J.L.B. SMITH INSTITUTE OF ICHTHYOLOGY GRAHAMSTOWN, SOUTH AFRICA m i L* A ICHTHYOLOGICAL MONOGRAPHS NUMBER 1 JUNE 1995 ABSTRACT Smale, Malcolm J„ Gillian Watson and Thomas Flecht. 1995. Otolith atlas of southern African marine fishes. Ichthyological Monographs of the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology, No. 1, xiv, 253 pages, 149 plates. Otoliths from 972 fish species representing 181 families occurring off the coast of southern Africa are described and illustrated to aid identification of otoliths from predator stomach contents, archaeological deposits or palaeontological studies. Keys are provided for most families to assist in the identification of species. Regressions relating otolith diameter to body length and mass are provided where adequate material is available. Otoliths used are listed and where appropriate, the institution which holds fish voucher specimens and their accession numbers are provided. Most of the material collected was from the western Indian Ocean and the south-eastern Atlantic, except for a few widely distributed species which were collected from the northern hemisphere or elsewhere. Significant disparaties in otolith form within certain families are noted and may indicate taxonomic anomalies. With grateful acknowledgement for financial contributions from the Foundation for Research Development, WWF South Africa (formerly The Southern African Nature Foundation) and Grinaker. F R D WWF GRIMKER ISBN 0-86810-294-6 Abbreviations . . . . . . . 10 NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE ORDER: ELOPIFORMES 12 Elopidae 43 36.2 Elopidae Elops machnata 1 12 Aibulidae 45 38.1 Albulidae Albula vulpes 1 12 Albulidae 45 38.2 Albulidae Pterothrissus belloci 1 12 ORDER: NQTACANTHTFORMES 12 Halosauridae 46 53.3 Halosauridae Halosauropsis macrochir 1 12 Halosauridae 46 53.4 Halosauridae Halosaurus ovenii 1 13 Notacanthidae 47 52.1 Notacanthidae Notacanthus sexspinis 1 1 13 ORDER: ANGULLLIFORMES 13 Xenocongridae 52 43,- Xenocongridae Kaupichthys sp. 1 13 Muraenidae 54 41.10 Muraenidae Gymnothorax eurostus 2 13 Muraenidae 54 41.12 Muraenidae Gymnothorax Jlavimarginatus 2 14 Muraenidae 54 41.23 Muraenidae Gyrnnothorax rueppelliae 2 14 Muraenidae 54 41.24 Muraenidae Gymnothorax undulatus 2 14 Muraenidae 54 41.31 Muraenidae Uropterygius micropterus 2 14 Nemichthyidae 55 51.1 Nemichthyidae Avocettina acuticeps 2 15 Nemiehthyidae 55 51.3 Nemichthyidae Nemichthys curvirostris 2 15 Nemichthyidae 55 51.4 Nemichthyidae Nemichthys scolopaceus 2 15 Synaphobranchidae 57 46.1 Synaphobranchidae Diastobranchus capensis 2 1 15 Synaphobranchidae 57 46.2 Synaphobranchidae Dysomma anguillare 3 16 Synaphobranchidae 57 46.6 Synaphobranchidae Synaphobranchus affinis 3 16 Synaphobranchidae 57 46.7 Synaphobranchidae Synaphobranchus kaupii 3 1 16 Ophichthidae 58 42.10 Ophichthidae Muraenichthys gymnotus 3 16 Ophichthidae 58 42.23 Ophichthidae Ophisurus serpens 3 16 Nettastomatidae 59 47.1 Nettastomatidae Nettastoma parviceps 3 17 Congridae 62 40.1 Congridae Ariosoma mauritanum 3 17 Congridae 62 40.3 Congridae Bassanago albescens 3 1 17 Congridae 62 40.5 Congridae Bathyuroconger vicinus 4 17 Congridae 62 40.6 Congridae Coloconger scholesi 4 18 Congridae 62 40.7 Congridae Conger cinereus cinereus 4 18 Congridae 62 40.8 Congridae Conger wilsoni 4 1 18 Congridae 62 40.9 Congridae Gnathophis capensis 4 18 Congridae 62 40.11 Congridae Rhechias wallacei 4 18 Congridae 62 40.12 Congridae Uroconger lepturus 5 18 Congridae 62 45.1 Muraenesocidae Muraenesox bagio 5 19 Derichthyidae 63 49.2 Derichthyidae Nessorhamphus ingolfianus 5 19 Serrivomeridae 64 48.1 Serrivomeridae Serrivomer beanii 5 19 Serrivomeridae 64 48.- Serrivomeridae Semvomer sp. A 5 19 ORDER: CLUPEIFORMES 19 Clupeidae 69 54.- Clupeidae Dussumieria elopsoides 5 20 Clupeidae 69 54.1 Clupeidae Etrumeus teres 5 20 Clupeidae 69 54.2 Clupeidae Etrumeus whiteheadi 5 1 20 Clupeidae 69 54.3 Clupeidae Gilchristella aestuaria 6 21 Clupeidae 69 54.4 Clupeidae Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus 6 21 Clupeidae 69 54.5 Clupeidae Hilsa kelee 6 21 Clupeidae 69 54.7 Clupeidae Pellona ditchela 6 21 Clupeidae 69 54.8 Clupeidae Sardinella albella 6 21 Clupeidae 69 54.9 Clupeidae Sardinella aurita 6 22 Clupeidae 69 54.10 Clupeidae Sardinella gibbosa 7 22 Clupeidae 69 54.12 Clupeidae Sardinops ocellatus 7 1 22 Engraulidae 70 55.1 Engraulidae Engraulis japonicus 7 1 22 Engraulidae 70 55.5 Engraulidae Thryssa setirostris 7 1 23 Engraulidae 70 55.6 Engraulidae Thryssa vitrirostris 7 1 23' Chirocentridae 71 56.1 Chirocentridae Chirocentrus dorab 8 23 ORDER: CONOR YNCHTFORMES 23 Chanidae 72 58.1 Chanidae Chanos chanos 8 23 Gonorynchidae 73 57.1 Gonorynchidae Gonorynchus gonorynchus 8 1 24 ORDER: SILURIFORMES 24 Ariidae 108 59.2 Ariidae Galeichthys ater 8 1 24 Ariidae 108 59.3 Ariidae Galeichth/ys feliceps 8 1 24 Ariidae 108 59.- Ariidae Galeichthys sp. 8 24 Plotosidae 109 60.1 Plotosidae Plotosus lineatus 9 24 Plotosidae 109 60.2 Plotosidae Plotosus nkunga 9 24 ORDER: SALMONTFORMES 25 Argentinidae 131 61.- Argentinidae Argentina silus 9 25 2469974 NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Argentinidae 131 61.3 Argentinidae Nansenia macrolepis 9 25 Argentinidae 131 61.- Argentinidae Glossanodon semifasciatus 9 25 Bathylagidae 132 62.1 Bathylagidae Bathylagus antarcticus 9 25 Bathylagidae 132 62.2 Bathylagidae Bathylagus bericoides 9 26 Bathylagidae 132 62.- Bathylagidae Bathylagus sp. 9 26 Opisthoproctidae 133 63.1 Opisthoproctidae Opisthoproctus grimaldii 10 26 Opisthoproctidae 133 63.2 Opisthoproctidae Opisthoproctus soleatus 10 26 Opisthoproctidae 133 63.4 Opisthoproctidae Winteria telescopa 10 26 Alepocephalidae 134 64.1 Alepocephalidae Alepocephalus australis 10 1 27 Alepocephalidae 134 64.- Alepocephalidae Alepocephalus sp. 10 27 Alepocephalidae 134 64.18 Alepocephalidae Xenodermichthys copei 10 27 Searsiidae 135 65.7 Platytroctidae Persparsia kopua 10 27 Searsiidae 135 65.8 Platytroctidae ISagamichthys schnakenbecki A 10 28 Searsiidae 135 65.8 Platytroctidae ISagamichthys schnakenbecki B 10 28 ORDER: STOMEFORMES 28 Gonostomatidae 144 74.1 Gonostomatidae Bonapartia pedaliota 11 28 Gonostomatidae 144 74.11 Gonostomatidae Gonostoma atlanticum 11 28 Gonostomtidae 144 74.12 Gonostomatidae Gonostoma bathyphilum 11 29 Gonostomatidae 144 74.14 Gonostomatidae Gonostoma elongatum 11 29 Stemoptychidae 145 75.1 Stemoptychidae Maurolicus muelleri 11 1 29 Stemoptychidae 145 75.4 Stemoptychidae Argyropelecus affinis 11 29 Stemoptychidae 145 75.5 Stemoptychidae Argyropelecus gigas 11 30 Stemoptychidae 145 75.7 Stemoptychidae Argyropelecus sladeni 11 30 Stemoptychidae 145 75.8 Stemoptychidae Polyipnus indicus 11 30 Stemoptychidae 145 75.10 Stemoptychidae Polyipnus polli 12 30 Stemoptychidae 145 75.11 Stemoptychidae Stemoptyx diaphana 12 30 Photichthyidae 146 73.4 Photichthyidae Photichthys argenteus 12 1 31 Photichthyidae 146 73.