit: Yu-Jhen Liang).

Physical Characteristics

The Formosan legless lizard is a medium-sized reptile that lacks external limbs. Adult males typically have a body length between 175 and 230 millimeters, while females are similar in size. A key feature of this species is its exceptionally long tail, which can be nearly double the length of its body.

People often mistake these lizards for snakes, but they possess several distinct features that set them apart. Unlike snakes, legless lizards have external ear openings, although they are quite small. They also have moveable eyelids, which means they can blink, a trait no snake possesses. Further, these lizards have a prominent lateral fold, which is a longitudinal groove running along each side of the body. This fold allows the skin to expand, which is useful for breathing and when females are carrying eggs.

Head morphology of the neotype of Dopasia formosensis; an adult male from Mingchi, Yilan County, Taiwan. (Photo credit: Chih-Wei Chen and Chin-Chia Shen).

Etymology and Colouration

The species name formosensis is rooted in the historical name for Taiwan, “Formosa”, derived from the Portuguese phrase Ilha Formosa (“Beautiful Island”). The name combines this geographical reference with the Latin suffix “-ensis”, which indicates the place of origin.

Top: Landscape near the type locality of Dopasia formosensis in Hinokiyama, currently known as a part of the Fuba Cross-ridge Trail.

Bottom: Landscape of the collection site of the neotype near Mingchi, Yilan, Taiwan. (Photo credits: Chung-Wei You and Kai-Xiang Chang).

The study also clarified a major point of ambiguity regarding the species’ color. Previously, lizards with bright blue spots were thought to be a different species than those without them. The research team confirmed that these markings are actually a form of sexual dichromatism – while females and young lizards usually have a plain pale brown or bronze color, fully mature adult males often display these conspicuous blue markings as a form of secondary sexual signalling.

Behavioural Characteristics

Since these legless lizards are so rarely seen, the research team relied on citizen science data from the Taiwan Roadkill Observation Network to gather information. In the wild, these lizards prefer high-humidity environments in mid-elevation forests with dense canopy cover. 

Sampling sites of Dopasia formosensis (Kishida, 1930), D. harti (Boulenger, 1899), and D. hainanensis (Yang, 1983) available from GenBank.

The researchers also noted parental care as a key behavioural characteristic for the species, suggesting that they may exhibit more complex social behaviors than many other reptiles. In related species within the Dopasia genus, for instance, females are known to exhibit egg-guarding behavior, where they remain with their clutch to protect it from predators and environmental hazards until the offspring hatch.

Egg guarding by a female Dopasia formosensis in the wild, observed in Pingtung County, southern Taiwan. (Photo credit: Weizun Wang).

A prior study documenting the species now recognised as Dopasia formosensis (previously identified as D. harti) notably also detailed its interesting fighting behavior. The encounter begins with a ritualised display where the lizards circle each other with mouths agape, flattened throats, and elevated forebodies. This posturing eventually escalates into physical combat, characterised by one-sided biting and rotational rolling as the males attempt to subdue one another.

Conclusion

The Formosan legless lizard is currently listed as a protected species under Taiwanese law. The research team emphasises that a stable scientific name and clear understanding of the species is critical for future conservation.

“Through these efforts, we aim to provide a more stable framework for future taxonomic, ecological and conservation studies of this overlooked lizard group.”

The Research Team

By making their data openly available, they hope to encourage further study of these unique animals across East Asia.

Original source:

Lin S-M, Shen C-C, Lin T-E, Liang Y-J, Chang W-H (2026) Redescription and neotype designation of Dopasia formosensis (Kishida, 1930) (Squamata, Anguidae) from Taiwan. ZooKeys 1270: 69-98. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1270.173752

For more articles on zoology, visit the ZooKeys website and follow the journal on BlueSky and Facebook.

The Sith Lord of the Sea: Supergiant Isopod in the WoRMS’ Top 10 Marine Species of 2025

The supergiant deep-sea isopod of the genus Bathynomus makes it to WoRMS Top 10 Marine Species of 2025.

What is now celebrated globally as Taxonomist Appreciation Day began in 2013. 19 March was declared by Dr. Terry McGlynn – a researcher and professor at California State University, Dominguez Hills – as a new holiday to highlight the extraordinary importance of taxonomy and taxonomist scientists to research in other fields.

To celebrate the scientists who classify, define, and name all things living, the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) has issued its Top 10 Marine Species of 2025, honouring the discoveries in marine biology throughout the past year.

Last year saw fascinating discoveries in the world of marine life. And today, we are super excited to share with you the species that made it to the Top 10 this year, first published in Pensoft’s open-access journal ZooKeys.

How are these lists compiled? It is a rigorous process, where WoRMS first invites all their editors to nominate their favourites, and then asks a small committee of taxonomists and data managers to provide their votes.

Now, without further ado, join us into the Dark Side to find out exactly why and how this particular species turned up at the top.

The Supergiant Isopod

The head of Bathynomus vaderi. Image by Nguyen Thanh Son

Meet Bathynomus vaderi, a supergiant isopod belonging to the genus Bathynomus. Species from this genus can reach more than 30 cm in length and are known in Vietnam as bọ biển or “sea bugs.” Bathynomus vaderi marks the first record of such a species in Vietnamese waters.

As you might have guessed, the moniker vaderi is inspired by the appearance of its head, which closely resembles the distinctive and iconic helmet of Darth Vader, the most famous character of Star Wars.

From the Market to the Lab

  • Prof. Peter Ng examining giant isopods from a seafood market in Hanoi, October 2024. Photo by Nguyen Thanh Son
  • Dr. Conni Sidabalok examining individuals of Bathynomus vaderi at Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, Singapore. Photo by Rene Ong

The story of how it was found is quite compelling. In contrast to the traditional image of deep-sea expeditions, Bathynomus vaderi was obtained from local sellers where the isopods are fished.

In March 2022, staff from Hanoi University purchased four giant isopod individuals from Quy Nhơn City and sent two of them to Peter Ng from the National University of Singapore for identification. Subsequently, this sparked an international collaboration between Ng, Conni M. Sidabalok (National Research and Innovation Agency, Indonesia), and Nguyen Thanh Son (Vietnam National University). Together, this expert team studied the specimens and confirmed they had discovered a species new to science.

Video by Kyle Hill on YouTube.

A Deep-Sea Delicacy

Giant isopods like Bathynomus vaderi have become an expensive delicacy in Vietnam. Until 2017, local fishermen only sold them as low-priced bycatch, but in recent years, the media has drawn public attention to this unusual seafood. Some even claim it is more delicious than lobster, the “king of seafood.”

The Importance of the Find

News story by Margherita Bassi via the Smithsonian magazine.

This discovery is a reminder of just how much we still don’t know about the vast deep-sea environment. If such a supergiant isopod could remain hidden for so long, it speaks to the extraordinary amount of work still needed to uncover the rich biodiversity of Southeast Asian waters – work that depends on the combined efforts of researchers and taxonomists, whose contributions are at the frontline of conservation.

The celebration is not over; we invite you to explore the Pensoft-published species that have previously made it to the WoRMS Top 10 and revisit the ocean’s most fascinating discoveries:

Original study:

Ng PKL, Sidabalok CM, Nguyen TS (2025) A new species of supergiant Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from Vietnam, with notes on the taxonomy of Bathynomus jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017. ZooKeys 1223: 289-310. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1223.139335