Anilocra sp. Leach, 1818

Anilocra are external parasites of fish which attach themselves to their hosts with sharp claws. Species in the genus can be distinguished from Nerocila orbignyi by their short coxal plates, the posterolateral angles of pereonites 2-6 not being extended, and by the head narrowing at the front to form a projection between the antennae.

Although two species of Anilocra have been recorded in the north-east Atlantic, A. frontalis and A. physodes, specimens gathered in British waters show mixed characteristics and have not yet been assignable to species (Horton & Baillie 2019). Identification to species is thus not possible even with good views and photographs, and records should be submitted only as Anilocra genus when specimens have not been retained and examined by an expert. Females up to 50 mm (A. physodes) and 35 mm (A. frontalis).