Tropical rainforest patches perched on isolated granite mountains in northern Mozambique have yielded four new species of Sylvan Chameleons, according to a new study by Prof. Krystal A. Tolley and Dr. Werner Conradie, recently published in Vertebrate Zoology.
The new species have been named after the animal behavior scientist and conservationist Jane Goodall, the chemist Rosalind Franklin, and the concept of “vanishing”, honouring scientific pioneers while sounding an alarm about disappearing habitats. The research reveals that each “sky island” harbours its own, previously unknown chameleon species, and highlights the urgent need to conserve these fragile forest habitats.
These mountains rise sharply from the surrounding savanna, trapping clouds and rain and creating cool, moist refuges in an otherwise dry landscape This results in each forest being isolated, making them true ‘sky islands’, and because of this isolation, many of their species occur nowhere else on Earth.
says Prof. Tolley.
Why search these mountains?
Localities for the sky islands where Nadzikambia chameleons were sampled, superimposed over digital elevation layer, with the six species of Nadzikambia, including the newly described species. Credit to Tolley and Conradie, 2026.
Until the 2000s, most of northern Mozambique’s sky islands had been poorly surveyed, even compared with other remote parts of Africa. The team set out to investigate whether the isolated forests on each mountain hold unique reptile and amphibian species that evolved there in isolation. With tropical forests across Africa being rapidly cleared in favour of agriculture, the researchers were heavily motivated by a race against time – species could go extinct before they are even discovered.
How were the new species identified?
The team had to first carry out several different surveys of the remote mountains to assess and catalogue the different reptile and amphibian species present. Noting that there were populations of chameleons on each mountain, measurements and samples were taken. Back at the lab, the team used an approach called the General Lineage Species Concept.
This combines different lines of evidence to identify species. In this case, they sequenced four genes (DNA sequences) from Sylvan Chameleon populations from different mountains and compared the genetic data among these. This was then combined with another type of evidence, body features, to come up with a ‘balance of evidence’ as to whether each mountain has its own species.
Network of nuclear (RAG-1) alleles for Nadzikambia based on phased sequences. Alleles are colour coded according to the proportion of individuals per species having that allele. The sizes of the circles represent the frequency of that allele in the dataset (scaling of circles to left). All branches represent one mutation. Credit to Tolley and Conradie, 2026
Although the chameleons look very similar between different mountains, the DNA told a different story. A phylogeny – a type of family tree built from the genetic data – showed that individuals clustered strictly by mountain. This indicates that each sky island population has been separated for millions of years and does not interbreed with populations on neighbouring peaks.
The similar body shape across species reflects their shared adaptation to life in forest habitats, rather than them being the same species. According to Dr. Conradie “In the same way, African and Asian elephants both look like ‘elephants’ but are distinct species that have evolved similar body forms for similar lifestyles.”
Honouring scientists and a warning about loss
Nadzikambia goodallae male species from Mount Ribáuè. Photo credit to Prof. Krystal Tolley,
Behind each of the three names lies a deliberate choice. Nadzikambia goodallae, from Mount Ribáuè, honours Dr. Jane Goodall’s pioneering work on African chimpanzees that has transformed our understanding of animal behaviour and inspired global conservation efforts. This chameleon is endemic to the region.
Before Dr. Jane Goodall became a conservation icon, she spent decades in the forest observing how every species has a role to play in maintaining our fragile ecosystems. Naming this wonderfully unique Sylvan Chameleon for Jane is a fitting tribute to her advocacy and a reminder of the importance of protecting forest landscapes for all animals, including people.
The newly described Nadzikambia franklinae from Mount Namuli. Photo credit to Werner Conradie.
Nadzikambia franklinae, from Mount Namuli, recognises Rosalind Franklin, whose foundational work on DNA structure underpins the very genetic tools used to identify these species.
Nadzikambia evanescens from Mount Inago. Photo credit to Prof. Krystall Tolley.
The third species from Mount Inago is named Nadzikambia evanescens, meaning “vanishing”, to draw attention to its disappearing habitat and the many species worldwide that may be lost before they can be described.
The Chiperone sylvan chameleon (Nadzikambia nubila) from Mount Chiperone. Photo credit to Prof. Krystall Tolley.
The fourth species, The Chiperone sylvan chameleon (Nadzikambia nubila), was collected by a stream on Mount Chiperone and takes its name from the “Ciperoni” – the local term for the heavy, cloud-laden weather that brings orographic rainfall to the area. This persistent cloud cover sustains the mountain’s mid-elevation wet forest, and the epithet nubila derives from the Latin nubilus, meaning “cloudy”.
Community-led conservation is key
Intact forest habitat (top), and areas of forest destroyed by slash and burn (middle, bottom) on Mount Inago. Credit to Tolley and Conradie
The discoveries come at a time when tropical forests, especially in Africa, are being cleared at alarming rates. The small, isolated forests on Mozambique’s sky islands are particularly vulnerable. The study highlights that local community involvement can make a decisive difference.
