The genus Bedfordiella (Mallophaga: Philopteridae) and a note on the lice from the Kerguelen petrel (Pterodroma brevirostris)

The history of the genus Bedfordiella is outlined. Examination of 22 lice samples from Pterodroma brevirostris (type-host of B. unica) containing many specimens belonging to Bedfordiella, has shown that only one species should be recognised, i.e. B. unica Thompson, 1937. Bedfordiella simsi Timmermann, 1961 is placed as a junior synonym and its type host, Pachyptila vittata vittata, is regarded as a wrong host for lice of the genus Bedfordiella. The relationship of the kerguelen petrel based on its Mallophagan parasites are discussed.