- Photichthyidae Vinciguerria lucetia 12 31 Chauliodontidae 147 68.1 Chauliodontidae Chauliodus minimus 12 31 Chauliodontidae 147 68.2 Chauliodontidae Chauliodus sloani 12 1 31 Stomiidae 148 67.2 Stomiidae Stomias boa boa 12 31 Astronesthidae 149 69.1 Astronesthidae Astronesthes boulengeri 12 32 Astronesthidae 149 69.3 Astronesthidae Astronesthes indicus 12 32 Astronesthidae 149 69.8 Astronesthidae Borostomias mononema 13 32 Astronesthidae 149 69.9 Astronesthidae Neonesthes capensis 13 32 Melanostomiidae 150 72.5 Melanostomiidae Echiostoma barbatum 13 33 Melanostomiidae 150 72.10 Melanostomiidae Eustomias lipochirus 13 33 Melanostomiidae 150 72.11 Melanostomiidae Eustomias schmidti 13 33 Melanostomiidae 150 72.18 Melanostomiidae Melanostomias niger 13 33 Melanostomiidae 150 72.21 Melanostomiidae Opostomias micripnus 13 33 Melanostomiidae 150 72.25 Melanostomiidae Trigonolampa miriceps 13 34 Malacosteidae 151 71.4 Malacosteidae Malacosteus niger 13 34 Idiacanthidae 152 70.1 Idiacanthidae Idiacanthus atlanticus 14 34 Idiacanthidae 152 70.2 Idiacanthidae Idiacanthus fasciola 14 34 ORDER: AULOPEFORMES 34 Chlorophthalmidae 154 76.7 Chlorophthalmidae Bathysauropsis gracilis 14 35 Chlorophthalmidae 154 76.9 Chlorophthalmidae Chlorophthalmus punctatus 14 1 35 Scopelarchidae 155 77.2 Scopelarchidae Benthalbella macropinna 14 35 Scopelarchidae 155 77.5 Scopelarchidae Scopelarchus analis 14 35 Notosudidae 156 78.3 Notosudidae Scopelosaurus ahlstromi 14 36 Notosudidae 156 78.5 Notosudidae Scopelosaurus meadi 14 36 Synodontidae 157 79.1 Synodontidae Bathysaurus ferox 15 36 Synodontidae 157 79.2 Synodontidae Saurida gracilis 15 36 Synodontidae 157 79.3 Synodontidae Saurida undosquamis 15 1 37 Synodontidae 157 79.7 Synodontidae Synodus indicus 15 37 Synodontidae 157 79.9 Synodontidae Synodus variegatus 15 37 Synodontidae 157 79.10 Synodontidae Trachinocephalus myops 16 37 Paralepididae 159 81.2 Paralepididae Lestidiops similis 16 37 Paralepididae 159 81.4 Paralepididae Lestrolepis intermedia 16 38 Paralepididae 159 81.5 Paralepididae Macroparalepis macrogeneion 16 38 Paralepididae 159 81.- Paralepididae Paralepis atlantica 16 38 Alepisauridae 163 85.2 Alepisauridae Alepisaurus ferox 16 38 ORDER: MYCTOPHIFORMES 38 Myctophidae 166 86.1 Myctophidae Benthosema fibulatum 16 41 Myctophidae 166 86.3 Myctophidae Benthosema suborbitale 16 42 Myctophidae 166 86.4 Myctophidae Bolinichthys indicus 17 42 Myctophidae 166 86.7 Myctophidae Bolinichthys supralateralis 17 1 42 Myctophidae 166 86.9 Myctophidae Ceratoscopelus warmingii 17 42 Myctophidae 166 86.13 Myctophidae Diaphus brachycephalus 17 42 Myctophidae 166 86.16 Myctophidae Diaphus effulgens 17 43 Myctophidae 166 86.19 Myctophidae Diaphus garmani 17 43 Myctophidae 166 86.20 Myctophidae Diaphus hudsoni 17 1 43 Myctophidae 166 86.21 Myctophidae Diaphus jenseni 17 43 Myctophidae 166 86.23 Myctophidae Diaphus lucidus 18 43 II NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Myctophidae 166 86.26 Myctophidae Diaphus meadi 18 43 Myctophidae 166 86.27 Myctophidae Diaphus metopoclampus 18 44 Myctophidae 166 86.28 Myctophidae Diaphus mollis 18 1 44 Myctophidae 166 86.30 Myctophidae Diaphus ostenfeldi 18 44 Myctophidae 166 86.32 Myctophidae Diaphus perspicillatus 18 44 Myctophidae 166 86.34 Myctophidae Diaphus problematicus 19 44 Myctophidae 166 86.41 Myctophidae Diaphus watasei 19 45 Myctophidae 166 86.44 Myctophidae Electrona antarctica 19 1 45 Myctophidae 166 86.45 Myctophidae Electrona carlsbergi 19 1 45 Myctophidae 166 86.47 Myctophidae Electrona risso 19 1 45 Myctophidae 166 86.49 Myctophidae Gonichthys bamesi 19 45 Myctophidae 166 86.51 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus bolini 20 46 Myctophidae 166 86.52 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus braueri 20 46 Myctophidae 166 86.53 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus nicholsi 20 1 46 Myctophidae 166 86.54 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus opisthopterus 20 46 Myctophidae 166 86.55 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus fraseri 20 46 Myctophidae 166 86.58 Myctophidae Gymnoscopelus piabilis 20 1 47 Myctophidae 166 86.60 Myctophidae Hygophum hanseni 21 47 Myctophidae 166 86.61 Myctophidae Hygophum hygomii 21 47 Myctophidae 166 86.62 Myctophidae Hygophum proximum 21 47 Myctophidae 166 86.64 Myctophidae Krefftichthys anderssoni 21 1 47 Myctophidae 166 86.66 Myctophidae Lampadena chavesi 21 48 Myctophidae 166 86.68 Myctophidae Lampadena luminosa 21 48 Myctophidae 166 86.69 Myctophidae Lampadena notialis 21 48 Myctophidae 166 86.71 Myctophidae Lampadena speculigera 22 48 Myctophidae 166 86.72 Myctophidae Lampanyctodes hectoris 22 1 48 Myctophidae 166 86.73 Myctophidae Lampanyctus achirus 22 49 Myctophidae 166 86.74 Myctophidae Lampanyctus alatus 22 49 Myctophidae 166 86.75 Myctophidae Lampanyctus ater 22 49 Myctophidae 166 86.76 Myctophidae Lampanyctus australis 22 1 49 Myctophidae 166 86.77 Myctophidae Lampanyctus festivus 23 49 Myctophidae 166 86.78 Myctophidae Lampanyctus intricarius 23 49 Myctophidae 166 86.79 Myctophidae Lampanyctus lepidolychnus 23 1 50 Myctophidae 166 86.81 Myctophidae Lampanyctus macdonaldi 23 50 Myctophidae 166 86.83 Myctophidae Lampanyctus photonotus 23 50 Myctophidae 166 86.84 Myctophidae Lampanyctus pusillus 23 50 Myctophidae 166 86.86 Myctophidae Lampanyctus tenuiformis 23 50 Myctophidae 166 86.- Myctophidae Lampanyctus vadulus 24 51 Myctophidae 166 86.90 Myctophidae Lampichthys procerus 24 51 Myctophidae 166 86.92 Myctophidae Lobianchia dofleini 24 51 Myctophidae 166 86.93 Myctophidae Lobianchia gemellarii 24 1 51 Myctophidae 166 86.97 Myctophidae Metelectrona ventralis 24 51 Myctophidae 166 86.99 Myctophidae Myctophum aurolatematum 24 52 Myctophidae 166 86.101 Myctophidae Myctophum nitidulum 25 52 Myctophidae 166 86.102 Myctophidae Myctophum obtusirostre 25 52 Myctophidae 166 86.103 Myctophidae Myctophum phengodes 25 52 Myctophidae 166 86.105 Myctophidae Myctophum spinosum 25 52 Myctophidae 166 86.107 Myctophidae Notoscopelus caudispinosus 25 53 Myctophidae 166 86.108 Myctophidae Notoscopelus resplendens 25 53 Myctophidae 166 86.112 Myctophidae Protomyctophum bolini 25 53 Myctophidae 166 86.116 Myctophidae Protomyctophum normani 25 53 Myctophidae 166 86.117 Myctophidae Protomyctophum tenisoni 26 53 Myctophidae 166 86.118 Myctophidae Scopelopsis multipunctatus 26 1 54 Myctophidae 166 86.119 Myctophidae Symbolophorus bamardi 26 1 54 Myctophidae 166 86.120 Myctophidae Symbolophorus boops 26 1 54 Myctophidae 166 86.121 Myctophidae Symbolophorus evermanni 26 54 Myctophidae 166 86.122 Myctophidae Symbolophorus ruftnus 26 54 Myctophidae 166 86.123 Myctophidae Taaningichthys bathyphilus 26 55 ORDER: GADIFORMES 55 Moridae 171 90.1 Moridae Antimora rostrata 27 1 55 Moridae 171 90.3 Moridae Laemonema globiceps 27 55 Moridae 171 90.4 Moridae Laemonema laureysi 27 55 Moridae 171 90.5 Moridae Lepidion capensis 27 1 56 Moridae 171 90.7 Moridae Physiculus capensis 27 1 56 Moridae 171 90.8 Moridae Physiculus natalensis 27 56 Moridae 171 90.9 Moridae Tripterophycis gilchristi 28 1 56 Melanonidae 172 91.1 Melanonidae Melanonus gracilis 28 57 Melanonidae 172 91.2 Melanonidae Melanonus zugmayeri 28 57 Bregmacerotidae 173 92.2 Bregmacerotidae Bregmaceros macclellandii 28 57 Bregmacerotidae 173 92.3 Bregmacerotidae Bregmaceros nectabanus 28 57 Gadidae 174 88.1 Gadidae Gaidropsarus capensis 28 1 57 Merlucciidae 175 89.3 Merlucciidae Macruronus capensis 28 58 iii NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Merlucciidae 175 89.4 Merlucciidae Merluccius capensis 29 1 58 Merlucciidae 175 89.5 Merlucciidae Merluccius paradoxus 29 1 58 Macrouridae 176 93.