On Mount Chiperone, the forest is considered sacred, and cultural values have helped protect both the habitat and its wildlife. Mount Mabu has benefited from more than a decade of community-based conservation.
Together, these two mountains hold the most intact forests surveyed in the study, showing that forest clearance is not an inevitable trade-off for local livelihoods when communities are empowered and supported, and their beliefs are in sync with conservation.
Original source:
Tolley K, Conradie W (2026) Sky Islands of Mozambique harbour cryptic species of chameleons: Description of four new species of sylvan chameleons (Squamata: Chamaeleonidae: Nadzikambia Tilbury, Tolley & Branch, 2006). Vertebrate Zoology 76: 207-246. https://doi.org/10.3897/vz.76.e178403
There is a Chinese saying that east or west, Guilin scenery is the best. Guilin and Chongqing, located in the western part of China, are famous for their many mountains and rivers. They also harbor unique flora and fauna, such as the scaly-sided merganser, a globally endangered species restricted to eastern Asia.
In 2023 and 2024, Dr. Yitong Ma from Nantong University, China, collected springtail specimens from the Huaping Nature Reserve in Guilin and the Yintiaoling Nature Reserve in Chongqing.
Springtails are the most common arthropods living in the soil – you can find them in your yard, in the flowerpot, or on the lawn,
he says.
“Although they are very small, usually 2-3 mm in length, their density can be amazing. As decomposers, they can break down the organic matter and promote material cycling, so they play an important key role in soil ecosystems.”
After checking the specimens from the two reserves under microscopes, Dr. Ma and his colleague from Nantong University, Xiaowei Qian, found rich biodiversity and about 80 different species of springtails. In a study published in the open-access journal ZooKeys, they described five new scaled species belonging to three genera of the springtail family Entomobryidae.
The genus Lepidodens contains five species, all found in China. The researchers find one new species, which is also the first species of the genus from the western part of China.
The new species of Lepidodens:L. maculata. Photo credit to Dr. Yitong Ma.
They also report the first sighting in China of the genus Lepidosira, which thrives best in Oceania. In Huaping Nature Reserve and Yintiaoling Nature Reserve, they found three new species of the genus.
One of the new Lepidosira species：L. cheni
One of the new Lepidosira species：L. guilinensis
One of the new Lepidosira species：L. montis
Among the fifty species of the genus Willowsia in the world, about 30 species have been reported from China. However, the authors concluded this genus is not well represented in the two reserves, and only found one new species in Chongqing.
The new Willowsia species：W. zhangi. Photo credito to Dr. Yitong Ma
In the future, the researchers will further study those specimens collected from the two reserves.
Given the subtropical monsoon climate, mountainous topography and little human disturbance of the reserves, it is likely that more new species will be found,
A new study published in Nature Conservation reveals that threatened amphibian species are being sold under incorrect names in online amphibian trade marketplaces.
When we first began this work, our original aim was to study the evolutionary history and divergence time of the genus Hoplobatrachus using genetic data. The traded specimens we collected were intended to support this phylogenetic analysis, not to investigate the legality of the amphibian trade. However, during samples verification, we found that some frogs sold as Quasipaa were genetically Hoplobatrachus, highlighting mismatch between trade labels and actual species identity.
This discovery led us to take a closer look at species identification in amphibian trade. Like many researchers in wildlife biology, we initially assumed that most trade labels were generally reliable, even if not perfect. What we found turned out to be more complicated and the results have been published in the open-access journal Nature Conservation.
A simple verification revealed unexpected results
Left: Quasipaa spinosa, right: Hoplobatrachuschinensis, photos by Amaël Borzée, via iNaturalist (https://www.inaturalist.org/), licensed under CC BY-NC.
Our study focused on frogs traded under the name Hoplobatrachus chinensis, a species commonly recorded in commercial markets. To verify their identity, we used genetic tools and the results were clear: specimens labelled as Chinese edible frogs (Hoplobatrachus chinensis) were in fact Chinese spiny frogs (Quasipaa spinosa), a different species entirely and one that is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. At first glance, this might appear to be a minor taxonomic issue. However, it raises an important question: how reliable is species identification in wildlife trade once animals enter real-world commercial systems?
Why do these mistakes happen?
One of the main challenges in amphibian trade is that many species are very similar in appearance. Even for experienced handlers, distinguishing between certain species based on morphology alone can be extremely difficult. In most trade contexts, identification is based solely on external characteristics, without genetic confirmation. This creates room for both unintentional misidentification and potential substitution errors. Once specimens move through multiple steps in complex supply chains, their original identity may become increasingly uncertain.
Is this an isolated case?
Based on our findings, we suspect this is not an isolated issue. Instead, our results likely represent only the “tip of the iceberg.” Amphibians are traded in large numbers, often through complex and poorly traceable supply chains. In such systems, even small identification errors can accumulate and go unnoticed. Because genetic verification is rarely applied in routine monitoring, similar cases may be more widespread than currently documented.
Why does it matter?
