Search results for “Systematics”

Unlocking the ocean’s final frontier: JSE announces open call for “Deep Sea Biodiversity” Special Issue

The Journal of Systematics and Evolution (JSE) is launching a special issue on deep sea biodiversity, covering taxonomy, phylogenomics, comparative genomics, and microbial ecology. Researchers worldwide can submit free-access papers with waived page and color charges until January 31, 2027.

61 new beetle species reveal how little we still know about biodiversity

New genetic evidence from Stajnia Cave reveals the oldest Neanderthal group reconstructed in Central-Eastern Europe

The study reconstructs the genetic profile of a small group of Neanderthals from Stajnia Cave, Poland, providing a coherent genetic picture of Neanderthals in this part of Europe. The discovery sheds light on the distribution of a particular Neanderthal maternal lineage in western Eurasia.

Although tropical mammals account for most discoveries, studies in temperate regions are more robust

A study reveals improved quality of mammal species descriptions from temperate regions, with authors from wealthy countries using more advanced techniques. The study, supported by FAPESP, analyzed 1,116 new species descriptions between 1990 and 2025.

Successful press conference for Special Issue II of the JSE Himalayas Series

The Journal of Systematics and Evolution's second Himalayas Special Issue II explores systematics and biodiversity in the region, employing next-generation sequencing and phylogenomic approaches. The release highlights a series of internationally influential advances in Himalayan biodiversity research from China, providing important sc...

Dogs and cats help spread an invasive flatworm species

A study found that dogs and cats carry an invasive flatworm species, Caenoplana variegata, which is facilitated by their sticky mucus. This discovery highlights the role of household pets in spreading invasive species globally.

Jeremy Horowitz selected for The Oceanography Society Early Career Award

Dr. Jeremy Horowitz has been selected for The Oceanography Society Early Career Award for his contributions to advancing black coral taxonomy, including new species and families. His work combines classical morphological taxonomy with phylogenomics and bioinformatics to describe new taxa and reconstruct evolutionary histories.

Building a global scientific community: Biological Diversity Journal announces dual recruitment of Editorial Board and Youth Editorial Board members

The journal Biological Diversity is seeking experts in various disciplines to address the global biodiversity crisis. The editorial board will comprise senior scholars, while the youth editorial board will include early-career researchers. The dual structure aims to combine strategic wisdom and innovative energy.

Contributions to Entomology now indexed in Scopus

Contributions to Entomology is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal indexed in Scopus, reflecting its commitment to quality and accessibility. The journal publishes research on all aspects of entomology, including insect systematics, ecology, and applied entomology.

New snake species namered in honor of Steve Irwin

A new species of wolf snake, Lycodon irwini, has been discovered in the Great Nicobar Islands and named in honor of Steve Irwin. The snakes are glossy black, non-venomous, and likely feed on reptiles and small mammals.

New wine grape variety “Muscat Shiragai” successfully developed

Researchers at Okayama University of Science successfully developed a new wine grape variety 'Muscat Shiragai', created by crossing the wild species Shiraga grape with Muscat of Alexandria. The group has filed for new variety registration, expecting formal acceptance within four to five years.

Nota Lepidopterologica welcomes new Editor-in-Chief Marcin Wiorek

Marcin Wiorek joins Nota Lepidopterologica as co-Editor-in-Chief, succeeding David Lees. He brings expertise in Lepidoptera systematics and phylogeny to the journal. Wiorek's research focuses on tiger moths and has been recognized with a recently obtained PhD.

480 macrofungal species discovered in southeast Xizang, China: 8 new species, 115 edible, and 53 poisonous fungi

A study by Tsinghua University Press discovered 480 macrofungal species in southeast Xizang, China, including 8 new species. The research identified 115 edible and 15 medicinal species, while 53 were found to be poisonous.

Historical and current population DNA reveals that there are at least 12 species of rocket frogs, three of which are already extinct

Researchers have identified a new genus of frog, Dryadobates, comprising at least 12 species, with three already declared extinct. The study utilized historical DNA analysis to clarify the taxonomic classification of previously single-species frogs, revealing hidden diversity and extinctions in the Atlantic Forest.

First journal impact factor for Frontiers of Biogeography

The journal has achieved a Scopus CiteScore of 5.5 and ranks in Q1 for both Ecology and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics categories. Its first Journal Impact Factor at 2.5 highlights its impact and relevance to the academic community.

