First record of the Asian freshwater snail Sinotaia cf. quadrata (Benson, 1842) from Africa

The occurrence of the alien invasive freshwater snail Sinotaia cf. quadrata is reported for the first time in Africa. This species is a global invader of freshwater bodies as evidenced by its very recently reported discoveries in Europe and the Americas. We use DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis to confirm species identity and show low genetic divergence with haplotypes from Japan. The introduction of S. cf. quadrata to South Africa is undoubtedly recent, but its introduction pathways are currently uncertain. Unintentional introduction via the aquarium or aquaculture trades are a possibility, but this snail may have been introduced for human consumption. The S. cf. quadrata population is established in the artificial impoundment known as Zoo Lake in Johannesburg. Population dynamics indicate very high fecundity and densities of 1078 ind. m-2 & PLUSMN; 236 SE can be attained in disturbed and polluted environments. It has the potential to spread over the northern parts of South Africa, into the Kruger National Park and into Mozambique. Further monitoring is recommended in the region.