Limnichthys polyactis, a new species of blennioid fish from New Zealand, with notes on the taxonomy and distribution of other Creediidae (including Limnichthyidae)

Abstract

Abstract Limnichthys polyactis n.sp., from the North Island of New Zealand, differs from its nearest relative, the more widespread L. rendahli Parrott, in having a shorter preanal distance (the origin of the anal fin precedes the origin of the dorsal fin, as in the other four species of Limnichthys), fewer cirri along the lower jaw, a shorter snout, and fewer vertebrae. The deepest known occurrence of L. polyactis is 6 m, compared to at least 165 m for L. rendahli. It is suggested that the families Creediidae and Limnichthyidae be combined, the former name having precedence. Notes are given on the taxonomy and distribution of the 13 recognised species, and characters for their separation are keyed.