Abstract
A juvenile of Rhinopias cf. argoliba 28 mm SL collected in the western part of the Pacific Ocean eastward of the Philippines is described. It is characterized by an incomplete metamorphosis with some larval characters retained such as the developed spination and relatively straight dorsal contour of the head, absence of the scales and the branched fin rays (except in pelvic fins), and a long penultimate dorsal-fin spine. Comparison of this juvenile with juveniles of R. aphanes 11–22 mm SL reveals the diagnostic importance of the pigmentation of the pectoral fin which disappears in the adult fishes. A possible synonymy of the genera Rhinopias and Pogonoscorpius was repeatedly supposed by the former authors. The poorly-known Pogonoscorpius sechellensis retains the features characteristic for the species of Rhinopias from the earliest ontogenetic stages only, and probably represents a neotenic species of the latter genus.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
