Opistognathus ctenion (Perciformes, Opistognathidae): a new jawfish from southern Japan

Abstract

Opistognathus ctenion sp. nov. (Perciformes: Opistognathidae) is described on the basis of three specimens (17.3–30.6 mm in standard length) collected from the Osumi and Ryukyu islands, southern Japan in depths of 35–57 m. Although most similar to Opistognathus triops, recently described from Tonga and Vanuatu, the new species differs in mandibular pore arrangement, dorsal- and caudal-fin coloration, fewer gill rakers, and lacks blotches or stripes on the snout, suborbital region and both jaws.