Papéis Avulsos de Zoologia – ISSN (online) 1807-0205 and ISSN (print) 0031-1049 – is a peer-reviewed open-access scientific journal that primarily covers the areas of Zoology, publishing original contributions in systematics, paleontology, evolutionary biology, ecology, taxonomy, anatomy, behavior, functional morphology, molecular biology, ontogeny, faunistic studies, and biogeography.
Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Museu de Zoologia (MZUSP).
Responsibility: The scientific content and the opinions expressed in the manuscript are the sole responsibility of the author(s). Copyrights: The Authors. The journal is licensed under a Creative Commons attribution-type CC-BY.
ISSN Identifier Correction for Volumes 64 to 66 following the discontinuation of the print version
Copyright (c) 2026 Editorial Board https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cecidomyiidae (Diptera): richness and distribution in the Amazonian forest
The present study aimed to survey the richness and distribution of gall midge species (Cecidomyiidae) in the Amazon forest. Additionally, we compilated data on the characterization of insect galls and host plant species identification, and developed a taxonomic key of gall midge genera registered in the Amazon forest. For this, data were obtained from the literature, but also from papers containing the original description of each gall midge species. A total of 31 gall midge species have been recorded in the Amazonian forest, with the majority reported in the Brazilian Amazon (29) and two species found in the Peruvian Amazon. The genera Lopesia was the best represented among gall midges. Calophyllaceae were the plant family with the greatest number of gall midge species. Leaves were the most attacked plant organ (74%). Most morphotypes are globoid (75%), green (42%), glabrous (58%), and one-chambered (55%). The state of Amazonas (Brazil) and the department of Loreto (Peru) recorded the highest number of gall-inducing species. Furthermore, 17 gall midges species were described from the Brazilian Amazon, while only two species were described from the Peruvian Amazon. The remaining species (12) were described from other biomes and latter recorded in the Amazon forest. In the 20th and 21st centuries, 13 and six gall midges species were described, respectively, being Rübsaamen and Maia the authors who described the highest number of species. After 1921, there was an 85 years interval without new taxonomic contributions until 2006, when two new species were described from the Amazon forest. The taxonomic key for gall midge genera stands out as one of the few available for distinguishing genera in the Neotropical region, facilitating the work of taxonomists. It is also the first taxonomic key specifically designed for this phytogeographic domain. In order to fill these gaps in the taxonomic information on gall-inducing insect species in the Amazon forest, more efforts are needed in the identification and description of gall-inducing species, particularly within the family Cecidomyiidae.
Copyright (c) 2026 Julio Miguel Grandez-Rios, Walter Santos de Araújo, Valéria Cid Maia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A new species of Conognatha Eschscholtz, 1829 from northwest Colombia (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
Conognatha (Pithiscus) rhombofasciata sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Stigmoderini), from northwest Colombia, is described and illustrated. The type specimen of Conognatha (Pithiscus) rochereaui Théry, 1932 was examined and is here recognized as the holotype by monotypy. The known distribution of C. (P.) rochereaui Théry, 1932 is extended to the department of Antioquia, and new collection records are provided for C. (P.) brevicollis (Kirsch, 1866), and C. (P.) lebasii (Mannerheim, 1837). Additionally, a simplified key to the Colombian species of Conognatha is proposed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Cristian Pineda; Carlos Taboada-Verona, Julián David Alzate-Cano, Luis Carlos Pardo-Locarno https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The presence of Diphaglossa gayi Spinola in Argentina (Hymenoptera: Colletidae)
We report the presence of Diphaglossa gayi Spinola, a solitary bee species of the family Colletidae, in Argentina. Until now, this species was considered endemic to Chile, where it is a common element of the Valdivian temperate rainforest fauna. The new records are based on both historical museum specimens and validated photographic observations from the citizen science platform iNaturalist, expanding the known distribution of the species into the Andean forests of Neuquén, Río Negro, and Chubut provinces. Data on distribution and floral associations are presented and discussed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mariano Lucia, José Montalva, Leopoldo Jesús Alvarez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) on native Cerrado plants in a fragment in Eastern Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Phytoseiidae mites are key natural enemies in agricultural and natural ecosystems. However, their diversity in some areas of the Cerrado biome, particularly in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil, remains poorly documented. This