Hidden gems in the mist: Three new frog species uncovered in northern Peru

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have identified three new species of frogs in the Cordillera de Huancabamba highlands. The study reveals that these secretive creatures possess unique characteristics, such as prominent tubercles on their bodies and adaptations to the harsh environment.

Scientists discover new, extremely neutron-deficient isotope protactinium-210

Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences have synthesized a new, highly neutron-deficient isotope of protactinium, protactinium-210. The discovery validates the facility's capability for studying heavy and superheavy nuclei.

Zoosystematics and Evolution welcomes Nicolas Hubert as Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Nicolas Hubert joins Zoosystematics and Evolution as Deputy Editor-in-Chief, bringing experience and expertise in ichthyology and genetics. He will drive further development and growth of the open-access journal.

USU ecologists document Utah's bee species and say beehive state is rich in bee diversity

Utah State University ecologists Joseph Wilson and Anthony Hunsaker published a checklist of the state's bee species, documenting 1,167 species and estimating up to 1,500 in total. The study highlights Utah's high bee diversity and provides valuable information for conservation efforts.

Dialing in the temperature needed for precise nuclear timekeeping

Researchers at JILA have characterized a unique nuclear transition in thorium-229 atoms, which is less sensitive to temperature fluctuations. The study reveals that the transition shifts by only 62 kilohertz across a wide temperature range, making it promising for clock applications.

Rare frog rediscovered after 130 years

A team of researchers has rediscovered the elusive Alsodes vittatus frog species in Chile, providing critical ecological data and highlighting conservation concerns. The rediscovery is a significant milestone for South American herpetology, emphasizing the need to study and protect this rare species.

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and partners discover new ocean predator in the Atacama Trench

Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and partners uncover a fast-swimming predatory amphipod species at depths of up to 8,000 meters. The newly discovered species highlights the importance of continued deep-ocean exploration and biodiversity discoveries in the Atacama Trench.

New research reveals delayed evolutionary origin of Asteriidae sea stars

A study published in PeerJ Life and Environment has reshaped the understanding of sea star evolution, particularly Asteriidae. The research suggests that these marine invertebrates likely originated later than previously thought, in the Late Cretaceous period.

Researchers discover new plutonium isotope

Researchers have synthesized a new plutonium isotope, plutonium-227, which is the first to be discovered by Chinese scientists. The study reveals the presence of shell closure in neptunium isotopes and sheds light on its robustness in plutonium isotopes.

Reconstructing the evolutionary history of the grape family

A new study published in the Journal of Systematics and Evolution reveals that the ancestors of grape plants were already in Europe 41 million years ago. The discovery of a new fossil species, Nekemias mucronata, provides key insights into the evolutionary history of the grape family.

Study identifies possible novel species in fish genus endemic to Neotropics

Researchers confirm 15 new species in Characidium genus, including genetic distance smaller than 2% between species with significant morphological differences. The study highlights the need for reevaluation of species classification and evolutionary history.

New species of wasp 'hidden in plain sight' discovered by researchers

Researchers at Mississippi State University have discovered a new parasitic wasp species that attacks and infects adult flies, revealing a 'spectacular example of undescribed biology hidden in plain sight'. The study highlights the importance of ongoing research investment in insect biodiversity and systematics.

Non-native plants and animals expanding ranges 100 times faster than native species, finds new research led by UMass Amherst

A new research study led by UMass Amherst found that non-native species are expanding their ranges much faster than native ones, with a speed of 35 kilometers per year on their own and 1,883 kilometers per year when humans factor in their role. This means that native species cannot keep up with climate change without human help.

Global team of researchers, including three New York botanical garden scientists, publish ground-breaking study of plant evolution with many potential uses, from plant conservation to the discovery of new medicines

A global team of researchers, led by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, sequenced DNA from over 9,500 species, creating a detailed tree of life for flowering plants. The study sheds light on plant evolution, conservation strategies and sustainable agriculture applications.

Five dazzling new species of eyelash vipers discovered in Colombia and Ecuador

Researchers have discovered five new species of eyelash vipers, characterized by their unique enlarged spine-like scales positioned atop their eyes. These vipers are also polychromatic, with different morphs exhibiting distinct colorations.