Four Quasipaaspinosa purchased online under the false visual of Hoplobatrachuschinensis, a farmed species. Panels correspond to individual specimens that were bought. Credit to Zhang et al., 2026
At first, species misidentification may seem like a technical detail. However, it has direct consequences for conservation and wildlife trade regulation. If traded individuals are incorrectly identified, trade data may not accurately reflect which species are being exploited. This can lead to biased assessments of population pressure and potentially mask risks for threatened species. In other words, what is recorded in trade databases may not always match biological reality.
What can be done?
One of the key implications of our study is the importance of incorporating molecular tools into wildlife trade monitoring. DNA-based identification provides a reliable way to confirm species identity, particularly in cases where morphology alone is insufficient. While it may not be feasible to genetically test every traded individual, targeted or random sampling could significantly improve the accuracy and transparency of trade data.
A broader perspective
Beyond amphibians, our findings highlight a more general issue in wildlife trade: hidden uncertainty in species identification can quietly distort our understanding of biodiversity exploitation. Improving traceability and verification is therefore not just a technical improvement, but an essential step toward more effective conservation decision-making.
Original source:
Zhang, X., Borzée, A., Gill, S., & Othman, S. N. (2026). Hidden or inadvertent illegal amphibian trade? Genetic analyses reveal Quasipaa spinosa misidentified as Hoplobatrachus chinensis in the trade. Nature Conservation, 63, 247-257. DOI: 10.3897/natureconservation.63.183849
Marine researchers have identified a vibrant new species of deep-sea precious coral off the coast of Kochi Prefecture, Japan. The new species, named Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum, was described by Tatsuki Koido from the Kuroshio Biological Research Foundation and published in the open-access journal ZooKeys.
The specimen was originally brought to the surface after being incidentally hooked at a depth of approximately 550 metres off Cape Ashizuri during longline fishing operations for alfonsino fish. Recognising its unique characteristics, the collector deposited the specimens at the Kuroshio Biological Research Foundation for further study.
Through microscopic examination of the coral’s tiny skeletal structures (called sclerites) combined with advanced multi-gene DNA analysis, the coral was confirmed to be entirely new to science, marking the first time the deep-sea genus Hemicorallium has ever been reported off Kochi Prefecture.
Scanning electron micrograph of sclerites of Hemicoralliumosmanthogemmum sp. nov. Image credit: Tatsuki Koido.
Resembling Sweet Olive Buds: The Etymology
The scientific name of the new species, Hemicorallium osmanthogemmum, has a beautiful meaning rooted in botany. The specific name is derived from Osmanthus (the plant genus containing the sweet olive tree) and the Latin word gemma, meaning “bud”. This name highlights a distinct physical trait of the coral: its large polyp mounds are tightly clustered together at the very tips of its branches, mirroring the appearance of flower buds on a sweet olive tree.
Reflecting this resemblance, the coral has been given the new Japanese common name Kinmokusei-mizo-sango, which translates to “sweet olive groove-coral”. In life, the coral features a striking contrast of colours; its outer living tissue is a vibrant orange, while its solid internal skeletal axis is a stunning shade of pink.
The Cultural and Environmental Value of Precious Corals
Precious corals, which primarily belong to the family Coralliidae, have been highly valued by humans for centuries. Because they possess solid inner skeletons and vivid natural colouration, they are traditionally sought after globally for crafting fine jewellery and ornaments.
In recent years, however, the global perspective has shifted significantly. Instead of viewing precious corals solely through the lens of resource consumption, modern marine science is focused heavily on developing innovative methods for propagation and active population replenishment.
Japan has a particularly deep history in this field; domestic scientific study of precious corals began in the early 20th century, and discussions regarding resource conservation through coral release programmes date back more than one hundred years, showing a long-standing cultural and scientific dedication to the sustainable management of the precious coral industry.
Hemicoralliumosmanthogemmum sp. nov. ‘Front’’ and ‘‘back’’ of colony. Image credit: Tatsuki Koido.
Why This Discovery Matters
Corals in the genus Hemicorallium live in particularly deep waters where environmental sampling is extremely challenging, therefore opportunities to study them are rare. Marine biologists believe that many more undiscovered species are still hidden across these deep seafloors.
Original Study:
Koido T (2026) A new species of Hemicorallium (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Coralliidae), along with a revised identification key to species of the genus. ZooKeys 1277: 339-354. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1277.184620
For more articles on zoology, visit the ZooKeys website and follow the journal on BlueSky and Facebook.
A 23-year camera-trap study across Bolivia & Peru recorded 594 events of the elusive short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis), shedding light on its ecological behaviour and relative abundance.
For decades, the short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) has been considered one of the least-known carnivores in Latin America, and potentially one of the least-known canids in the world. Because of its highly secretive nature, acute hearing, and strong sense of smell, this cryptic creature has successfully avoided people, leaving biologists with very few direct sightings in the wild. However, a new study published in the open-access journal Neotropical Biology and Conservation now offers insights into the life of this mysterious Amazonian predator.
The Power of Remote Sensing
Photo of the short-eared dog caught on a camera trap from Bolivia. Credit to G. Ayala & M.E Viscarra.