- Macrouridae Bathygadus cottoides 29 60 Macrouridae 176 93.2 Macrouridae Bathygadus melanobranchus 29 60 Macrouridae 176 93.4 Macrouridae Caelorinchus acanthiger 29 60 Macrouridae 176 93.5 Macrouridae Caelorinchus braueri 29 1 60 Macrouridae 176 93.8 Macrouridae Caelorinchus simorhynchus 30 1 60 Macrouridae 176 93.7 Macrouridae Caelorinchus denticulatus 30 1 61 Macrouridae 176 93.- Macrouridae Caelorinchus kaiyomaru 30 61 Macrouridae 176 93.- Macrouridae Caelorinchus karrerae 30 61 Macrouridae 176 93.- Macrouridae Caelorinchus quadricristatus 30 61 Macrouridae 176 93.9 Macrouridae Caelorinchus trunovi 30 61 Macrouridae 176 93.12 Macrouridae Coryphaenoides striaturus 30 62 Macrouridae 176 93.13 Macrouridae Coryphaenoides subserrulatus 30 62 Macrouridae 176 93.14 Macrouridae Gadomus capensis 31 62 Macrouridae 176 93.21 Macrouridae Kuronezumia leonis 31 62 Macrouridae 176 93.32 Macrouridae Lucigadus ori 31 1 62 Macrouridae 176 93.16 Macrouridae Caelorinchus matamua 31 1 63 Macrouridae 176 93.17 Macrouridae Malacocephalus laevis 31 1 63 Macrouridae 176 93.18 Macrouridae Mesobius antipodum 31 63 Macrouridae 176 93.19 Macrouridae Nezumia brevibarbata 31 63 Macrouridae 176 93.22 Macrouridae Nezumia micronychodon 31 1 63 Macrouridae 176 93.- Macrouridae Nezumia umbracincta 32 64 Macrouridae 176 93.27 Macrouridae Sphagemacrurus pumiliceps 32 64 Macrouridae 176 93.28 Macrouridae Trachonurus villosus 32 64 Macrouridae 176 93.29 Macrouridae Trachyrincus scabrus 32 64 Macrouridae 176 93.31 Macrouridae Ventrifossa nasuta 32 64 ORDER: OPHIDIIFORMES 65 Ophidiidae 177 96.3 Ophidiidae Brotula multibarbata 32 65 Ophidiidae 177 96.5 Ophidiidae Dicrolene intronigra 32 1 65 Ophidiidae 177 96.9 Ophidiidae Genypterus capensis 33 1 65 Ophidiidae 177 96.13 Ophidiidae Hoplobrotula gnathopus 33 65 Ophidiidae 177 96.18 Ophidiidae Neobythites analis 33 66 Ophidiidae 177 96.22 Ophidiidae Selachophidium guentheri 33 1 66 Carapidae 178 97.- Carapidae Encheliophis boraborensis 33 66 Bythitidae 179 98.1 Bythitidae Bidenichthys capensis 34 66 Bythitidae 179 98.3 Bythitidae Cataetyx laticeps 34 66 Bythitidae 179 98.4 Bythitidae Cataetyx niki 34 67 ORDER: BATRACHOIDIFORMES 67 Batrachoididae 181 100.3 Batrachoididae Batrichthys apiatus 34 67 Batrachoididae 181 100.5 Batrachoididae Chatrabus hendersoni 34 67 Batrachoididae 181 100.6 Batrachoididae Chatrabus melanurus 34 67 ORDER: LOPHIIFORMES 67 Lophiidae 182 101.2 Lophiidae Lophiodes mutilus 34 68 Lophiidae 182 101.- Lophiidae Lophius vaillanti 34 68 Lophiidae 182 101.4 Lophiidae Lophius vomerinus 34 1 68 Antennariidae 183 102.4 Antennariidae Antennarius hispidus 35 68 Antennariidae 183 102.7 Antennariidae Antennarius striatus 35 68 Antennariidae 183 102.9 Antennariidae Histrio histrio 35 69 Chaunacidae 185 103.2 Chaunacidae Chaunax pictus 35 1 69 Ogcocephalidae 186 104.2 Ogcocephalidae Halieutaea fitzsimonsi 35 1 69 Ogcocephalidae 186 104.6 Ogcocephalidae Malthopsis luteus 35 69 Ogcocephalidae 186 104.8 Ogcocephalidae Malthopsis tiarella 35 69 Ceratiidae 188 105.2 Ceratiidae Ceratias ? tentaculatus 36 70 Ceratiidae 188 105.3 Ceratiidae Cryptopsaras couesii 36 70 Himantolophidae 196 108.1 Himantolophidae Himantolophus groenlandicus 36 70 ORDER: GOBIESOCIFORMES 70 Gobiesocidae 198 110.1 Gobiesocidae Apletodon pellegrini 36 70 Gobiesocidae 198 110.2 Gobiesocidae Chorisochismus dentex 36 1 70 ORDER: CYPRINODONTIFORMES 71 Exocoetidae 200 116.1 Exocoetidae Cheilopogon cyanopterus 36 71 Exocoetidae 200 116.4 Exocoetidae Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus altipennis 36 71 Exocoetidae 200 116.- Exocoetidae Cypselurus oligolepis 36 71 Exocoetidae 200 116.6 Exocoetidae Exocoetus volitans 37 72 Exocoetidae 200 116.7 Exocoetidae Hirundichthys rondeletii 37 72 Exocoetidae 200 116.10 Exocoetidae Parexocoetus mento 37 72 Hemiramphidae 201 115.1 Hemiramphidae Euleptorhamphus viridis 37 72 Hemiramphidae 201 115.2 Hemiramphidae Hemiramphus far 37 1 73 Hemiramphidae 201 115.3 Hemiramphidae Hyporhamphus affinis 37 73 Hemiramphidae 201 115.4 Hemiramphidae Hyporhamphus capensis 37 1 73 Hemiramphidae 201 115.6 Hemiramphidae Oxyporhamphus m. micropterus 38 73 Belonidae 202 113.1 Belonidae Ablennes hians 38 74 Belonidae 202 113.2 Belonidae Petalichthys capensis 38 74 iv NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Belonidae 202 113.4 Belonidae Tylosurus crocodilus crocodilus 38 74 Scomberesocidae 203 114.2 Scomberesocidae Scomberesox saurus scomberoides 38 1 74 ORDER: ATHERINIFORMES 74 Antherinidae 213 111.1 Antherinidae Atherina breviceps 39 1 74 Antherinidae 213 111.3 Antherinidae Atherinomorus lacunosus 39 75 Antherinidae 213 111.6 Antherinidae Hypoatherina temminckii 39 75 ORDER: LAMPRIFORMES 75 Lophotidae 220 121.2 Lophotidae Lophotus lacepede 39 75 Trachipteridae 222 119.3 Trachipteridae Trachipterus trachypterus 39 75 Regalecidae 223 122.1 Regalecidae Agrostichthys parkeri 39 76 Ateleopodidae 225 124.2 Ateleopodidae A teleopus natalensis 40 76 ORDER: BERYCIFORMES 76 Monocentrididae 229 128.1 Monocentridae Monocentris japonicus 40 76 Trachichthyidae 230 127.2 Trachichthyidae Hoplostethus atlanticus 40 1 76 Trachichthyidae 230 127.4 Trachichthyidae Hoplostethus mediterraneus 40 1 77 Trachichthyidae 230 127.6 Trachichthyidae Hoplostethus melanopus 40 77 Anomalopidae 231 129.1 Anomalopidae Photoblepharon palpebratus steinitzi 41 77 Diretmidae 232 130.1 Diretmidae Diretmoides parini 41 77 Diretmidae 232 130.2 Diretmidae Diretmus argenteus 41 1 77 Anoplogasteridae 233 131.1 Anoplogasteridae Anoplogaster comuta 41 78 Berycidae 234 126.2 Berycidae Beryx splendens 41 1 78 Berycidae 234 126.3 Berycidae Centroberyx spinosus 42 78 Holocentridae 235 132.4 Holocentridae Neoniphon sammara 42 79 Holocentridae 235 132.5 Holocentridae Sargocentron caudimaculatum 42 79 Holocentridae 235 132.6 Holocentridae Sargocentron diadema 42 79 Holocentridae 235 132.7 Holocentridae Sargocentron inaequalis 42 80 Holocentndae 235 132.10 Holocentridae Sargocentron melanospilos 42 80 Holocentridae 235 132.12 Holocentridae Sargocentron praslin 42 80 Holocentridae 235 132.13 Holocentridae Sargocentron punctatissimum 42 80 Holocentridae 235 132.16 Holocentridae Sargocentron spiniferum 43 80 Holocentridae 235 132.21 Holocentridae Myripristis bemdti 43 80 Holocentridae 235 132.22 Holocentridae Myripristis chry seres 43 81 Holocentridae 235 132.23 Holocentridae Myripristis