study aimed to survey the Phytoseiidae species associated with native plants in a Cerrado fragment in the municipality of Aparecida do Taboado, MS. Sampling was conducted quarterly over one year (2023-2024) on ten selected native plant species. A total of 268 adult mites were collected, belonging to 12 species in two subfamilies (Amblyseiinae and Phytoseiinae). The most abundant species were Euseius citrifolius Denmark & Muma (106 specimens), Phytoseius nahuatlensis De Leon (82), and Iphiseiodes zuluagai Denmark & Muma (36). Xylopia aromatica (Lam.) Mart. (Annonaceae) and Mabea fistulifera Mart. (Euphorbiaceae) were the plant species harboring the highest mite abundance. This study provides the first records of Amblydromalus zannoui Sourassou, Sarmento & Moraes and Phytoseius kaapre Demite, Lofego & Feres for the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Furthermore, the findings suggest that plant – mite associations are influenced by leaf traits and food resources: P. nahuatlensis was dominant on the trichome-rich leaves of X. aromatica, I. zuluagai utilized leaf domatia on Matayba guianensis Aubl., and the abundant E. citrifolius was linked to M. fistulifera, likely utilizing its pollen. These data help fill a faunistic gap and highlight the role of native Cerrado vegetation as a reservoir of functional biodiversity, maintaining stable populations of natural enemies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Victoria Maria Rosa Cazão, Nayelli Midiã de Almeida Corrêa, Dhiógenes Vinícius Franco Alves Costa, Alici Hikari Machado Shiozuka, Miguel Filipe da Silva Xavier, Lucas Araújo do Nascimento, Antônio Carlos Lofego, Peterson Rodrigo Demite https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Surveys of terrestrial gastropods in three nature reserves in southeast Brazil
Though only a small fraction of its original natural cover remains, the Atlantic Forest is considered a land snail diversity hotspot. While this biome has been widely explored by malacologists in the past, modern surveys of important conservation areas are lacking. Here we report the results of surveys conducted in two nature reserves and one national park in Espírito Santo state: Parque Nacional Caparaó (a fraction of which is located in Minas Gerais state), Reserva Biológica Córrego do Veado, and Reserva Biológica Sooretama. In total, 15 families of terrestrial gastropods were represented, with 35 species identified, plus another five additional morphospecies that could not be fully determined; 16 species-level taxa in Caparaó, 23 in Córrego do Veado, and 22 in Sooretama. The following are new records for Espírito Santo state (or Minas Gerais state in the case of Caparaó): Rectartemon piquetensis, Anthinus multicolor, Burringtonia labrosa, Rhinus velutinohispidus. Only two non-native species were found, Subulina octona in Sooretama and the marsh slug Deroceras laeve in Caparaó. Anecdotal natural history records are also provided, including depigmented individuals of Leiostracus perlucidus. The importance of local faunal surveys, particularly in preservation areas, cannot be overstated as we endeavour to understand our molluscan fauna.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rodrigo Brincalepe Salvador, Rafael Felipe Sousa Antunes, Henrique Campião Herculano, Roulian Inácio Marconcini, Rômulo de Araújo Primo, Rafael Masson Rosa, Fernanda Santos Silva, Barbara Mizumo Tomotani, Franklin Noel dos Santos https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pagodocerus, a new beetle genus of Mastigocoleidae from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Coleoptera: Dryopoidea)
Mastigocoleidae are an extinct beetle family known from only a few Cretaceous deposits. Here, we describe Pagodocerus volkovitshi gen. et sp. nov., a new mastigocoleid species preserved in mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber. Pagodocerus is primarily distinguished from all other beetles by its asymmetrically perfoliate antennae, with flagellomeres pronouncedly tapering apically. This discovery expands the known diversity of Mastigocoleidae and enhances our understanding of this rare beetle lineage.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yan-Da Li, Di-Ying Huang, Chen-Yang Cai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A new species of Haplocochlias (Gastropoda, Skeneidae) from the Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil
A new species of Haplocochlias Carpenter, 1864 (Gastropoda: Skeneidae), Haplocochlias pitico sp. nov., is described from the Abrolhos Archipelago, off the coast of Bahia State, Brazil. The species is characterized by its minute, turbiniform shell (1.3-1.4 mm in diameter), markedly rounded whorls, very short spire, smooth protoconch, and body whorl bearing 17 smooth spiral cords separated by interspaces with sinuous prosocline axial striae. The aperture is prosocline and rounded, with a thick, smooth peristome and a narrow but deep umbilicus encircled by two prominent cords. Haplocochlias pitico sp. nov. differs from all its congeners by the distinctive undulations on the upper part of the last whorl, particularly near the aperture. Comparisons with morphologically similar Atlantic species are provided. The present discovery, based on material collected more than four decades ago, demonstrates both the persistence of significant taxonomic gaps in reef-associated gastropod faunas and the enduring scientific value of museum collections for refining biogeographic patterns in the Southwestern Atlantic.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Caracanhas Cavallari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The correct holotype of Aegla rosanae Campos Jr., 1998 (Crustacea: Anomura: Aeglidae)
