Steinernema beitlechemi n. sp., a new entomopathogenic nematode (Nematoda: Steinernematidae) from South Africa

Steinernema beitlechemi n. sp. is a new species of entomopathogenic nematode isolated from soil samples collected in Bethlehem, Free State province, South Africa. The infective juveniles of S. beitlechemi n. sp. are characterised by a body length of 696 (606-768) μm, position of nerve ring of 96 (86-105) μm from the head and lateral fields with six ridges ( i.e. , seven lines) in mid-body. First-generation males of S. beitlechemi n. sp. can be distinguished by a spicule length of 93 (88-100) μm and 12 pairs of genital papillae. First-generation females have a moderately protruding vulva and a rounded tail tip bearing one spine-like projection. The new species is further characterised by sequences of the ITS and partial 28S regions of the ribosomal DNA. Phylogenetic analyses show S. beitlechemi n. sp. as a member of a strongly supported monophyletic clade with three other African species: S. sacchari , S. cameroonense and S. nyetense .