Mesumbethemis takamandensis gen. nov., spec. nov., a new genus and species of the Tetrathemistinae from Cameroon, with a key to the African genera of the subfamily (Anisoptera: Libellulidae)

The new sp. is described from a single 6 from Cameroon (South West Prov., Manyu, Takamanda Forest Reserve, Assam, 06°01’N, 09°18’E, alt.140 m, 20-11-1998). The holotype will be deposited in the collection of the Natural History Museum (London). The justification for the placement of the new genus in the Tetrathemistinae is presented. Because of the combination of characters of wing venation which it possesses, the new sp. does not fit into any existing genus and the new genus Mesumbethemis is erected to accommodate it. The unique shape of the anal appendages and the accessory genitalia can at this stage also be regarded as characteristic of this presently-monotypic genus. A key to the African Tetrathemistinae genera is provided.