Persistent uncertainty about the holotype of A. rosanae threatens both the correct use of the species name and the nomenclatural stability of its junior synonyms. Here, the holotype is definitively identified as the male MZUSP 11162, ensuring proper usage of the name. The holotype is redescribed and illustrated, its COX2 gene sequenced, and the geographic coordinates, altitude, and photographs of the type locality are provided. The female specimen, previously mistaken for the holotype, is reassigned to the new register number MZUSP 47998.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marcos Tavares, Jessica Colavite https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Baseline fish inventory of the Trombetas River rapids, a drainage of Southeastern of the Guiana Shield, Brazil
The Trombetas River basin, a clearwater tributary of the left bank of the Amazon River, originates in the southern portion of the Guiana Shield and flows into the state of Pará, Brazil. Upstream of Cachoeira Porteira, the river flows through a rocky channel with steep gradients and sandy-rocky substrates, forming numerous rapids and waterfalls. Despite the recognized biological importance of Guiana Shield rivers, comprehensive fish surveys remain scarce. Here, we conducted a rapid assessment of the fish community inhabiting rapids, primarily using diving-based collection methods, to document species diversity and community structure in a poorly explored environment. We collected 302 specimens, representing 53 species, 43 genera, 14 families, and seven orders. Siluriformes was the most species-rich order, followed by Characiformes, Cichliformes and Gymnotiformes. At family level, Loricariidae showed the highest species richness, followed by Cichlidae, Anostomidae and Apteronotidae. We also report the first occurrence of Asterophysus batrachus (Siluriformes, Auchenipteridae) in the Trombetas River and range extensions of the strictly rheophilic genera Hypancistrus (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) and Teleocichla (Cichliformes, Cichlidae). The rapids remain preserved mainly due to their location within protected areas, such as the Trombetas State Forest and traditional community territories. However, the proposed Cachoeira Porteira Hydroelectric Dam poses a significant threat to these habitats and their associated fauna, as this stretch of the Trombetas River encompasses one of the last remaining natural rapid systems in the Amazon Basin.
Copyright (c) 2026 Felipe Arian de Andrade Araújo, Manuela Dopazo, Marlon Felipe Chumber Ferreira, Zoneibe Luz, Aline Nascimento da Silva, Maicky Lourant Porto Braga, Jamile Louise de Carvalho Malcher, Any Beatriz da Silva Damasceno, Marina Barreira Mendonça, Heriberto Gimênes Júnior, Wolmar Benjamin Wosiacki, Alberto Akama https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Dead bodies still tell tales: An alternative noninvasive and nondestructive protocol to extract cuticular hydrocarbons from museum specimens
Natural history museums represent valuable spaces for science outreach and as repositories of biodiversity data. The collections maintained in these institutions are often used as data sources for studies across various disciplines, such as ecology, phylogenetics, and population genetics. Another field that can also benefit from these resources is chemical ecology. Using insects stored in museums offers an alternative avenue for addressing new questions about the dynamics of their cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) with respect to different factors such as their interspecific variability, temporal stability and in chemotaxonomy. CHCs play a dual role in insects, serving as mechanical protection against desiccation and pathogens and mediators of communication processes. However, conventional extraction procedures can compromise the specimens given their invasive nature (e.g., hexane immersion approach). Here (1) we propose an alternative, noninvasive and non-destructive method to study CHCs in pinned insects from museum collections and (2) we examine the efficacy of this alternative compared to a more conventional approach for determining CHC profiles. We used two model organisms to address our goals, the Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 and the Tetragonisca angustula (Klug, 1807). We were able to detect CHCs in pinned specimens from both species though there was a qualitative reduction in pinned specimens when compared to fresh ones. The observed variability may reflect confounding differences associated with sampling locality. Our results suggest that this alternative protocol can be applied to assess the CHC composition of museum specimens without causing destruction and represent an effective method to be used in studies integrating taxonomy and chemical ecology.
