A new branchipodid genus and species (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Anostraca) from South Africa

Abstract

Rhinobranchipus martensi gen. et sp. nov. (Anostraca: Branchipodidae) was collected from a shallow temporary pool in the surroundings of Grahamstown (Cape Province, South Africa) (33°18?S, 26°32?E). Rhinobranchipus shares partial fusion of the chitinized basal parts of the male antennae, the so-called clypeus, with other Branchipodidae. The new genus is distinguished from confamilial genera by the morphology of the basal part of the penes. The new species, known from its type locality only, should be considered endangered, if it has not already become extinct as a result of recent modifications of its habitat. Branchipodidae – morphology – taxonomy – thoracopods – endangered species – East Cape Province.