According to the study‘s lead author Robert Wallace, the turning point in their understanding of the ghost dog came with the advent of remote sensing. When researchers first started capturing pictures of the species with camera traps back in 2001, they knew they were onto something special and envisioned a comprehensive publication.
Over the span of nearly 25 years, scientists systematized 500 distributional records across Bolivia and conducted 34 intensive camera-trap surveys. These surveys took place across the lowland regions of Bolivia and Peru, primarily in the Greater Madidi-Tambopata and Llanos de Moxos Biocultural Landscapes.
Accumulating 594 independent photographic events, this monumental effort represents the largest collection of confirmed short-eared dog records anywhere within the species’ distribution. The lead author highlighted that this research is a:
Wonderful example of how conservation technology and remote sensing – in this case the intensive use of camera traps – can provide substantial data on one of the least known species of the Amazonian rainforests.
Unveiling the Ghost
Short-eared dog from a trap camera in Bolivia. Credit to G. Ayala & M.E Viscarra.
What exactly does this ghost dog look like? The camera traps revealed a unique physical profile: a dark, dense coat ranging from blackish gray to reddish-brown, a large head with very small and rounded ears, short legs, and a long, bushy tail. Intriguingly, the species even boasts partially webbed paws, a trait that is completely unique among Amazonian canids.
The biggest surprise, however, wasn’t its appearance.
The most surprising aspect of the results was that despite being an almost mythical beast, short-eared dogs are much more abundant than we had imagined.
noted the researchers.
While they are by no means a common species, their camera-trap capture rates and an estimated density of 15 individuals per 100 square kilometers suggest they are not as rare as scientists once feared. The results allowed for the researchers to determine that the short-eared dogs are more abundant than larger carnivores like jaguars, though less abundant than medium-sized carnivores like ocelots. The study also highlighted a small aspect of these canids’ behavioral ecology: they are primarily diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, with their activity peaking between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
A Forest Specialist in Need of Protection
So, where are these ghost dogs hiding? The data points to intact forests. The short-eared dog is a true forest specialist, showing a strong preference for terra firme – upland forests away from rivers. This specialized, dense habitat requirement is a primary reason for the species’ reduced visibility to humans.
Because their survival is intricately tied to continuous, intact forest cover, the conservation of the short-eared dog depends heavily on the creation and effective management of protected areas. The study found that the relative abundance of short-eared dogs was noticeably higher in national protected areas and Indigenous territories that overlap with these protected zones, compared to unprotected areas.
The most important management strategy is the protection of Amazonian forest canopy for which the creation and effective management of protected areas is the most important element, in combination with the sustainable management of Indigenous territories.
the researchers explained.
While we now know that this elusive canid is secretly thriving in the deep forests of Bolivia and Peru, its future relies entirely on our ability to protect its home.
Original source:
Wallace RB, Ayala G, Viscarra M, Porcel Z (2026) Unveiling the ghost: short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) distribution, activity patterns, habitat use, relative abundance, and occupancy in Bolivia. Neotropical Biology and Conservation 21(1): 49-66. https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.21.e183324
The crowd is roaring, the floodlights are blinding, and the pitch is absolutely pristine. Football fans and nature enthusiasts, welcome to our pre-match build-up!
We are just days away from the kickoff of the biggest show on Earth. That’s right, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is commencing soon, and it is already breaking all the records. This year, we are looking at a historic 23rd edition of the tournament, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026. For the first time in history, three powerhouse nations – the United States, Mexico, and Canada – are teaming up to host across 16 spectacular cities.
But hold onto your hats, because at Pensoft, we are launching our very own tournament to run right alongside the World Cup. While the world’s best footballers are battling it out on the grass, we are hosting an equally fierce competition.
We’ve scouted our journals, drafted the top talent, and placed different incredible species into a head-to-head knockout tournament.
This biodiversity battle will rage throughout the World Cup season, with the grand finale taking place on the same week as the final. But who will lift the ultimate trophy of public affection? Only you can decide…
The Match Schedule: How to play your part
We need you, the fans, to act as the referee! Here is how the tournament layout looks:
Thursday kickoff: Every Thursday, head over to our Instagram page where the latest head-to-head match will go live on our stories. You’ll have 24 hours to cast your vote in our poll for the species you want to win.
Monday post-match analysis: Every Monday, we will announce who won their corresponding match on our Instagram Story.
Consider this your ultimate pre-match scouting report. While you’re backing your favorite species to lift the trophy, you’ll also get the inside track on some of the most fascinating species described in our journals.
Tournament disclaimer
Before we kick-off, it is noteworthy that this tournament is purely for entertainment and a bit of good-natured fun. Narrowing down our roster to just 16 species was tough and we acknowledge that we’ve left some spectacular creatures on the bench.
To ensure total fairness and transparency, our selection was based on the latest 2026 Altmetric data. This system tracks online mentions across news media, blogs, and social networks for articles published in Pensoft journals from 2010 onward.
We did our best to diversify the list as much as possible in terms of taxonomic groups. However, due to the visual-centric nature of social media, we gave preference to immediately attractive species.