hexagona 43 81 Holocentridae 235 132.24 Holocentridae Myripristis kuntee 43 81 Holocentridae 235 132.25 Holocentridae Myripristis melanosticta 43 81 Holocentridae 235 132.26 Holocentridae Myripristis murdjan 43 81 Holocentridae 235 132.27 Holocentridae Myripristis pralinia 43 82 Holocentridae 235 132.33 Holocentridae Ostichthys kaianus 44 82 Holocentridae 235 132.34 Holocentridae Plectrypops lima 44 82 Polymixiidae 236 134.1 Polymixiidae Polymixia bemdti 44 82 Melamphaidae 238 133.5 Melamphaidae Melamphaes simus 44 83 Melamphaidae 238 133.6 Melamphaidae Poromitra crassiceps 44 83 Melamphaidae 238 133.7 Melamphaidae Poromitra megalops 44 83 Melamphaidae 238 133.12 Melamphaidae Scopelogadus beanii 44 83 Melamphaidae 238 133.13 Melamphaidae Scopelogadus mizolepis mizolepis 44 83 Melamphaidae 238 133.14 Melamphaidae Sio nordenskjoldii 44 83 Rondeletiidae 240 136.1 Rondeletiidae Rondeletia loricata 45 84 Barbourisiidae 241 137.1 Barbourisiidae Barbourisia rufa 45 84 ORDER: ZEIFORMES 84 Macrourocyttidae 244 141.1 Zeniontidae Zenion hololepis 45 84 Zeidae 245 138.2 Zeidae Cyttus traversi 45 85 Zeidae 245 138.3 Zeidae Zenopsis conchifer 45 85 Zeidae 245 138.4 Zeidae Zeus capensis 45 1 85 Zeidae 245 138.5 Zeidae Zeus faber 45 85 Oreosomatidae 246 139.2 Oreosomatidae Allocyttus verrucosus 46 1 85 Oreosomatidae 246 139.3 Oreosomatidae Neocyttus rhomboidalis 46 1 86 Oreosomatidae 246 139.4 Oreosomatidae Oreosoma atlanticum 46 1 86 Oreosomatidae 246 139.5 Oreosomatidae Pseudocyttus maculatus 46 86 Grammicolepididae 247 140.2 Grammicolepididae Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi 46 86 Caproidae 248 162.1 Caproidae Antigonia rubescens 47 86 ORDER: PEGASIFORMES 87 Pegasidae 253 142.1 Pegasidae Eurypegasus draconis 47 87 ORDER: SYNGNATHIFORMES 87 Aulostomidae 254 143.1 Aulostomidae Aulostomus chinensis 47 87 Fistulariidae 255 144.1 Fistulariidae Fistularia commersonii 47 87 Macroramphosidae 256 147.2 Macroramphosidae Macroramphosus scolopax 47 1 87 Macroramphosidae 256 147.4 Macroramphosidae Notopogon macrosolen 47 87 Syngnathidae 259 145.31 Syngnathidae Trachyrhamphus bicoarctatus 48 88 ORDER: DACTYLOPTERIFORMES 88 Dactylopteridae 260 159.1 Dactylopteridae Dactyloptena orientalis 48 88 Dactylopteridae 260 159.2 Dactylopteridae Dactyloptena peterseni 48 88 ORDER: SCORPAENIFORMES 88 Scorpaenidae 262 149.1 Scorpaenidae Apistus carinatus 48 89 Scorpaenidae 262 149.3 Scorpaenidae Minous coccineus 48 89 V NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Scorpaenidae 262 149.4 Scorpaenidae Dendrochirus brachypterus 48 90 Scorpaenidae 262 149.6 Scorpaenidae Parapterois heterurus 48 90 Scorpaenidae 262 149.7 Scorpaenidae Pterois antennata 49 90 Scorpaenidae 262 149.8 Scorpaenidae Pterois miles 49 90 Scorpaenidae 262 149.10 Scorpaenidae Pterois radiata 49 90 Scorpaenidae 262 149.14 Scorpaenidae Neomerinthe nielseni 49 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.17 Scorpaenidae Phenacoscorpius adenensis 49 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.21 Scorpaenidae Scorpaena scrofa 49 1 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.28 Scorpaenidae Scorpaenodes parvipinnis 50 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.32 Scorpaenidae Scorpaenopsis gibbosa 50 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.36 Scorpaenidae Scorpaenopsis venosa 50 91 Scorpaenidae 262 149.37 Scorpaenidae Sebastapistes cyanostigma 50 92 Scorpaenidae 262 149.39 Scorpaenidae Sebastapistes strongia 50 92 Scorpaenidae 262 149.41 Scorpaenidae Taenianotus triacanthus 50 92 Scorpaenidae 262 149.42 Scorpaenidae Helicolenus dactylopterus 50 1 92 Scorpaenidae 262 149.43 Scorpaenidae Sebastes capensis 50 92 Scorpaenidae 262 149.44 Scorpaenidae Trachyscorpia capensis 51 1 93 Scorpaenidae 262 149.45 Scorpaenidae Setarches guentheri 51 93 Scorpaenidae 262 149.46 Scorpaenidae Synanceia verrucosa 51 93 Scorpaenidae 262 150.2 Tetrarogidae Coccotropsis gymnoderma 51 1 93 Congiopodidae 267 152.1 Congiopodidae Congiopodus spinifer 51 1 93 Congiopodidae 267 152.2 Congiopodidae Congiopodus torvus 52 94 Triglidae 268 157.1 Triglidae Chelidonichthys capensis 52 1 94 Triglidae 268 157.2 Triglidae Chelidonichthys kumu 52 1 94 Triglidae 268 157.3 Triglidae Chelidonichthys queketti 52 1 95 Triglidae 268 157.4 Triglidae Lepidotrigla faurei 52 95 Triglidae 268 157.5 Triglidae Lepidotrigla multispinosa 52 95 Triglidae 268 157.6 Triglidae Trigla lyra 53 95 Triglidae 268 157.7 Triglidae Trigloporus lastoviza africanus 53 95 Triglidae 268 158.1 Peristediidae Peristedion weberi 53 1 96 Triglidae 268 158.2 Peristediidae Satyrichthys adeni 53 1 96 Triglidae 268 158.3 Peristediidae Satyrichthys investigatoris 53 96 Platycephalidae 269 154.1 Bembridae Parabembras robinsoni 54 96 Platycephalidae 269 155.1 Platycephalidae Cociella crocodila 54 97 Platycephalidae 269 155.2 Platycephalidae Cociella sp. 54 97 Platycephalidae 269 155.3 Platycephalidae Grammoplites portuguesus 54 97 Platycephalidae 269 155.6 Platycephalidae Platycephalus indicus 54 97 Platycephalidae 269 155.7 Platycephalidae Sorsogona prionota 54 97 Platycephalidae 269 155.8 Platycephalidae Thysanophrys arenicola 54 98 Hoplichthyidae 270 156.1 Hoplichthyidae Hoplichthys acanthopleurus 55 98 Psychrolutidae 279 160.2 Psychrolutidae Ebinania costaecanarie 55 98 Psychrolutidae 279 160.3 Psychrolutidae Psychrolutes inermis 55 98 Psychrolutidae 279 160.4 Psychrolutidae Psychrolutes macrocephalus 55 1 98 ORDER: PERCIFORMES 99 Centropomidae 282 163.1 Ambassidae Ambassis gymnocephalus 55 99 Centropomidae 282 163.2 Ambassidae Ambassis natalensis 55 99 Centropomidae 282 163.3 Ambassidae Ambassis productus 55 99 Percichthyidae 283 165.1 Polyprionidae Polyprion americanus 56 99 Percichthyidae 283 176.1 Acropomatidae Acropoma japonicum 56 100 Percichthyidae 283 176.2 Acropomatidae Howella sherbomi 56 100 Percichthyidae 283 176.3 Acropomatidae Neoscombrops annectens 56 1 100 Percichthyidae 283 176.5 Acropomatidae Synagrops japonicus 56 1 100 Percichthyidae 283 176.6 Acropomatidae Synagrops microlepis 56 101 Serranidae 284 166.1 Serranidae Acanthistius sebastoides 57 1 101 Serranidae 284 166.2 Serranidae Acanthistius sp. 57 101 Serranidae 284 166.4 Serranidae Anthias connelli 57 101 Serranidae 284 166.9 Serranidae Anthias squamipinnis 57 1 102 Serranidae 284 166.12 Serranidae Holanthias natalensis 57 102 Serranidae 284 166.15 Serranidae Nemanthias carberryi 57 102 Serranidae 284 166.19 Serranidae Aethaloperca rogaa 58 102 Serranidae 284 166.21 Serranidae Cephalopholis argus 58 102 Serranidae 284 166.22 Serranidae Cephalopholis aurantia 58 103 Serranidae 284 166.25 Serranidae Cephalopholis leopardus 58 103 Serranidae 284 166.26 Serranidae Cephalopholis miniata 58 103 Serranidae 284 166.27 Serranidae Cephalopholis nigripinnis 58 103 Serranidae 284 166.28 Serranidae Cephalopholis sexmaculata 58 103 Serranidae 284 166.29 Serranidae Cephalopholis sonnerati 59 1 103 Serranidae 284 166.30 Serranidae Cephalopholis spiloparaea 59 104 Serranidae 284 166.