Copyright (c) 2026 Diego Santana Assis, Sidnei Mateus, Amanda Prato, Rafael Carvalho da Silva, Fabio Santos do Nascimento https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Taxonomy and color variation in Brazilian Agapostemon bees (Apidae, Caenohalictini)
The identification of females in the sister species Agapostemon chapadensis Cockerell, 1900 and Agapostemon semimelleus Cockerell, 1900 has historically been challenging, with metasomal coloration serving as the primary distinguishing feature. However, extensive intraspecific variation observed in this trait has highlighted its unreliability as a diagnostic character. This study analyzed 727 specimens of both species, integrating morphological traits and geographic distribution to delimit species boundaries and investigate color variation. New diagnostic characters, subtle pubescence patterns – such as setae length and distribution in both sexes – are proposed to reliably differentiate the species. Agapostemon chapadensis is largely restricted to Cerrado regions, with individuals typically exhibiting amber-colored metasoma, while A. semimelleus is more widespread, predominantly displaying black metasoma. The observed variation in metasomal coloration may reflect environmental adaptations, as responses to climate or predation pressures. Further research is recommended to elucidate the ecological and evolutionary drivers of these color variations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gabriely Rasquinho de Sousa, Rodrigo Barbosa Gonçalves https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A new Hoplisoma species (Siluriformes: Callichthyidae) from the Rio Madeira basin, Brazilian Amazon
Scientific expeditions to the Madeira-Tapajós interfluvial region resulted in the capture of a peculiar small species of Hoplisoma, which is confirmed as new and described herein. The new species can be promptly diagnosed from its congeners by the following features: (I) four to five brownish to black blotches on flank midline, similarly-sized or slightly larger than others on flank; (II) dark-brown to black band on medio-distal portion of dorsal fin; (III) absence of conspicuous dark spots on regions of head and trunk; (IV) ventral laminar expansion of infraorbital 1 poorly-developed, reaching transversal line through dorsal portion of preopercle, and (V) posterior portion of supraoccipital contacting nuchal plate. Notably, the new species represents the first described Corydoradinae species from two Rio Madeira drainages: Rio Manicoré and Rio Marmelos. A discussion on the biogeography of the new species, as well as the imminent ecological threat faced by it, is provided.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shu Him Lam, Vinicius de Carvalho Cardoso Cassaro, Willian Massaharu Ohara, Murilo Nogueira de Lima Pastana https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Rediscovery and redescription of Hiperantha fontanieri Théry, 1928 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) and new records of buprestids from Colombia
After 97 years without records, Hiperantha fontainieri Théry, 1928 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is rediscovered. The species is redescribed and illustrated using three specimens from the Department of Bolívar, a new geographical record for Colombia. An identification key for the Colombian species of Hiperantha Gistel, 1834 is included, along with new departmental records for Colombia of the following buprestids species: Conognatha (Conognatha) iris (Olivier, 1790), Hiperantha testacea haemorrhoa Fairmaire, 1851, Hiperantha interrogationis interrogationis (Klug, 1825), Conognatha (Pithiscus) lebasii (Mannerheim, 1837), Dismorpha linearis (Linnaeus, 1758), Melanophila atra Gory, 1841 and Lampetis (Spinthoptera) principalis (Laporte & Gory, 1836).
Copyright (c) 2025 Papéis Avulsos de Zoologia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Neotropical leaf-footed bugs (Hemiptera, Coreidae): new taxa, synonym and distributional notes
During the review of biological collections and explorations to catalog the diversity of Coreidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) from Colombia, specimens were found that could not be associated with previously described taxa. Here they are illustrated and described. The species El grajo gen. et sp. nov. is placed on the tribe Hypselonotini (Coreinae), while Anorcophthia dysdercoides gen. et sp. nov. and Leptoglossus pseudoalatus sp. nov. are placed within the tribe Anisoscelini (Coreinae). Leptoscelis obscura Dallas, 1852 is synonymized with Phthiacnemia picta (Drury, 1773); and the type locality of Acidomeria dentipes (Blöte, 1935) is clarified.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sebastian Serna-Muñoz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Flies of Boraceia: a preliminary list of Diptera (Insecta) recorded at the Estação Biológica de Boraceia, São Paulo, Brazil
This study marks the 70th anniversary of the Boraceia Biological Station (EBB), a key research site in the Atlantic Forest since 1954, managed by MZUSP since 1969. It presents the first checklist of Diptera from EBB, based on literature and museum specimens. Currently, 721 species, belonging to 312 genera and 57 families, are known from EBB, including 193 species described from the area. These numbers are likely underestimated, as they are based on multiple short-term studies; to date, no comprehensive, long-term inventory specifically targeting Diptera has been conducted in the area. Among the species examined, 56 are new records for the state of São Paulo and 13 for Brazil. The three most species-rich families are Mycetophilidae, Drosophilidae, and Muscidae, while the three most diverse in the number of genera are Tachinidae, Asilidae, and Muscidae. These findings reinforce EBB’s role as a Diptera biodiversity hotspot and highlight the need for expanded research infrastructure and taxonomic expertise across Brazilian biomes. This checklist provides a foundation for future research in taxonomy, biogeography, and evolution.
