A New Species of Pachytriton from Anhui, China (Amphibia: Caudata: Salamandridae)

Abstract

A new species belonging to the genus Pachytriton is delineated based on four specimens obtained from the Qingliangfeng Nature Reserve, Huangshan, Anhui, China. The identification of this distinct species within the Southeast Chinese Hilly Area enhances the recognized biodiversity of Pachytriton and signifies unresolved interrelations among species in southeastern China. This new species can be distinguished from P. granulosus and P. feii through meticulous morphological and molecular examinations. The phylogenetic correlation was established utilizing the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2). The four recent specimens constitute a cohesive monophyletic clade with robust affirmation. The acknowledgment of this new species elevates the tally of documented Pachytriton species to 11.