Are you ready for the whistle?
Make sure you are following our Instagram page so you don’t miss out!
After 20 years without any visual proof, photos now published in the Neotropical Biology and Conservation journal confirm the survival of the cryptic Cozumel dwarf fox.
We at Pensoft Publishers, asked Travis Bayer, the founder of Pathos Wildlife, several questions about his work with one of the world’s most mysterious carnivores, namely the Cozumel Dwarf Fox from Cozumel Island, Mexico.
In this Q&A, Travis takes us behind the scenes of his study to discuss what first motivated him to track this cryptic species, what they currently know of its fragile conservation status, and the urgent measures needed to protect it from extinction.
Pensoft (P): What motivated your and your team to conduct research?
Travis Bayer (TB): Cozumel sits along the Great Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef system on Earth and one of the world’s most renowned scuba diving destinations. I first visited the island back in early 2023 to experience it for myself. At the core of my career as a biologist and conservationist is a lifelong love and fascination for animals, which is why I always look up the native wildlife and try to see them wherever I go.
That is when I had found out about Cozumel’s incredible level of endemism, higher than any other island in Mexico. Above its biodiverse waters lie terrestrial ecosystems hosting dozens of species and subspecies found nowhere else on Earth. Even more fascinating is three of them being dwarfed mammalian carnivores: the pygmy raccoon (Procyon pygmaeus), dwarf coati (Nasua nelsoni), and Cozumel fox (Urocyon sp.).
This is quite unusual given carnivores are generally less likely to become dwarfed or persist on small, resource-limited islands because of their space and energy requirements. Yet on Cozumel, this pattern occurs across multiple species.
I naively thought I might encounter the fox if I searched hard enough, but I ultimately returned home without seeing one. However, the question of whether they still persisted never really left my mind.
I turned my curiosity into an investigation, scouring scientific literature for every recorded mention of the Cozumel fox. The only physical evidence of its existence came from subfossil bones excavated from Mayan archaeological sites. These 500-to-1,500-year-old adult bones were 60-80% smaller than mainland foxes, suggesting they have been evolving in isolation for at least 5,000 to 13,000 years. This warrants a distinct species designation, yet without modern evidence, the Cozumel fox remains scientifically undescribed and legally unprotected.
The consensus of their critically endangered or possibly extinct status comes from generalized surveys documenting the other carnivores, which failed to detect the fox. While no field study has everdetected the fox, I found that none have ever targeted them specifically.
Previous camera trap studies used general baits like sardines and cat food, which heavily attract a broad range of species such as the omnivorous raccoons and coatis. Extremely rare animals also often require broader coverage, longer deployment times, and targeted placement in remote habitat, making study design crucially important. This is when I decided to turn my interest into action, and began planning the first-ever systematic, targeted survey in search of the Cozumel fox.
A scenic view of Laguna Colombia State Reserve, one of the largest remaining protected natural areas on Cozumel. The reserve is the site of historical Cozumel fox sightings recorded in 1995 and 2001, as well as the area where the first photographic evidence of the species was captured by author Rafael Chacón. As a result, it is currently considered some of the most likely remaining habitat for the Cozumel fox.
Shortly after, the ultimate driving force for our motivation surfaced: in September 2023, the first-ever photographs of a living Cozumel fox were uploaded to iNaturalist by Rafael Chacón, Director of Conservation and Environmental Education for La Fundación de Parques y Museos de Cozumel (FPMC). For a species many believed extinct, seeing those images was surreal. It proved the fox was still out there, and the urgency to protect it skyrocketed.
The first photograph ever captured of a Cozumel fox (Urocyon sp.), uploaded to iNaturalist in September, 2023. For a species long thought to be possibly extinct or at best extremely rare, this record provided the first visual confirmation that the fox was still persisting on the island. Credit to Rafael Chacón.
We established a partnership to launch a dedicated camera trap survey. When I asked Rafael what motivated him, he told me:
“Photographing the Cozumel gray fox was a very special moment because it represents one of the island’s unique endemic species. Capturing these images helps create awareness about its presence and the importance of protecting its habitat. What motivates me to continue is the responsibility to help future generations understand and value Cozumel’s biodiversity.”
Formally publishing these photographs in Neotropical Biology and Conservation changed this from an anecdotal sighting into a permanent scientific record. Species cannot be protected if their existence remains contested or overlooked. We hope this work lays the foundation for future research, conservation planning, and official taxonomic recognition.
Full-body photograph of adult male Cozumel fox following release in Laguna Colombia State Reserve. Photo credit to Rafael Chacón.
Side profile of the Cozumel fox. Photo credit to Rafael Chacón.
Full-body photograph of adult male Cozumel fox following release in Laguna Colombia State Reserve. Photo credit to Rafael Chacón.
P: You describe the species’ conservation status as “likely critical.” What are the biggest threats to the Cozumel fox today?
TB: The biggest challenge is that we still know almost nothing about its population size, distribution, or ecology. That uncertainty makes effective conservation incredibly difficult, and the lack of a formal taxonomic description limits our ability to implement legal protections.
