Two new species of fairy shrimps (Anostraca: Branchipodidae, Streptocephalidae) from the Northern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa

Abstract

Abstract We describe two new species of fairy shrimp from the Northern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. Both species are from arid inland regions, where little survey work for crustaceans has been conducted. Branchipodopsis transversusn. sp. is separated from congeners by the unique form of the male second antennae, which bear a transverse anterior lobe on the anteromedial projection of the proximal antennomere. Streptocephalus valkyrien. sp. is unique among members of the genus in that its primary diagnostic character is the presence of a pronounced spiniform ‘horn’ on the posterolateral corner of the female’s head. The male antennal appendages are readily diagnosed by the large spines on the ‘palmar; region of the ‘hand.’