Amphibiophilus versterae n.sp. and A. natalensis (Walton, 1935) (Nematoda: Trichostrongyloidea) from Rana spp. (Anura) of southern Africa

Abstract

Amphibiophilus versterae n.sp. and A. natalensis (Walton, 1935) are described. Amphibiophilus versterae can be distinguished from the three congeneric African species by its relatively short dorsal ray of the bursa. Amphibiophilus natalensis differs from A. acanthocirratus Skrjabin, 1916 in its relatively short rays 8 and from A. chabaudi Puylaert, 1967 in the morphology of the spicules, gubernaculum, and dorsal lobe of the bursa. The cephalic end and synlophe of fourth-stage larvae of A. natalensis is similar to that of Oswaldocruzia pipiens Walton, 1929 (Molineidae). Thus a relationship between the Amphibiophilidae and Molineidae is suggested. In Natal, A. natalensis and A. versterae occur as coparasites in Rana angolensis and R. fasciata. However, A. versterae occurs with a lower prevalence and intensity of infection.