Spatial distribution of dwarf fox records across land use and vegetation types on Cozumel. The red dot outlined in black indicates the location where the fox was photographed in September 2023. White stars denote historical dwarf fox sightings from 1984 and 1985 (Cuarón et al. 2004), and the black stars indicate recent sightings observed by the authors (R. Chacón, unpublished data 2025; Bayer and McGreal, unpublished data 2026). Credit to Bayer et al., 2026.
However, based on what we know about island ecosystems, several major threats stand out:
Habitat Loss & Fragmentation: Rapid development driven by tourism, cruise ship infrastructure, and expanding hotels places immense pressure on remaining natural habitats.
The Coastal Highway: Cozumel has one major highway looping the island that cuts directly through critical transition zones between coastal and interior habitats. Wildlife-vehicle collisions occur at alarming rates. This poses a massive threat to carnivores who need to move freely to maintain genetic connectivity, find resources, and adapt to seasonal water availability.
Introduced & Invasive Species: Free-ranging domestic dogs compete for resources and introduce deadly disease risks to a small, isolated population. Concurrently, invasive predators like boa constrictors, margays, and ocelots create intense pressure through competition and direct predation. The growing abundance of introduced margays and ocelots is a relatively recent, alarming concern.
Climate Change & Rarity: As a low-lying Caribbean island, Cozumel is highly vulnerable to intensifying hurricanes and storm surges. Because the fox population is already so small, they are inherently vulnerable to genetic bottlenecks and random catastrophic events.
P: What conservation measures could be undertaken to help protect the species?
TB: The most urgent priority is establishing a long-term research and monitoring program focused specifically on the fox. Before we can implement meaningful protections, we must understand exactly where they survive, how many are left, and what habitats they depend on.
A deceased dwarf coati (Nasua nelsoni), one of Cozumel’s three endemic carnivores, found along the coastal highway after a vehicle collision. As this road cuts through critical habitat transitions, wildlife-vehicle collisions remain a major conservation concern, particularly for species that depend on landscape connectivity between coastal and interior ecosystems.
To achieve these goals, we must prioritize mitigating road mortality by installing dynamic speed feedback signs to slow highway traffic and improve habitat connectivity. Additionally, we need to manage invasive and domestic animals through responsible pet ownership, sterilization programs, and the removal or relocation of invasive predators like margays to minimize disease and predation risks. Finally, because conservation is a collective responsibility, we must foster robust community involvement and public awareness to educate residents and visitors about the Cozumel fox, thereby securing the local support and cooperation vital for these measures to succeed.
Captured during the most recent camera trap deployment on Cozumel, this image documents a Margay (Leopardus wiedii), an introduced carnivore on the island. Its presence adds to growing concerns about non-native and expanding predator populations, and their potential to intensify competition and predate on Cozumel’s endemic wildlife.
P: Are there any other comments or insights from this research that you think might be of particular importance to the broader public?
TB: One of the most important takeaways from this research is that species can quietly disappear without the world even realizing they are gone. It had been over 20 years since the last anecdotal report of the fox, and almost 30 years since the last confirmed sighting. The Cozumel fox likely represents an ancient island lineage that has evolved in isolation for thousands of years, yet until recently there was no photographic evidence that it was even still alive.
“Their life depends on you. Drive with caution.” A message displayed on author Rafael Chacón’s vehicle, serving as a reminder that Cozumel’s wildlife shares the same roads. Vehicle collisions remain a significant source of mortality on the island, making public awareness a key part of conservation efforts.
We often think extinction is something dramatic and obvious, but in reality it can happen gradually and silently, especially for rare species living in remote or understudied habitats. By the time enough data exists to confirm a severe decline, it may already be too late. That is part of what makes documentation like Rafael’s photos so important. It should serve as a reminder of how much biodiversity can still remain overlooked, even in places visited by millions of people every year.
Close up photo of the Cozumel fox. Photo credit to Rafael Chacón.
The rediscovery of the fox isn’t a conservation success story yet, but it is a second chance.
In collaboration with Pathos Wildlife and the FPMC, we are currently conducting one of the largest camera trap surveys ever done on the island. Ultimately, we hope this work moves the Cozumel fox from a little-known, uncertain presence to a protected, well-understood key part of Cozumel’s ecosystems. This project demonstrates that conservation is often most urgent when certainty is lowest, and that uncertainty itself should be our call to action.
We are incredibly grateful to Travis Bayer for giving us a closer look at his and his team’s vital conservation work on the island. To read the formal scientific record and documentation of these historic sightings, check out the recently published paper in Neotropical Biology and Conservation.
Citation:
Bayer TD, McGreal MA, Chacón D. AR (2026) First photographic evidence of an insular dwarf fox (Urocyon sp.) on the island of Cozumel, Mexico. Neotropical Biology and Conservation 21(2): 123-129. https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.21.e187967
The newly described aquatic insects, belonging to the genus Hydropsyche, help close substantial knowledge gaps regarding the biodiversity of Azerbaijan, Iran, and Türkiye. Caddisflies (order Trichoptera) are vital components of freshwater ecosystems, and the Hydropsyche genus is among the most diverse and ecologically important, comprising more than 8% of all Trichoptera species recorded in the Western Palaearctic region.
