A new type F Wolbachia from Splendidofilariinae (Onchocercidae) supports the recent emergence of this supergroup

► New supergroup F Wolbachia was detected in Madathamugadia hiepei. ► The first filaria harbouring Wolbachia described in a non-mammalian host. ► Phylogeny of supergroup F Wolbachia suggested events of horizontal transmission. ► The phylogenetic analyses confirmed a recent emergence of supergroup F. ► Intestinal cells are infected, suggesting different metabolic interactions.