A newly described gall midge (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) on medicinal Solidago chilensis Meyen in Paraná, Brazil
The Brazilian arnica Solidago chilensis Meyen (Asteraceae), a plant traditionally used in ethnopharmacology for trauma treatment, is widely distributed across South America, including all regions of Brazil. This study aimed to identify and characterize gall-inducing insects associated with fused S. chilensis flowers. Flower branches were collected twice in March 2023 from Paraná, Brazil. The branches were dried and examined under a stereomicroscope, with galls subjected to micro-computed tomography (µCT). In the second collection, fresh branches were examined for the morphological characterization of floral heads. Galled flowers were removed and divided into three groups: 1) placed in an emergence chamber to obtain adults, 2) dissected to extract larvae and pupae, and 3) fixed in ethanol for µCT analysis. Macroscopic examination revealed two flower types for S. chilensis: hermaphroditic disc flowers (fused or non-fused) and ray flowers (ligulate). The gall-inducing insect was identified as Asphondylia paranaensis sp. nov. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), a new species, and was described and illustrated based on its larval, pupal, male, female, and gall morphologies. The µCT provided novel insights into the pupal stage, and exuvia within the flower. This study highlights the importance of identifying new species, particularly medicinal plants, because gall-inducing insects may alter a plant’s metabolism and chemical composition, potentially influencing its biological properties. Further studies are required to assess the ecological and pharmacological effects of these interactions.
Ana Paula Frederico Rodrigues Loureiro Bracarense
New species of Forcipomyia (Microhelea) Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) ectoparasite of Phasmatodea (Insecta) from Atlantic Forest, Brazil
The genus Forcipomyia Meigen, 1818 comprises approximately 1,150 species and has great diversity in the Neotropical Region. The species in the subgenus Forcipomyia (Microhelea) Kieffer, 1917 are commonly found as ectoparasites of stick insects (Phasmatodea) and caterpillars (Lepidoptera). The Ixodoides species-group includes species that are ectoparasites of Phasmatodea and Orthoptera. During a field expedition to the Reserva Biológica União, Casimiro de Abreu (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), we collected a female of Forcipomyia (Microhelea) ectoparasitizing a nymph of Cladoxerus Le Peletier and Audinet-Serville, 1828 (Phasmatidae, Phasmatodea). Forcipomyia (Microhelea) naruto sp. nov. is described and distinguished from related species by characteristics of the mouthparts (especially the maxilla and labellum), legs, and abdomen. This is the second species of the Ixodoides species-group recorded for the state of Rio de Janeiro, and the first for the study area. A distribution map for the Ixodoides species-group in Rio de Janeiro is provided.
A new species of Olixon Cameron, 1887 (Hymenoptera, Rhopalosomatidae) from southeastern Brazil
A new species of the brachypterous wasp genus Olixon Cameron, 1887 is described and illustrated from southeastern Brazil. Olixon pluviatenuis sp. nov. is described based on a single male specimen collected in the Oswaldo Cruz Botanical Garden, São Paulo, representing the first record of the genus for the state of São Paulo. The new species is diagnosed and differentiated from its congeners, particularly the morphologically similar O. melinsula. Key distinguishing characters include the forewings extremely short and not expanded, with only one thick costal vein, and hindwings are entirely absent, a condition previously unreported from the New World fauna. This discovery increases the number of known Olixon species in Brazil to four and highlights the value of entomological collections in revealing hidden diversity, even in urban fragments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rogério Botion Lopes, Mayara Medeiros Bulbol https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Repositories of type specimens and insights for future taxonomic studies on Neotropical and Nearctic Megalodacne Crotch, 1873 (Coleoptera: Erotyloidea: Erotylidae)
Megalodacne Crotch, 1873 comprises over 150 species distributed across five subgenera. To date, no comprehensive taxonomic revision or phylogenetic study has been published for the genus. For future taxonomic and phylogenetic research, it is essential to gather detailed information on primary type specimens and to identify morphological characters with potential taxonomic value. In this study, we: (i) provide detailed information on the type specimens of Neotropical and Nearctic Megalodacne species; (ii) present images of these specimens or, when unavailable, of representative specimens to illustrate each species; and (iii) identify and discuss morphological characters with potential value for future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. Additionally, lectotypes are designated for Dacne audouini Lacordaire, 1842, Megalodacne batesi Crotch, 1876, Dacne multifida Lacordaire, 1842, Ips fasciata Fabricius, 1777, and Episcapha heros Guérin-Méneville, 1841 (a junior synonym of Megalodacne indica indica (Linnaeus, 1758)). Megalodacne indica multifida (Lacordaire, 1842) is proposed as a new junior synonym of M. indica indica.