- Serranidae Cephalopholis urodata 59 104 Serranidae 284 166.31 Serranidae Cromileptes altivelis 59 104 Serranidae 284 166.33 Serranidae Epinephelus albomarginatus 59 104 Serranidae 284 166.34 Serranidae Epinephelus andersoni 59 1 104 Serranidae 284 166.37 Serranidae Epinephelus chabaudi 60 105 vi NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Serranidae 284 166.38 Serranidae Epinephelus chlorostigma 60 105 Serranidae 284 166.39 Serranidae Epinephelus fasciatus 60 1 105 Serranidae 284 166.41 Serranidae Epinephelus flavocaeruleus 60 105 Serranidae 284 166.44 Serranidae Epinephelus hexagonatus 60 105 Serranidae 284 166.45 Serranidae Epinephelus lanceolatus 61 106 Serranidae 284 166.46 Serranidae Epinephelus longispinis 61 106 Serranidae 284 166.40 Serranidae Epinephelus macrospilos 61 106 Serranidae 284 166.43 Serranidae Epinephelus marginatus 61 1 106 Serranidae 284 166.49 Serranidae Epinephelus melanostigma 61 106 Serranidae 284 166.50 Serranidae Epinephelus merra 61 107 Serranidae 284 166.53 Serranidae Epinephelus morrhua 61 107 Serranidae 284 166.60 Serranidae Epinephelus rivulatus 62 1 107 Serranidae 284 166.63 Serranidae Epinephelus spilotoceps 62 107 Serranidae 284 166.65 Serranidae Epinephelus tauvina 62 107 Serranidae 284 166.66 Serranidae Epinephelus tukula 62 108 Serranidae 284 166.- Serranidae Plectropomus sp. 62 108 Serranidae 284 166.74 Serranidae Variola albimarginata 62 108 Serranidae 284 166.75 Serranidae Variola louti 62 108 Serranidae 284 166.76 Serranidae Serranus cabrilla 62 108 Serranidae 284 168.1 Callanthiidae Callanthias legras 63 109 Serranidae 284 180.1 Dinopercidae Dinoperca petersi 63 1 109 Grammistidae 285 167.1 Grammistidae Aulacocephalus temmincki 63 109 Grammistidae 285 167.3 Grammistidae Grammistes sexlineatus 63 109 Grammistidae 285 171.1 Pseudogrammidae Aporops allfreei 63 110 Grammistidae 285 171.2 Pseudogrammidae Pseudogramma polyacantha 63 110 Pseudochromidae 286 169.4 Pseudochromidae P seudochromis dutoiti 64 110 Pseudochromidae 286 169.5 Pseudochromidae Pseudochromis melas 64 110 Plesiopidae 288 172.1 Plesiopidae Calloplesiops altivelis 64 111 Teraponidae 291 173.2 Teraponidae Terapon jarbua 64 111 Teraponidae 291 173.3 Teraponidae Terapon theraps 64 111 Kuhliidae 293 164.1 Kuhliidae Kuhlia mugil 64 111 Priacanthidae 296 174.1 Priacanthidae Cookeolus japonicus 65 112 Priacanthidae 296 174.2 Priacanthidae Priacanthus cruentatus 65 1 112 Priacanthidae 296 174.3 Priacanthidae Priacanthus hamrur 65 1 112 Priacanthidae 296 174.- Priacanthidae Priacanthus sp. 65 112 Apogonidae 297 175.1 Apogonidae Apogon angustatus 65 113 Apogonidae 297 175.2 Apogonidae Apogon apogonides 65 113 Apogonidae 297 175.3 Apogonidae Apogon aureus 65 113 Apogonidae 297 175.4 Apogonidae Apogon coccineus 66 113 Apogonidae 297 175.5 Apogonidae Apogon cookii 66 113 Apogonidae 297 175.6 Apogonidae Apogon cyanosoma 66 113 Apogonidae 297 175.9 Apogonidae Apogon fraenatus 66 114 Apogonidae 297 175.12 Apogonidae Apogon kallopterus 66 114 Apogonidae 297 175.14 Apogonidae Apogon lateralis 66 114 Apogonidae 297 175.16 Apogonidae Apogon multitaeniatus 66 114 Apogonidae 297 175.20 Apogonidae Apogon quadrifasciatus 67 115 Apogonidae 297 175.22 Apogonidae Apogon savayensis 67 115 Apogonidae 297 175.23 Apogonidae Apogon semiomatus 67 115 Apogonidae 297 175.25 Apogonidae Apogon taeniophorus 67 115 Apogonidae 297 175.30 Apogonidae Archamia fucata 67 115 Apogonidae 297 175.36 Apogonidae Cheilodipterus lineatus 67 116 Apogonidae 297 175.45 Apogonidae Epigonus denticulatus 67 116 Apogonidae 297 175.47A Apogonidae Epigonus cf robustus A 68 1 116 Apogonidae 297 175.47B Apogonidae Epigonus cf robustus B 68 1 116 Apogonidae 297 175.48 Apogonidae Epigonus telescopus 68 116 Sillaginidae 299 198.1 Sillaginidae Sillago chondropus 68 117 Sillaginidae 299 198.3 Sillaginidae Sillago sihama 68 1 117 Malacanthidae 300 197.1 Malacanthidae Branchiostegus doliatus 68 117 Malacanthidae 300 197.2 Malacanthidae Branchiostegus sawakinensis 68 118 Malacanthidae 300 197.4 Malacanthidae Malacanthus brevirostris 68 118 Malacanthidae 300 197.5 Malacanthidae Malacanthus latovittatus 69 118 Pomatomidae 303 177.1 Scombropidae Scombrops boops 69 118 Pomatomidae 303 178.1 Pomatomidae Pomatomus saltatrix 69 1 118 Rachycentridae 304 212.1 Rachycentridae Rachycentron canadum 69 119 Echeneididae 305 213.1 Echeneidae Echeneis naucrates 70 119 Echeneididae 305 213.4 Echeneidae Remora brachyptera 70 119 Echeneididae 305 213.5 Echeneidae Remora remora 70 119 Carangidae 306 210.1 Carangidae Alectis ciliaris 70 120 Carangidae 306 210.2 Carangidae Alectis indicus 70 120 Carangidae 306 210.3 Carangidae Alepes djedaba 70 121 Carangidae 306 210.4 Carangidae Atule mate 70 121 Carangidae 306 210.6 Carangidae Carangoides caeruleopinnatus 70 121 Carangidae 306 210.9 Carangidae Carangoides equula 71 121 vii NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Carangidae 306 210.11 Carangidae Carangoides fulvoguttatus 71 121 Carangidae 306 210.12 Carangidae Carangoides gymnostethus 71 122 Carangidae 306 210.14 Carangidae Carangoides malabaricus 71 122 Carangidae 306 210.17 Carangidae Caranx ignobilis 71 122 Carangidae 306 210.19 Carangidae Caranx melampygus 71 122 Carangidae 306 210.20 Carangidae Caranx papuensis 71 122 Carangidae 306 210.21 Carangidae Caranx sent 71 123 Carangidae 306 210.22 Carangidae Caranx sexfasciatus 71 123 Carangidae 306 210.24 Carangidae Chloroscombrus chrysurus 71 123 Carangidae 306 210.26 Carangidae Decapterus macarellus 72 123 Carangidae 306 210.27 Carangidae Decapterus macrosoma 72 123 Carangidae 306 210.29 Carangidae Decapterus russelli 72 124 Carangidae 306 210.31 Carangidae Elagatis bipinnulata 72 124 Carangidae 306 210.32 Carangidae Gnathanodon speciosus 72 124 Carangidae 306 210.33 Carangidae Lichia amia 72 1 124 Carangidae 306 210.34 Carangidae Megalaspis cordyla 73 124 Carangidae 306 210.35 Carangidae Naucrates ductor 73 125 Carangidae 306 210.36 Carangidae Parastromateus niger 73 125 Carangidae 306 210.37 Carangidae Pseudocaranx dentex 73 125 Carangidae 306 210.38 Carangidae Scomberoides commersonnianus 73 125 Carangidae 306 210.39 Carangidae Scomberoides lysan 73 125 Carangidae 306 210.40 Carangidae Scomberoides tol 73 126 Carangidae 306 210.41 Carangidae Selar crumenophthalmus 73 126 Carangidae 306 210.44 Carangidae Seriola lalandi 74 1 126 Carangidae 306 210.45 Carangidae Seriola rivoliana 74 126 Carangidae 306 210.46 Carangidae Seriolina nigrofasciata 74 126 Carangidae 306 210.47 Carangidae Trachinotus africanus 74 1 127 Carangidae 306 210.50 Carangidae Trachinotus botla 74 127 Carangidae 306 210.51 Carangidae Trachurus delagoa 75 1 127 Carangidae 306 210.52 Carangidae Trachurus trachurus 75 1 127 Coryphaenidae 308 211.2 Coryphaenidae Coryphaena hippurus 75 127 Leiognathidae 311 201.1 Leiognathidae Gazza minuta 75 128 Leiognathidae 311 201.3 Leiognathidae Leiognathus equula 75 128 Leiognathidae 311 201.4 Leiognathidae Secutor insidiator 76 1 128 Bramidae 312 207.1 Bramidae