Larvae and juveniles of pempheridid fishes, Pempheris xanthoptera and P. japonica

Abstract

Larval developments of Pempheris xanthoptera and P. japonica were described on 31 (6.45–22.40 mm SL) and 5 (10.35–35.70 mm SL) specimens, respectively, with particular attention to cartilaginous development. Comparison between the two species indicated that P. xanthoptera was discriminated from P. japonica by the following key characters: two supracleithral spines (one in P. japonica); longer pectoral fin; shorter ventral fin; and absence of melanophore on mid-ventral part of lower jaw and anterolateral region of trunk, and web of ventral fin.