The Two New Caddisfly Species
Hydropsyche fitesa, credit to Dr. Halil Ibrahimi
Hydropsyche hindrajab, credit to Dr. Halil Ibrahimi
Both new species were found in habitats characterized by stone, pebble, and fine sediments with sparse riparian vegetation. Hydropsyche fitesa was discovered in Iran, specifically near the Shalmash Waterfalls on the Chamyaman River, a tributary originating in the Zagros Mountains; the epithet fitesa honors the first author’s wife, in recognition of her lifelong support of caddisfly research. Hydropsyche hindrajab was found across multiple river localities in Azerbaijan, Iran, and Türkiye, and was named in honor of Hind Rajab, a five-year-old girl whose life was lost amid the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Authored by Halil Ibrahimi (University of Prishtina, Kosovo) and Dora Hlebec (University of Zagreb, Croatia), the study highlights the challenges of identifying morphologically similar species. Because both new insects belong to the Hydropsyche guttata species cluster, a group whose members look strikingly alike, the team employed an integrative taxonomic approach.
By combining traditional morphological examination with advanced DNA analysis (specifically, sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, or COI gene), the researchers confirmed that H. hindrajab represents a distinct evolutionary lineage. H. fitesa was distinguished based on unique morphological differences in its physical structure compared to its closest relatives.
Future Explorations
Distribution of Hydropsychehindrajab sp. nov. (red squares), Hydropsychefitesa sp. nov. (green square), Hydropsychesciligra (yellow squares) and Hydropsychetigrata (green squares), based on data used for the current study. Credit to Ibrahimi and Hlebec, 2026.
The discovery underscores how much of the region’s aquatic life remains undocumented. The authors note that the type localities in West Azerbaijan Province, Iran, are known for harboring rare aquatic insects, and they believe the area likely holds additional undescribed species yet to be found. Currently, 23 Hydropsyche species are known in Iran, 67 in Türkiye, and 12 in Azerbaijan, but the potential for new discoveries remains high.
Original study:
Ibrahimi H, Hlebec D (2026) Two new species of the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 (Trichoptera, Hydropsychidae) from the Middle East and Caucasus ecoregions. Biodiversity Data Journal 14: e191076. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e191076
A new study published in the open-access Biodiversity Data Journal suggests that spider webs – particularly those incorporating environmental debris – can serve as natural, non-destructive collectors of fungal material in agricultural ecosystems. The findings show that viable fungi can be recovered from these structures, including lineages that may represent previously undocumented diversity.
“Spider webs are often overlooked structures in the environment, yet they can function as natural collectors of biological material. Our findings suggest that they can be used as a complementary approach to access microbial communities without disturbing the surrounding ecosystem.”
Thanakron Into (Student at Thammasat University)
Researchers from Thammasat University and the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Thailand, investigated whether the adhesive and particle-trapping properties of spider silk could be used to capture and culture fungi associated with airborne and environmental particles. Unlike DNA-based methods, which detect genetic material regardless of viability, this approach allows for the recovery of living organisms that can be further studied.
The study focused on tropical rice fields, using webs of the orb-weaving spider Cyclosa mulmeinensis, a species known for constructing distinctive “trashline” decorations – linear accumulations of plant fragments, insect remains, and other debris within the web. These structures can intercept a variety of particles, some of which may carry fungal propagules.
Representative orb webs of Cyclosamulmeinensis illustrating web architecture and debris decoration. Image credit: Thanakron Into et al.
Webs were collected from rice-field embankments in Pathum Thani, Nakhon Nayok, and Phetchaburi provinces using sterile techniques. In the laboratory, material retained on the silk was gently removed and cultured, yielding 112 viable fungal isolates. These isolates were grouped into 23 taxa across six genera, including Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Talaromyces.
“We were particularly surprised that many of the fungi recovered from the webs remained viable and could be cultured. This enables further investigation beyond presence or absence, including their biological characteristics.”
Thanakron Into
Locations of paddy fields where Cyclosamulmeinensis spider webs were collected in Thailand (left). Composition of culturable fungal taxa across genera in individual sampled webs, expressed as the number of taxa recovered per web (right). Image credit: Thanakron Into et al.
Some genetic lineages – particularly within Cladosporium and Talaromyces – did not match currently described species in available databases, indicating that additional, undocumented diversity may be present in these systems.
Conventional approaches to fungal monitoring typically rely on soil, air, or plant sampling, or on molecular methods that may not distinguish between living and non-living material. In this context, spider webs may provide a useful supplementary sampling surface for capturing biologically relevant particles.
Because spider webs are naturally maintained and, in some species, periodically rebuilt, this method can be applied with minimal disturbance to both the organisms and their environment. Importantly, the spiders themselves were not harmed during sampling, as only small sections of the web were collected.