Italo Salvatore de Castro Pecci-Maddalena
Copyright (c) 2026 Italo Salvatore de Castro Pecci-Maddalena, Glauco Luis do Nascimento Martins, Paul Skelley, Cristiano Lopes-Andrade https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First description of the male of Morellia (Trichomorellia) callidimera (Bigot) (Diptera, Muscidae), with examination of type material
Morellia (Trichomorellia) Stein, 1918 is a Neotropical subgenus with eight known species occurring from Mexico to Argentina. Morellia (T.) callidimera (Bigot) was described in 1887 based on a female specimen from Mexico. The male of M. (T.) callidimera is described here for the first time, 139 years after the original description, including images of the habitus and drawings of the male and female terminalia. The female holotype of M. (T.) callidimera and its junior synonym M. (T.) fulvipes were examined and redescribed. Morellia (T.) callidimera is recorded from Veracruz (Mexico) for the first time.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lucas Roberto Pereira Gomes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genotoxicity of Imidacloprid on the forensically important species Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), evaluated by Comet assay
The increasing use of chemical pesticides for crop protection has led to irreversible DNA damage in many animal species, particularly soil-dwelling insects. In this study, we tested a protocol of Comet Assay to detect DNA damage in the hemolymph cells of Chrysomya albiceps larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) exposed to the neonicotinoid Imidacloprid (IMI). Third-instar larvae were fed on freeze-dried liver substrate rehydrated with one of the following treatments: (i) distilled water (negative control), (ii) imidacloprid (IMI) (0.4980 and 0.9360 mM), and (iii) cyclophosphamide 3.83 mM (positive control). We estimated the Damage Index (DI) and the Damage Frequency (DF) in 300 cells per treatment. According to the shape of the comets, the damage in cells exposed to biocides was significantly higher than the negative control. The DF was also consistently higher in the cells of intoxicated insects. The Comet assay in the haemolymph cells of C. albiceps larvae proved to be effective for detecting DNA damage, providing new evidence for genotoxicity. The increasing use of chemical pesticides for crop protection has led to irreversible DNA damage in many animal species, particularly in soil-dwelling insects. Third-instar larvae were fed freeze-dried liver substrate rehydrated with one of the following treatments: (i) distilled water (negative control), (ii) Imidacloprid (IMI) at concentrations of 0.4980 mM and 0.9360 mM, and (iii) cyclophosphamide at 3.83 mM (positive control). We estimated the Damage Index (DI) and Damage Frequency (DF) in 300 cells per treatment. According to the shape of the comets, DNA damage in cells exposed to biocides was significantly higher than in the negative control. The DF was also consistently higher in the cells of intoxicated insects. The Comet Assay in the hemolymph cells of C. albiceps larvae proved effective for detecting DNA damage, providing new evidence of the genotoxic effects of IMI on a necrophagous insect species. We discuss the advantages and limitations of the protocol in the context of environmental forensic entomotoxicology.
Copyright (c) 2026 Claudia Rohde, Wedja Kelly de Melo Vasconcelos, Érima Maria de Amorim, Aleson Aparecido da Silva, Henrique Rafael Pontes Ferreira, Simão Dias Vasconcelos https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Expansion of the Invasive Green Mussel (Perna viridis) in Brazilian Mollusk Farming: A New Southern Frontier
The green mussel Perna viridis, native to the Indo-Pacific, has demonstrated significant invasive potential in various coastal regions worldwide, posing threats to both aquaculture and native ecosystems. In Brazil, mollusk farming is primarily concentrated in Santa Catarina, with an annual production exceeding 13,000 tons. This study aimed to confirm the occurrence of P. viridis in the region, specifically within the mollusk farming park of Itapocoroy Bay. A total of 210 individuals were collected, and molecular analyses confirmed the species’ presence through COI gene amplification, with sequences showing 99.85% similarity to those from China and India. The phylogenetic analysis supported this identification, placing the sample within a highly supported P. viridis clade. Biometric analysis revealed shell lengths ranging from 5.94 mm to 24.72 mm, with 38% of individuals’ sex indeterminate due to the absence of external sexual dimorphism. This represents an 800 km southward range expansion of P. viridis along the Brazilian coast over a six-year period. In Brazil, Perna viridis is likely introduced via ballast water and hull fouling, with secondary dispersal facilitated by coastal vessel movement. Mariculture systems are especially vulnerable due to abundant substrate and resources. The study underscores the importance of early detection to prevent further spread, given P. viridis’ ability to compete with native or commercial species, such as Perna perna, for space and food resources.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mayara Carneiro Beltrão, Gilberto Caetano Manzoni, Yan de Oliveira Laaf, Gabriela Scholante Delabary, André Oliveira de Souza Lima https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Seabirds of São Paulo, Brazil: species occurrence, conservation status and knowledge gaps
