First record of a non-indigenous lanternbelly, Acropoma argentistigma (Teleostei: Perciformes: Acropomatidae) from the Bay of Bengal coast of Bangladesh

Abstract

The Bay of Bengal coast is acting as a pristine ecological niche for many indigenous and non-indigenous fish species as along with other aquatic organisms. The present study describes the first record of lanternbelly, Acropoma argentistigma (Okamoto & Ida, 2002) from the Bay of Bengal coast, Bangladesh based on 32 specimens. The species were identified on the basis of phenotypic characteristics; for instance, pinkish-red body colour, presence of U-shaped luminous gland, well-organized conical teeth on the lower jaw, 17-gill rackers, and position of the anus in the middle of the ventral margin. The first record of Acropoma argentistigma in the area further enhances the ichthyofaunal diversity in these areas as well as overall fish species of Bangladesh.