Scanning Electron Microscopy and First Molecular Data of Two Species of Lamproglena (Copepoda: Lernaeidae) from Labeo victorianus (Cyprinidae) and Clarias gariepinus (Clariidae) in Kenya

A parasitological study carried out in May 2022 and March 2023 the Nyando River of Lake Victoria Basin, Kenya, disclosed two parasitic lernaeid copepods: Lamproglena cleopatra Humes, 1957, from gills a cyprinid, Ningu Labeo victorianus Boulenger, 1901, endemic to drainage system, clariae Fryer, clariid, North African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822). The copepods were studied supplementary taxonomic information was presented using scanning electron micrographs genetic data. Scanning microscopy (SEM) provided on morphology L. cleopatra’s antennae, oral region, thoracic legs (2–5), furcal rami not previously reported. Analyses partial fragments 18S 28S rDNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) parasites showed them be distinct all other taxa retrieved GenBank. This presents new SEM provides first ribosomal (18S rDNA) mitochondrial (mtDNA) data for these parasite species. cox1 are 38 nominal species Lamproglena. Notably, also host record extends geographical this Kenya.