Description of a new species of Potamonautes MacLeay, 1838, from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa

Researchers have identified and described a new species of freshwater crab, Potamonautesisimangaliso, from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa. This discovery was made through genetic analysis, revealing a 7.4-7.8% divergence in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from its closest relative, Potamonauteslividus. The new species is distinguished by unique carapace characteristics, coloration, and size, as well as its habitat preference for oxygen-poor, ephemeral pans—a stark contrast to the surface water-dependent P. lividus. The study also provides an updated identification key for South African Potamonautes species, aiding in future taxonomic research.

Peer, N., Perissinotto, R., Gouws, G., & Miranda, N. A. F. (2015). Description of a new species of Potamonautes MacLeay, 1838, from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. ZooKeys, 503, 23–43. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.503.9532