New coffee snake species discovered in Ecuador’s cloud forests

Scientists have discovered a new species of coffee snake endemic to northwestern Ecuador's cloud forests. The species is threatened by deforestation and habitat destruction, prompting calls for conservation efforts. Its discovery highlights the need to protect the cloud forest ecosystem and its surrounding human-modified habitats.

New potato-threatening pathogens reported for first time in Pennsylvania, US

Researchers at Penn State have identified six new species of Pectobacterium and one strain of Dickeya bacteria that can cause diseases such as blackleg and soft rot in Pennsylvania potatoes. These pathogens can lead to significant yield losses, particularly in the northeastern US.

Climate change effects hit marine ecosystems in multiple waves, according to marine ecologists

A new approach to understanding climate change effects on marine ecosystems considers both smooth trends and variable changes, highlighting areas vulnerable to extreme events. Researchers propose a 'more realistic' conceptual model to better predict future consequences.

Spotlight on mud snakes: Study unveils evolutionary secrets of enigmatic snake family from Southeastern Asia

A new University of Kansas genomic investigation has rewritten the evolutionary history of the Homalopsidae, a group of unique mud snakes found in Southeast Asia. The study combined genetic analyses of older museum specimens with fresher field collections to reconstruct the family tree and shed light on their evolution.

The venom spider: New genus named after Tom Hardy’s Marvel character

A new species of orb-weaving spider, Venomius tomhardyi, has been described from Tasmania. The genus belongs to the Araneidae family and is distinct from related genera due to its unique behavior and genitalia.

From oral structure to molecular evidence: new insights into the evolutionary phylogeny of the ciliate order Sessilida (Protista, Ciliophora), with the establishment of two new families and new contributions to the poorly studied family Vaginicolidae

This study reconstructs Sessilida's phylogenetic tree using infraciliature and silverline system, establishing two new families. It challenges traditional morphology-based classification and provides insights into the origin and evolution of this group.

New spider genus named after pop band ABBA

A new spider genus, Abba transversa, has been discovered in Australia, featuring distinctive dark spots and thick macrosetae on the legs. The genus was named after the Swedish pop group ABBA and is the result of a comprehensive study of orb-weaving spiders.

MLU physicists solve mystery of two-dimensional quasicrystal formation from metal oxides

Researchers at MLU discovered a structure made of rings with four, seven and ten atoms that order aperiodically in titanium oxide. High temperatures and barium create this network of rings, stabilizing them through electrostatic interactions.

Harvard researchers’ discovery of five new deep-sea squat lobster species calls for revision of current classification

Deep-sea squat lobsters are reclassified after Harvard researchers discovered five new species, showing wider geographic distribution ranges and shallower genetic diversity. The discovery highlights the importance of molecular data in understanding evolutionary history.

From water sources of the Tibetan Plateau to the ocean: State of nutrients of the Changjiang linked to the land-use changes and climate variability

The study examines nutrient changes (N, P, Si) in the Changjiang River, which increases anthropogenically after leaving the Tibetan Plateau. The river's nutrient levels are influenced by human activities, with a limited impact from climate variability and reservoirs.

Researchers find the snake clitoris

A team of researchers from the University of Adelaide has discovered the female snake clitoris, composed of nerves and red blood cells that may swell during mating. This finding counters the assumption that snakes' mating involves coercion rather than seduction.

Understanding the cryptic role fungi play in ecosystems

Researchers analyzed over 4,500 documents to understand fungal dispersal across spatial scales. They identified four scales of movement, from microscopic to landscape, and found that climate change affects where fungi reside. More data is needed to understand the biodiversity of fungi and their movement in ecosystems.

Secrets of Namibia’s fairy circles demystified: plants self-organize

Researchers from University of Göttingen found that plant water stress, not termites, causes Namibia's fairy circles. The grasses within the circles died immediately after rainfall due to strong depletion of water, while surrounding grasses thrived.

Swimmer’s Itch: what causes this neglected snail-borne disease?

A cercarial dermatitis outbreak occurred in Chana district, South Thailand, affecting rice farmers, due to ruminant parasites like Schistosoma indicum. The study identified two snail species as intermediate hosts for flatworms causing the disease.

