Diplommatinidae is a family of terrestrial caenogastropod snails that shows extensive species diversity and endemic radiation within the Palau (Belau) Islands. In this paper, we revised the taxonomy of Palauan endemic diplommatinids based on the comparative morphology of shell, operculum, radula, and genitalia. Although the generic classification of Palauan diplommatinids has been confusing, th...

A new shallow water scleractinian coral species, Echinophyllia tarae sp. n., is described from the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is characterized by an encrusting corallum, a few large and highly variable corallites with protruding walls, and distinctive costosepta. This coral was observed in muddy environments where several colonies showed partial mortality and re-growth. The new speci...

S-phase cells in intact animals of the coelenterate species Eirene viridula, Hydractinia echinata, Hydra attenuata, and Hydra magnipapillata incorporate the thymidine analogue bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) into newly synthesized DNA. BrdU-labelled nuclei divide and cells appear to undergo normal differentiation. Whole-mount preparations and macerated tissues were screened for S-phase cells by means ...

The hardwood of Caesalpinia echinata Lam. (brazilwood, Pernambuco, ibirapitanga) is currently the most profitable material used for violin bow due to the unique vibrational properties and dimensional stability. Although this species is resistant to the wood decay caused by termites and rot fungi, an experimental plantation in Southeastern Brazil has been attacked by the ambrosia beetle Platypus...

Cortaderia (Poaceae; Danthonioideae) is a medium-sized genus of C3 tussock grasses, widespread in the temperate to tropic-alpine regions of South America. It is particularly important in the subalpine and alpine zones of the Andes. We revised the classification of the genus, and recognize 17 species grouped into five informal groups. We describe one new species, Cortaderia echinata H.P.Linder, ...