Tetrapetalonema (T.) colombiensis sp. n. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) from Colombian primates.

ABSTRACT

Tetrapetalonema (T.) colombiensis sp. n., a filarial nematode from the subcutaneous and intermuscular connective tissues of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) and tufted ringtail monkeys (Cebus apella) from central Colombia is described. Tetrapetalonema colombiensis is a very small species (male 8 mm, females 11-21 mm), and within the subgenus most closely resembles T. panamensis and T. saimiri in dimensions and in general appearance. It can be distinguished from these species by the following major features smoothly rounded profile of the anterior extremity; single pair of lateral caudal petals in the male; vagina vera directed immediately posteriad in the female; and a large (295-335 by 4.3-6.7 micron) microfilaria that assumes a gently curved attitude in 2% aqueous formalin preparations (Knott's technique), and which has a conspicuous inner body.