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in June

Researchers investigate the emergence of aerobic life through halogen ratios in crustal fluids, revealing insights into ancient environments. A newly discovered submarine volcano near Tokyo Bay, Japan, is found to have past eruptive activity that poses future hazards.

New insights into the interaction of ocean, continent and atmosphere 2.7 billion years ago

Researchers studied the Temagami BIF rock formation to understand the early Earth's interaction between ocean, continent and atmosphere. They found oxygen-producing organisms on landmasses 2.7 billion years ago, 200 million years before the Great Oxidation Event.

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in May

Researchers investigate protogenetic clinopyroxene inclusions for diamond dating and find implications for understanding Earth's mantle processes. They also study Andean deformation and its relation to flat slab subduction and tectonic inheritance.

Taylor Swift, the millipede: Scientists name a new species after the singer

Researchers at Virginia Tech discovered 17 new species of twisted-claw millipedes, including Nannaria swiftae, named after singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. The millipedes play a valuable role in decomposing leaf litter and have unique characteristics such as shiny caramel-brown bodies with white spots.

New, possibly arboreal rice rat species discovered in Ecuador

A new rice rat species, possibly arboreal, was discovered in Ecuador through detailed skull analysis. The species, Mindomys kutuku, has distinct characteristics that distinguish it from its sister species.

Researchers predict population trends of birds worldwide

A study published in Ibis used machine learning to predict population trends of 801 bird species worldwide, estimating nearly half are declining. Fragmented populations, particularly non-migratory birds in tropical forests, were found to be the top predictor of population declines globally.

Frog with tapir-like nose found in Amazon rainforest, thanks to its 'beeping' call

Researchers discover new species of burrowing frog, Synapturanus danta, in Amazon peatlands. The frogs' unique calls and adaptations make them an important part of their underground ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling and soil structure.

New fossil birds discovered near China's Great Wall – one had a movable, sensitive 'chin'

Researchers identified two new species of ancient bird fossils found in northwestern China. One species, Brevidentavis zhangi, had small peg-like teeth and a movable bony appendage at the tip of its lower jaw that may have helped it root for food.

Hidden diversity: When one wasp species is actually 16 wasp species

A new study identifies at least 16 distinct wasp species previously grouped as one, Ormyrus labotus, which lays eggs in over 65 insect species. The discovery highlights the importance of seeking out hidden diversity and underscores the need for precise identification to understand ecosystem health.

Synthesizing the past, present, and potential future uses of plant specimens as functional trait data sources

A new review synthesizes past, present, and future uses of plant specimens as functional trait data sources. Herbarias are identified as a significant source of botanical diversity and have diversified scientific applications beyond taxonomy.

Plants as cold specialists from the Ice Age

A team of evolutionary biologists and botanists found that the spoonweed genus, which emerged as a cold specialist during the Ice Age, repeatedly adapted to rapidly alternating cold and warm periods. The researchers identified physiological adaptations to drought and salt stress that helped the plants develop high tolerance to cold.

Earliest evidence of humans decorating jewellery in Eurasia

A new study reveals the oldest known punctate ivory pendant found in Eurasia, dating back 41,500 years. The pendant provides direct evidence of Homo sapiens' use of decorative motifs in Poland.

Three new species of freshwater goby fish found in Japan and the Philippines

Three new species of freshwater goby fish have been identified in Japan and the Philippines, with distinct color patterns indicating separate lineages. The researchers believe that different color patterns play a crucial role in maintaining these separate lineages during courtship and mate selection.

Doubling the number of species of hand-standing spotted skunks

Researchers analyzed skunk DNA to determine the correct number of species, revealing seven species, including the previously recognized four. The revised family tree highlights the distinct evolutionary lineages of each species, making conservation efforts more effective.

New beautiful, dragon-like species of lizard discovered in the Tropical Andes

A new species of wood lizard, Enyalioides feiruzae, has been described from the premontane forest of the Huallaga river basin in Peru. The lizard features stunning color variations and is believed to have established as a separate species due to geographical separation from a similar lizard.

Newly identified mosasaur was fish-hunting monster

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified a new species of mosasaur, Ectenosaurus everhartorum, which lived 80 million years ago in western Kansas. The discovery marks only the second species in the genus Ectenosaurus and highlights the importance of continued research in the field.