Seabirds across all the seas and oceans of the planet interact with human activities and, as a result, approximately 30% of all species are in decline and threatened with extinction. The knowledge of the composition of seabird communities in both breeding and non-breeding ranges is necessary to guide appropriate conservation measures according to its status. Fisheries, oil and natural gas exploration, offshore wind farms, among other activities, require regulation and legal frameworks to protect seabirds and other organisms in this environment. The state of São Paulo already hosts numerous such activities within its territorial waters and has its own environmental protection legislation (including a list of threatened fauna species), requiring impacts on threatened species are evaluated. The present study compiles all available information on seabirds in São Paulo and update its species list based on data obtained from literature reviews, museum specimens, band recovery records, and citizen-science platforms. São Paulo has a total of 68 recorded seabird species, including the recently recognized Oceanites chilensis and the sole Brazilian records of Pterodroma externa and Pachyptila turtur. Most (50 species) are migratory, with 14 species from the Northern Hemisphere and 36 from the Southern Hemisphere. Only 18 species are resident in Brazil, of which six breed along the São Paulo coast. Among the recorded species, 24 (35%) are listed as threatened with extinction by the IUCN, MMA and/or SMA lists. Notably, three (50%) of the six resident breeding species in São Paulo are threatened. Most of the new records came from beached birds, particularly through the Beach Monitoring Program (PMP). Unfortunately, this program forwards few of the collected specimens, including rare and unprecedented records for São Paulo’s avifauna, to scientific collections. Based on the available studies on São Paulo’s seabirds, even basic data on breeding biology, home range, and diet of even the commonest coastal, and resident species is virtually nonexistent. Similarly, knowledge regarding trends in population and occupancy of breeding sites is scarce, with only outdated data available from studies carried between 1997 and 2005. Further studies and monitoring programs on the breeding areas of these resident species are necessary to fill these knowledge gaps and provide updated scientific information to support effective conservation measures.
Description of a new species of Pisphondylia Möhn, 1960 (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae, Asphondyliini, Schizomyiina) from Brazil
Pisphondylia rodriguese, sp. nov. is proposed based on specimens from the Entomological Collection of the Museu Nacional (MNRJ), mounted on microscope slides and identified as Pisphondylia sp. (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae). Male, female, pupa and larva of 3rd instar are described. The most relevant morphological characters are illustrated. The new species induces galls on the flower peduncle of Guapira opposita (Nyctaginaceae), a native plant to Brazil. The type-locality is Ilha da Marambaia (Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro State). The new species is compared with others of the same genus.
On two new genera of Trichomycteridae (Teleostei, Siluriformes), with reallocation of some previously described taxa and discussion of phylogenetic relationships
Two new genera are established for resolving some obvious disparities in current trichomycterid classification. Salpynx is described for a monophyletic group of four species from northern shield regions of the Amazon basin, including two new ones described herein plus two others previously described: S. ephebus, new species, from Serra da Mocidade in the Rio Branco system, S. trombetensis, new species, from the Rio Trombetas drainage, S. amapaensis (previously in Ammoglanis) from the Rio Jari and surrounding basins, and S. ix (previously in Stenolicmus) from the Rio Trombetas. Species of Salpynx are opaque darkly pigmented fishes with an entirely closed skull roof (i.e., no cranial fontanels) and apomorphically diagnosed by a thick barbular bone posteriorly expanded and bilobed, and a large fenestra on the supratemporal region of the skull, anteriorly to the tunnel for the dorsal limb of the cleithrum. A second new genus, Hyaloglanis, is established for a clade of miniaturized species previously placed in Ammoglanis, namely, A. natgeorum, A. nheengatu, A. obliquus, and A. pulex. Hyaloglanis species are extremely miniaturized and highly translucent, with a single large fontanel occupying most of the skull roof and sharing an apomorphic scythe-shaped lacrimal. Salpynx and Hyaloglanis share various unusual conditions in trichomycterids, such as a reduction of the latero-sensory canal system in the skull, which anteriorly extends maximally to the sphenotic, a palatine articulating directly posteriorly with the skull and via a single articular facet, the posterolateral process of the palatine reduced and deflected laterally, lateral ethmoids mesially arched and abuting against each other only at a small area anteriorly, and a long filamentous first pectoral-fin ray. Although clear morphological evidence exists for the monophyly each of Salpynx and Hyaloglanis, difficulties remain in determining their precise phylogenetic placement. Such limitations highlight current challenges in the resolution of relationships of part of the Trichomycteridae, especially concerning Glanapteryginae (including Listrura), Potamoglanis, and Sarcoglanidinae Sarcoglanidinae (including Microcambeva). It seems certain, however, that neither Salpynx nor Hyaloglanis are closely related to the type species of either Ammoglanis or Stenolicmus. At the moment, morphological evidence favors them as each other’s sister group and related to Glanapteryginae (sensu lato).