Brama brama 76 1 129 Bramidae 312 207.2 Bramidae Brama orcini 76 129 Emmelichthyidae 315 209.1 Emmelichthyidae Emmelichthys nitidus nitidus 76 1 129 Emmelichthyidae 315 209.3 Emmelichthyidae Plagiogeneion rubiginosus 76 1 129 Lutjanidae 316 181.2 Lutjanidae Aphareus rutilans 77 130 Lutjanidae 316 181.3 Lutjanidae Apr ion virescens 77 1 131 Lutjanidae 316 181.4 Lutjanidae Etelis coruscans 77 131 Lutjanidae 316 181.5 Lutjanidae Lutjanus argentimaculatus 77 131 Lutjanidae 316 181.6 Lutjanidae Lutjanus bohar 77 131 Lutjanidae 316 181.8 Lutjanidae Lutjanus fulviflamma 77 131 Lutjanidae 316 181.9 Lutjanidae Lutjanus fulvus 78 132 Lutjanidae 316 181.10 Lutjanidae Lutjanus gibbus 78 132 Lutjanidae 316 181.11 Lutjanidae Lutjanus kasmira 78 1 132 Lutjanidae 316 181.13 Lutjanidae Lutjanus lutjanus 78 132 Lutjanidae 316 181.15 Lutjanidae Lutjanus notatus 78 132 Lutjanidae 316 181.16 Lutjanidae Lutjanus rivulatus 78 133 Lutjanidae 316 181.17 Lutjanidae Lutjanus russellii 78 1 133 Lutjanidae 316 181.18 Lutjanidae Lutjanus sanguineus 78 133 Lutjanidae 316 181.19 Lutjanidae Lutjanus sebae 79 133 Lutjanidae 316 181.20 Lutjanidae Macolor niger 79 133 Lutjanidae 316 181.- Lutjanidae Paracaesio sordida 79 134 Lutjanidae 316 181.21 Lutjanidae Paracaesio xanthura 79 134 Lutjanidae 316 181.- Lutjanidae Pristipomoides argyrogrammicus 79 134 Lutjanidae 316 181.22 Lutjanidae Pristipomoides jilamentosus 79 134 Lutjanidae 316 181.24 Lutjanidae Pristipomoides zonatus 79 134 Caesionidae 317 182.2 Caesionidae Caesio teres 80 135 Lobotidae 318 202.1 Lobotidae Lobotes surinamensis 80 135 Gerreidae 319 194.1 Gerreidae Gerres acinaces 80 135 Gerreidae 319 194.2 Gerreidae Gerres Jilamentosus 80 136 Gerreidae 319 194.3 Gerreidae Gerres oblongus 80 136 Gerreidae 319 194.4 Gerreidae Gerres oyena 81 136 Gerreidae 319 194.5 Gerreidae Gerres rappi 81 136 Haemulidae 320 179.1 Haemulidae Dia gramma pictum 81 137 Haemulidae 320 179.2 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus chubbi 81 137 Haemulidae 320 179.3 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus 81 138 Haemulidae 320 179.4 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus gaterinus 81 138 Haemulidae 320 179.5 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus gibbosus 82 138 Haemulidae 320 179.6 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus plagiodesmus 82 138 Haemulidae 320 179.7 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus playfairi 82 138 viii NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Haemulidae 320 179.8 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus schotaf 82 139 Haemulidae 320 179.9 Haemulidae Plectorhinchus sordidus 82 139 Haemulidae 320 179.10 Haemulidae Pomadasys commersonnii 82 1 139 Haemulidae 320 179.11 Haemulidae Pomadasys furcatum 82 139 Haemulidae 320 179.13 Haemulidae Pomadasys kaakan 82 139 Haemulidae 320 179.15 Haemulidae Pomadasys maculatum 82 139 Haemulidae 320 179.16 Haemulidae Pomadasys multimaculatum 83 140 Haemulidae 320 179.17 Haemulidae Pomadasys olivaceum 83 1 140 Haemulidae 320 179.18 Haemulidae Pomadasys striatum 83 1 140 Haemulidae 320 179.19 Haemulidae Pomadasys stridens 83 140 Sparidae 322 183.1 Sparidae Acanthopagrus berda 83 1 142 Sparidae 322 183.2 Sparidae Acanthopagrus bifasciatus 83 142 Sparidae 322 183.3 Sparidae Argryrops filamentosus 84 142 Sparidae 322 183.4 Sparidae Argryrops spinifer 84 143 Sparidae 322 183.5 Sparidae Argyrozona argyrozona 84 1 143 Sparidae 322 183.6 Sparidae Boopsoidea inomata 84 1 143 Sparidae 322 183.7 Sparidae Cheimerius nufar 84 1 143 Sparidae 322 183.8 Sparidae Chrysoblephus anglicus 85 1 144 Sparidae 322 183.9 Sparidae Chrysoblephus cristiceps 85 1 144 Sparidae 322 183.10 Sparidae Chrysoblephus gibbiceps 85 1 144 Sparidae 322 183.11 Sparidae Chrysoblephus laticeps 85 1 144 Sparidae 322 183.12 Sparidae Chrysoblephus lophus 85 144 Sparidae 322 183.13 Sparidae Chrysoblephus puniceus 86 1 145 Sparidae 322 183.14 Sparidae Crenidens crenidens 86 145 Sparidae 322 183.15 Sparidae Cymatoceps nasutus 86 1 145 Sparidae 322 183.16 Sparidae Diplodus cervinus hottentotus 86 1 145 Sparidae 322 183.17 Sparidae Diplodus sargus capensis 86 1 145 Sparidae 322 183.18 Sparidae Gymnocrotaphus curvidens 87 1 146 Sparidae 322 183.19 Sparidae Lithognathus aureti 87 1 146 Sparidae 322 183.20 Sparidae Lithognathus lithognathus 87 1 146 Sparidae 322 183.21 Sparidae Lithognathus mormyrus 87 1 146 Sparidae 322 183.22 Sparidae Pachymetopon aeneum 87 1 146 Sparidae 322 183.23 Sparidae Pachymetopon blochii 88 147 Sparidae 322 183.24 Sparidae Pachymetopon grande 88 1 147 Sparidae 322 183.25 Sparidae Pagellus bellottii natalensis 88 1 147 Sparidae 322 183.26 Sparidae Petrus rupestris 88 1 147 Sparidae 322 183.27 Sparidae Polyamblyodon germanum 89 147 Sparidae 322 183.28 Sparidea Polyamblyodon gibbosum 89 148 Sparidae 322 183.29 Sparidae Polysteganus coeruleopunctatus 89 148 Sparidae 322 183.31 Sparidae Polysteganus praeorbitalis 89 1 148 Sparidae 322 183.32 Sparidae Polysteganus undulosus 90 1 148 Sparidae 322 183.33 Sparidae Porcostoma dentata 90 1 148 Sparidae 322 183.34 Sparidae Pterogymnus laniarius 90 1 149 Sparidae 322 183.35 Sparidae Rhabdosargus globiceps 90 1 149 Sparidae 322 183.36 Sparidae Rhabdosargus holubi 90 1 149 Sparidae 322 183.37 Sparidae Rhabdosargus sarba 90 1 149 Sparidae 322 183.38 Sparidae Rhabdosargus thorpei 91 149 Sparidae 322 183.39 Sparidae Sarpa salpa 91 1 150 Sparidae 322 183.40 Sparidae Sparodon durbanensis 91 1 150 Sparidae 322 183.41 Sparidae Spondyliosoma emarginatum 91 1 150 Centracanthidae 323 184.1 Centracanthidae Spicara australis 91 150 Centracanthidae 323 184.2 Centracanthidae Spicara axillaris 91-92 1 151 Lethrinidae 324 185.1 Lethrinidae Gnathodentex aureolineatus 92 151 Lethrinidae 324 185.2 Lethrinidae Gymnocranius griseus 92 1 152 Lethrinidae 324 185.3 Lethrinidae Gymnocranius robinsoni 92 152 Lethrinidae 324 185.5 Lethrinidae Lethrinus crocineus 92 152 Lethrinidae 324 185.6 Lethrinidae Lethrinus elongatus 92 1 152 Lethrinidae 324 185.11 Lethrinidae Lethrinus mahsena 92 152 Lethrinidae 324 185.12 Lethrinidae Lethrinus mahsenoides 92 1 153 Lethrinidae 324 185.13 Lethrinidae Lethrinus nebulosus 93 1 153 Lethrinidae 324 185.15 Lethrinidae Lethrinus rubrioperculatus 93 153 Lethrinidae 324 185.16 Lethrinidae Lethrinus sanguineus 93 153 Lethrinidae 324 185.17 Lethrinidae Lethrinus variegatus 93 153 Lethrinidae 324 185.19 Lethrinidae Monotaxis grandoculis 93 154 Nemipteridae 325 186,1 Nemipteridae Nemipterus bipunctatus 93 154 Nemipteridae 325 186.3 Nemipteridae Parascolopsis eriomma 93 154 Nemipteridae 325 186.6 Nemipteridae Scolopsis vosmeri 93 154 Sciaenidae 326 199. 