Data for the revision of subgenus Trachinostomias (Melanostomiidae: Photonectes). Morphological variability of P. margarita with description of two new species

Abstract

The subgeneric structure of the genus Photonectes is discussed. It is considered reasonable to distinguish only two subgenera (Photonectes s. str. and Trachinostomias), whereas subgenera Dolichostomias and Melanonectes are proposed to be combined with the nominotypical subgenus. The variability was studied, the morphological description of P. margarita is given, and new species P. gorodinskii and P. uncinatus spp. n. are described. The existence of yet another undescribed species close to P. margarita and P. gorodinskii is assumed. A key to subgenera of Photonectes and known species of Trachinostomias is provided.