Effects of altitude and climatic variables on alpha and beta diversity of wood-degrading beetles (Coleoptera: Passalidae) in the Eastern Andes of Colombia
Wood-degrading beetles are subsocial insects, with a primarily pantropical distribution. For most species, the entire life cycle occurs within a decaying log, where individuals feed and contribute to wood decomposition and nutrient recycling. Species tend to be restricted to particular altitudinal ranges, possibly due to variables involved in wood decomposition, including humidity and temperature. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the alpha and beta diversity of Passalidae across an altitudinal gradient in the Colombian Andes, to identify the environmental variables driving changes in alpha diversity, and to determine the processes structuring beta diversity. Beetles were sampled at four altitudes (2,500, 2,700, 3,000, and 3,300 m.a.s.l.) in the Municipal Natural Park Robledales de Tipacoque, Boyacá, Colombia, and temperature and humidity were recorded at each site. Overall, five passalid species were collected, with the highest abundance at 2,700 m.a.s.l., where Passalus curtus dominated; P. irregularis was most abundant at 2,500, P. curtus at 3,000, and P. quyefutynsuca at 3,300 m.a.s.l. There was a progressive decrease in diversity towards higher altitudes. Altitude, temperature, and humidity influenced alpha diversity, while beta diversity was structured by both the abundance gradient and the balanced variation in abundance components. In conclusion, altitude has an effect on the taxonomic diversity of wood-degrading beetles in the study area, and species distribution is influenced by the climatic variables, such as temperature and humidity, involved in the wood decomposition process.
Copyright (c) 2026 Carlos Julian Moreno-Fonseca, Edwin Rafael Ariza-Marín, Carlos Alfredo Taboada-Verona https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Range extension for Lycosa praegrandis C.L. Koch, 1836 (Araneae: Lycosidae): first record from the Republic of Kosovo and notes on ontogenetic colour change
Lycosa praegrandis C.L. Koch, 1836 is reported for the first time from the Republic of Kosovo, three specimens collected allow some discussion and illustration of ontogenetic colour change in this taxon.
Diversity of dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae) from the Pampas del Heath, Bahuaja Sonene National Park – Peru: new country records
The composition of dung beetles (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) in the Bahuaja Sonene National Park (PNBS) was studied. Five surveys were conducted in forests and grasslands during both the dry and rainy seasons. Beetles were collected by pitfall traps baited with decomposed fish and human feces. A total of 2,371 individuals of 44 species were collected. Canthon septemmaculatus, Canthidium lentum, Onthophagus rubrescens, O. haematopus, and Coprophanaeus magnoi accounted for 63.1% of the total individuals. Richness estimators indicate a high percentage of inventory completeness. The assemblage structure varied significantly between habitats and sampling months, but not between climatic epochs. Abundance and diversity were higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. The highest richness, diversity, and abundance were recorded in November 2012. The observed richness shows that even small forested fragments are important for conservation purposes. Digitonthophagus gazella is registered for the first time for this area, and the species Canthon octodentatus, Canthidium viridiobscurum, Canthi. multipunctatum, Trichillidium quadridens, C. magnoi, and Uroxys corporaali, constitute new records for the dung beetle fauna of Peru. This is the first reported study of Scarabaeinae diversity from the Heath Pampas of the PNBS, highlighting the importance of comprehensive sampling and inventories at regional and national levels.
Copyright (c) 2026 Johny Farfan Flores, Orquídea Otazú Loayza, Gorky Valencia, Erick Yabar-Landa, José Antonio Ochoa, Jorge Ari Noriega https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A new species of gall midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) associated with Peumus boldus (Monimiaceae) in Chile
Chile is characterized by high levels of endemism among its flora and fauna, yet its diverse gall-inducing organisms remain poorly studied. We describe Dasineura peumi sp. nov., a new gall-inducing midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) associated with Peumus boldus Molina (Monimiaceae), an economically significant medicinal plant native to Chile’s sclerophyllous forests. This species induces solitary or clustered fusiform galls on the stems, each housing a single larva. Morphological and phenological analyses were conducted on samples collected in the Bíobío Region of Chile in 2021 and 2022. Morphological studies revealed key diagnostic traits: antennae with 18 flagellomeres in both sexes, tarsal claws with a prominent basal tooth, as long as the empodia, and a band-like male tergite 8. The ovipositor measures 1.0-1.10 mm, approximately four times the length of the seventh tergite. Pupae are characterized by long vertical setae, very short antennal horns, a complete arrangement of facial papillae, digitiform prothoracic spiracles, and spines absent from the abdomen. Larvae possess a long spatula with two anterior teeth and an anchor-like base, a complete arrangement of lateral papillae, and eight short, uniform terminal papillae. This species has a multivoltine life cycle, with development independent of the host plant’s phenology.