1A Sciaenidae Argyrosomus hololepidotus A 94 1 155 Sciaenidae 326 199. IB Sciaenidae Argyrosomus hololepidotus B 94 1 155 Sciaenidae 326 199.2 Sciaenidae Argyrosomus thorpei 94 1 156 Sciaenidae 326 199.3 Sciaenidae Atractoscion aequidens 94 1 156 Sciaenidae 326 199.4 Sciaenidae Atrobucca nibe 94 1 156 Sciaenidae 326 199.5 Sciaenidae Johnius amblycephalus 95 1 156 ix NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Sciaenidae 326 199.6 Sciaenidae Johnius dussumieri 95 1 156 Sciaenidae 326 199.7 Sciaenidae Otolithes ruber 95 1 157 Sciaenidae 326 199.8 Sciaenidae Umbrina canariensis 95 1 157 Sciaenidae 326 199.9 Sciaenidae Umbrina ronchus 95 157 Mullidae 327 196.1 Mullidae Mulloides flavolineatus 96 157 Mullidae 327 196.3 Mullidae Parupeneus barberinus 96 158 Mullidae 327 196.4 Mullidae Parupeneus bifasciatus 96 158 Mullidae 327 196.5 Mullidae Parupeneus cinnabarinus 96 158 Mullidae 327 196.6 Mullidae Parupeneus cyclostomus 96 158 Mullidae 327 196.7 Mullidae Parupeneus indicus 96 159 Mullidae 327 196.8 Mullidae Parupeneus macronema 96 159 Mullidae 327 196.9 Mullidae Parupeneus pleurostigma 97 159 Mullidae 327 196.10 Mullidae Parupeneus rubescens 97 1 159 Mullidae 327 196.12 Mullidae Upeneus tragula 97 159 Mullidae 327 196.13 Mullidae Upeneus vittatus 97 159 Monodactylidae 328 193.1 Monodactylidae Monodactylus argenteus 97 160 Monodactylidae 328 193.2 Monodactylidae Monodactylus falciformis 97 1 160 Pempherididae 329 216.2 Pempheridae Pempheris adusta 98 160 Pempherididae 329 216.3 Pempheridae Pempheris mangula 98 161 Coracinidae 333 187.1 Coracinidae Coracinus capensis 98 161 Coracinidae 333 187.2 Coracinidae Coracinus multifasciatus 98 161 Kyphosidae 334 188.1 Parascorpididae Parascorpis typus 98 161 Kyphosidae 334 189.1 Kyphosidae Kyphosus bigibbus 98 162 Kyphosidae 334 189.2 Kyphosidae Kyphosus cinerascens 99 162 Kyphosidae 334 189.3 Kyphosidae Kyphosus vaigiensis 99 162 Kyphosidae 334 190.1 Scorpididae Neoscorpis lithophilus 99 162 Ephippididae 335 192.1 Ephippidae Platax orbicularis 99 163 Ephippididae 335 192.2 Ephippidae Platax pinnatus 99 163 Ephippididae 335 192.4 Ephippidae Tripterodon orbis 99 163 Ephippididae 335 195.1 Drepanidae Drepane longimanus 99 163 Chaetodontidae 338 205.1 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon auriga 100 164 Chaetodontidae 338 205.3 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon blackbumii 100 1 164 Chaetodontidae 338 205.4 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon dolosus 100 164 Chaetodontidae 338 205.5 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon falcula 100 164 Chaetodontidae 338 205.6 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon guttatissimus 100 164 Chaetodontidae 338 205.7 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon kleinii 100 165 Chaetodontidae 338 205.9 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon lunula 101 165 Chaetodontidae 338 205.10 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon madagaskariensis 101 1 165 Chaetodontidae 338 205.11 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon marleyi 101 165 Chaetodontidae 338 205.12 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon melannotus 101 165 Chaetodontidae 338 205.13 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon meyeri 101 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.- Chaetodontidae Chaetodon mitratus 101 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.14 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon trifascialis 101 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.15 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon trifasciatus 101 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.16 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon unimaculatus 102 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.17 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon vagabundus 102 166 Chaetodontidae 338 205.18 Chaetodontidae Chaetodon xanthocephalus 102 167 Chaetodontidae 338 205.20 Chaetodontidae Forcipiger flavissimus 102 167 Chaetodontidae 338 205.21 Chaetodontidae Hemitaurichthys zoster 102 167 Chaetodontidae 338 205.22 Chaetodontidae Heniochus acuminatus 102 167 Chaetodontidae 338 205.24 Chaetodontidae Heniochus monoceros 102 167 Pomacanthidae 339 204.2 Pomacanthidae Apolemichthys trimaculatus 103 168 Pomacanthidae 339 204.3 Pomacanthidae Centropyge acanthops 103 168 Pomacanthidae 339 204.4 Pomacanthidae Centropyge bispinosus 103 168 Pomacanthidae 339 204.5 Pomacanthidae Centropyge multispinis 103 168 Pomacanthidae 339 204.6 Pomacanthidae Genicanthus caudovittatus 103 169 Pomacanthidae 339 204.7 Pomacanthidae Pomacanthus annularis 103 169 Pomacanthidae 339 204.8 Pomacanthidae Pomacanthus chrysurus 103 169 Pomacanthidae 339 204.9 Pomacanthidae Pomacanthus imperator 103 169 Pomacanthidae 339 204.12 Pomacanthidae Pomacanthus rhomboides 104 169 Pomacanthidae 339 204.11 Pomacanthidae Pomacanthus semicirculatus 104 170 Pomacanthidae 339 204.13 Pomacanthidae Pygoplites diacanthus 104 170 Pentacerotidae 341 203.1 Pentacerotidae Histiopterus typus 104 170 Oplegnathidae 343 206.1 Oplegnathidae Oplegnathus conwayi 104 170 Oplegnathidae 343 206.3 Oplegnathidae Oplegnathus robinsoni 104 171 Cichlidae 344 218.1 Cichlidae Oreochromis mossambicus 105 1 171 Pomacentridae 346 219.4 Pomacentridae Abudefduf sexfasciatus 105 172 Pomacentridae 346 219.5 Pomacentridae Abudefduf sordidus 105 172 Pomacentridae 346 219.6 Pomacentridae Abudefduf sparoides 105 172 Pomacentridae 346 219.7 Pomacentridae Abudefduf vaigiensis 105 172 Pomacentridae 346 219.8 Pomacentridae Amphiprion akallopisos 105 173 Pomacentridae 346 219.9 Pomacentridae Amphiprion allardi 106 173 Pomacentridae 346 219.13 Pomacentridae Chromis dasygenys 106 173 X NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Pomacentridae 346 219.14 Pomacentridae Chromis dimidiata 106 1 173 Pomacentridae 346 219.16 Pomacentridae Chromis nigrura 106 173 Pomacentridae 346 219.17 Pomacentridae Chromis opercularis 106 174 Pomacentridae 346 219.12 Pomacentridae Chromis viridis 106 174 Pomacentridae 346 219.19 Pomacentridae Chromis weberi 107 174 Pomacentridae 346 219.23 Pomacentridae Chrysiptera leucopoma 107 174 Pomacentridae 346 219.26 Pomacentridae Dascyllus cameus 107 174 Pomacentridae 346 219.27 Pomacentridae Dascyllus trimaculatus 107 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.28 Pomacentridae Lepidozygus tapeinosoma 107 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.29 Pomacentridae Neopomacentrus cyanomos 107 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.33 Pomacentridae Plectroglyphidodon dickii 107 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.36 Pomacentridae Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus 107 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.37 Pomacentridae Plectroglyphidodon leucozonus 108 175 Pomacentridae 346 219.41 Pomacentridae Pomacentrus trichourus 108 176 Pomacentridae 346 219.42 Pomacentridae Pomacentrus trilineatus 108 176 Cirrhitidae 348 214.1 Cirrhitidae Amblycirrhitus bimacula 108 176 Cirrhitidae 348 214.2 Cirrhitidae Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus 108 177 Cirrhitidae 348 214.3 Cirrhitidae Cirrhitus pinnulatus 108 177 Cirrhitidae 348 214.5 Cirrhitidae Cyprinocirrhites polyactis 108 177 Cirrhitidae 348 214.6 Cirrhitidae Paracirrhites arcatus 109 177 Cirrhitidae 348 214.7 Cirrhitidae Paracirrhites forsteri 109 177 Cheilodactylidae 351 215.1 Cheilodactylidae Cheilodactylus fasciatus 109 1 178 Cheilodactylidae 351 215.2 Cheilodactylidae Cheilodactylus pixi 109 1 178 Cheilodactylidae 351 215.3 Cheilodactylidae Chirodactylus brachydactylus 109 1 178 Cheilodactylidae 351 215.4 Cheilodactylidae Chirodactylus grandis 110 1 178 Cheilodactylidae 351 215.5 Cheilodactylidae Chirodactylus jessicalenorum 110 179 Cepolidae 354 226.