“The ability to recover living fungi from these naturally occurring structures adds a practical dimension to biodiversity studies. It provides a way to link environmental sampling with downstream biological work.”
Thanakron Into
The idea that something as familiar as a spider web could quietly capture a hidden layer of biodiversity highlights how much of the natural world remains overlooked in plain sight.
While further work is needed to evaluate how broadly this approach can be applied, the study demonstrates the potential of spider webs as an additional tool for exploring microbial diversity in agricultural landscapes.
Diagram displaying an overview of the study. Image credit: Booppa Petcharad.
Original source:
Into T, Petcharad B, Boonyuen N, Chanklan R, Pannanusorn S, Mongkolsamrit S, Kobmoo N, Nuankaew S, Kwanthong P (2026) Spider webs as reservoirs of culturable fungal diversity: evidence from orb-weaving Cyclosa mulmeinensis spider in Thai rice agroecosystems. Biodiversity Data Journal 14: e187035. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e187035
Despite the intensity of modern exploration, the eastern Mediterranean continues to yield unexpected discoveries. On the small Greek island of Kastellorizo, researchers have documented a previously unknown cave cricket thriving within a network of man-made tunnels.
The species, named Dolichopoda balrogi, was described by researchers from Greece and published in the open-access Journal of Orthoptera Research. This discovery highlights how even small and seemingly ordinary habitats can shelter unique and previously unknown life.
Individuals of the newly discovered Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. in the artificial tunnel of Kastellorizo on 17 October 2025 – Male individual. Photo credit: Konstantinos Kalaentzis.
Juvenile. Photo credit: Konstantinos Kalaentzis.
A mysterious cricket in underground tunnels
The new species belongs to the genus Dolichopoda, a group of cave crickets that inhabit dark, humid environments such as caves, crevices, and underground spaces across southern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean. These insects are well known to evolutionary biologists because their isolated populations often evolve into distinct species on islands or in separate cave systems.
On the easternmost Greek island of Kastellorizo, researchers surveyed an artificial tunnel that serves as the island’s sole accessible land cave. To their surprise, they encountered a population of cave crickets bearing characteristics of the cave-dwelling genus Dolichopoda.
Detailed morphological and molecular study confirmed that the specimens represented a species new to science.
Artificial tunnel of Kastellorizo. Photo credit: Konstantinos Kalaentzis.
Why “balrogi”?
The species name balrogi was inspired by the Balrog, a legendary fire-demon from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. In Tolkien’s story, the Balrog is an ancient creature hidden deep beneath the mountains, emerging from darkness. Its discovery is a fitting parallel; the cricket’s preference for deep, dark tunnel systems kept it outside the known record for decades.
The name also alludes to the circumstances of discovery of the species, which was found exclusively in a man-made tunnel. In Tolkien’s narrative, the Balrog is revealed only after the Dwarves “delved too deep”; similarly, Dolichopoda balrogi was discovered on Kastellorizo due to anthropogenic excavation on Mount Vigla, as the island lacks accessible caves. The epithet thus symbolically links deep excavation with the revelation of hidden subterranean fauna.
Fortunately, unlike Tolkien’s fearsome creature, Dolichopoda balrogi is harmless – although equally well adapted to life in darkness.
Hidden biodiversity in unexpected places
Kastellorizo is a very small island, covering only about 9 square kilometers. Yet its position in the eastern Mediterranean between Asia and Europe makes it an important biogeographic hotspot.
The discovery of D. balrogi demonstrates that even small islands can host unique endemic species. It also suggests that artificial underground environments, such as tunnels and abandoned infrastructure, can function as refuges for specialised cave-dwelling organisms.
“These findings remind us that biodiversity discoveries are not limited to remote tropical forests or deep oceans. Even familiar landscapes and human-made structures can harbour species that have remained unnoticed.”
Konstantinos Kalaentzis
Protecting small and fragile ecosystems
Cave-adapted organisms like Dolichopoda crickets often have very restricted distributions, sometimes occurring in only a single cave or underground system. Because of this, they can be particularly vulnerable to habitat disturbance. The authors suggest that documenting and understanding these hidden species is an important first step toward their conservation.
Bayesian inference phylogenetic tree based on mitochondrial COI sequences of Dolichopoda species. Image credit: Konstantinos Kalaentzis.
As research continues across the Mediterranean, the researchers note that the countless Greek islands – many still poorly explored biologically – are likely to hold many more hidden biodiversity treasures awaiting discovery.
Cover image:
Newly discovered Dolichopodabalrogisp. nov. in the artificial tunnel of Kastellorizo on 17 October 2025 – Female individual. Photo credit: Konstantinos Kalaentzis.
Original source:
Kalaentzis K, Alexiou S, Christopoulos A, Minoudi S, Koutsogiannopoulos D, Kotselis C, Triantafyllidis A (2026) Delving too deep: Morphological and molecular description of the cave-dwelling Dolichopoda balrogi sp. nov. (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) from Kastellorizo Island, Greece. Journal of Orthoptera Research 35(2): 259-266. https://doi.org/10.3897/jor.35.187943
