Verification of two barracudina species Lestrolepis japonica (Tanaka, 1908) and L. philippina (Fowler, 1934) (Aulopiformes, Paralepididae)

Abstract

Examination of the type series of Lestidium japonica Tanaka reveals that the generally accepted concept of this species does not accord with the type series. A historical review of the literature showed that the characterization of L. japonica changed over time, and what has been recognized as “L. japonica” for more than 70 years actually represents a distinct and different species. Among the junior synonyms of “L. japonica”, Paralepis philippinus Fowler, 1934 is resurrected as a valid species herein in a new combination, Lestrolepis philippina. Lestrolepis nigroventralis Ho, Tsai & Li is recognized as a junior synonym of L. japonica herein. Revised diagnostic characteristics for both L. japonica and L. philippina are provided, along with comments on related names to verify their nomenclatural status.