- Cepolidae Owstonia cf. weberi 110 179 Mugilidae 355 222.1 Mugilidae Crenimugil crenilabis 110 180 Mugilidae 355 222.2 Mugilidae Liza alata 110 180 Mugilidae 355 222.3 Mugilidae Liza dumerilii 110 1 180 Mugilidae 355 222.5 Mugilidae Liza macrolepis 111 180 Mugilidae 355 222.7 Mugilidae Liza richardsonii 111 1 180 Mugilidae 355 222.8 Mugilidae Liza tricuspidens 111 1 181 Mugilidae 355 222.10 Mugilidae Mugil cephalus 111 1 181 Mugilidae 355 222.11 Mugilidae Myxus capensis 111 1 181 Mugilidae 355 222.12 Mugilidae Valamugil buchanani 112 181 Mugilidae 355 222.14 Mugilidae Valamugil robustus 112 181 Mugilidae 355 222.15 Mugilidae Valamugil seheli 112 182 Sphyraenidae 356 224.1 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena acutipinnis 112 1 182 Sphyraenidae 356 224.4 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena chrysotaenia 112 182 Sphyraenidae 356 224.5 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena flavicauda 112 182 Sphyraenidae 356 224.6 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena forsteri 112 183 Sphyraenidae 356 224.7 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena jello 113 183 Sphyraenidae 356 224.9 Sphyraenidae Sphyraena putnamiae 113 183 Polynemidae 357 223.2 Polynemidae Polydactylus plebeius 113 183 Polynemidae 357 223.3 Polynemidae Polydactylus sextarius 113 184 Polynemidae 357 223.- Polynemidae Polydactylus sp. 113 184 Labridae 358 220.1 Labridae Anampses caeruleopunctatus 113 185 Labridae 358 220.2 Labridae Anampses lineatus 113 185 Labridae 358 220.3 Labridae Anampses meleagrides 114 185 Labridae 358 220.4 Labridae Anchichoerops natalensis 114 186 Labridae 358 220.5 Labridae Bodianus anthioides 114 186 Labridae 358 220.7 Labridae Bodianus bilunulatus 114 186 Labridae 358 220.8 Labridae Bodianus diana 114 186 Labridae 358 220.10 Labridae Bodianus perditio 114 186 Labridae 358 220.13 Labridae Cheilinus digrammus 114 187 Labridae 358 220.16 Labridae Cheilinus undulatus 115 187 Labridae 358 220.17 Labridae Cheilio inermis 115 187 Labridae 358 220.20 Labridae Coris aygula 115 187 Labridae 358 220.21 Labridae Coris caudimacula 115 187 Labridae 358 220.23 Labridae Coris gaimard africana 115 188 Labridae 358 220.24 Labridae Cymolutes praetextatus 115 188 Labridae 358 220.26 Labridae Epibulus insidiator 115 188 Labridae 358 220.27 Labridae Gomphosus caeruleus 116 188 Labridae 358 220.28 Labridae Halichoeres cosmetus 116 188 Labridae 358 220.30 Labridae Halichoeres hortulanus 116 188 Labridae 358 220.36 Labridae Hemigymnus fasciatus 116 189 Labridae 358 220.38 Labridae Hologymnosus doliatus 116 189 Labridae 358 220.41 Labridae Labroides dimidiatus 116 189 Labridae 358 220.48 Labridae Pseudocheilinus hexataenia 116 189 Labridae 358 220.52 Labridae Pteragogus flagellifer 117 189 Labridae 358 220.53 Labridae Pteragogus pelycus 117 190 Labridae 358 220.55 Labridae Stethojulis albovittata 117 190 xi NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Labridae 358 220.56 Labridae Stethojulis interrupta 117 1 190 Labridae 358 220.57 Labridae Stethojulis strigiventer 117 190 Labridae 358 220.58 Labridae Thalassoma amblycephalum 117 190 Labridae 358 220.61 Labridae Thalassoma hebraicum 117 190 Labridae 358 220.62 Labridae Thalassoma lunare 117 191 Labridae 358 220.63 Labridae Thalassoma purpureum 118 191 Labridae 358 220.65 Labridae Thalassoma trilobatum 118 191 Labridae 358 220.67 Labridae Xyrichtys pavo 118 191 Scaridae 360 221.2 Scaridae Calotomus spinidens 118 191 Scaridae 360 221.3 Scaridae Leptoscarus vaigiensis 118 192 Scaridae 360 221.5 Scaridae Hipposcarus harid 118 192 Scaridae 360 221.8 Scaridae Scarus cyanescens 118 192 Scaridae 360 221.11 Scaridae Scarus ghobban 119 192 Scaridae 360 221.13 Scaridae Scarus niger 119 192 Scaridae 360 221.14 Scaridae Scarus psittacus 119 193 Scaridae 360 221.15 Scaridae Scarus rubroviolaceus 119 193 Scaridae 360 221.17 Scaridae Scarus scaber 119 193 Scaridae 360 221.18 Scaridae Scarus sordidus 119 193 Zoarcidae 362 94.1 Zoarcidae Lycodes agulhensis 119 193 Zoarcidae 362 94.3 Zoarcidae Melanostigma gelatinosum 120 194 Zoarcidae 362 94.- Zoarcidae Pachycara crassiceps 120 194 Opistognathidae 375 225.2 Opistognathidae Opistognathus muscatensis 120 194 Congrogadidae 376 227.1 Congrogadidae Halidesmus scapularis 120 1 194 Chiasmodontidae 377 228.6 Chiasmodontidae Kali macrodon 120 194 Champsodontidae 378 229.1 Champsodontidae Champsodon capensis 120 1 195 Uranoscopidae 383 230.2 Uranoscopidae Uranoscopus archionema 120 1 195 Percophidae 387 233.1 Percophidae Bembrops platyrhynchus 121 195 Percophidae 387 233.- Percophidae Bembrops sp. 121 195 Mugiloididae 388 234.2 Mugiloididae Parapercis maritzi 121 196 Mugiloididae 388 234.4 Mugiloididae Parapercis punctulata 121 196 Mugiloididae 388 234.5 Mugiloididae Parapercis robinsoni 121 196 Tripterygiidae 390 236.1 Tripterygiidae Cremnochorites capensis 121 1 196 Tripterygiidae 390 236.8 Tripterygiidae Helcogramma obtusirostre 121 197 Clinidae 393 237.1 Clinidae Blennioclinus brachycephalus 122 1 197 Clinidae 393 237.2 Clinidae Blennioclinus Stella 122 197 Clinidae 393 237.3 Clinidae Blennophis anguillaris 122 197 Clinidae 393 237.4 Clinidae Blennophis striatus 122 197 Clinidae 393 237.7 Clinidae Cirrhibarbis capensis 122 1 198 Clinidae 393 237.8 Clinidae Climacoporus navalis 122 1 198 Clinidae 393 237.9 Clinidae Clinoporus biporosus 122 198 Clinidae 393 237.12 Clinidae Clinus berrisfordi 123 198 Clinidae 393 237.14 Clinidae Clinus cottoides 123 1 198 Clinidae 393 237.15 Clinidae Clinus helenae 123 199 Clinidae 393 237.19 Clinidae Clinus robustus 123 199 Clinidae 393 237.22 Clinidae Clinus superciliosus 123 1 199 Clinidae 393 237.23 Clinidae Clinus taurus 123 1 199 Clinidae 393 237.24 Clinidae Clinus venustris 124 1 199 Clinidae 393 237.26 Clinidae Fucomimus mus 124 199 Clinidae 393 237.27 Clinidae Muraenoclinus dorsalis 124 200 Clinidae 393 237.28 Clinidae Pavoclinus graminis 124 1 200 Clinidae 393 237.30 Clinidae Pavoclinus laurentii 124 200 Clinidae 393 237.32 Clinidae Pavoclinus mentalis 124 200 Clinidae 393 237.34 Clinidae Pavoclinus pavo 124 1 200 Clinidae 393 237.35 Clinidae Pavoclinus profundus 125 200 Clinidae 393 237.38 Clinidae Xenopoclinus leprosus 125 201 Blenniidae 395 235.2 Blenniidae Antennablennius australis 125 201 Blenniidae 395 235.7 Blenniidae Chalaroderma ocellata 125 201 Blenniidae 395 235.9 Blenniidae Cirripectes castaneus 125 202 Blenniidae 395 235.10 Blenniidae Ecsenius midas 125 202 Blenniidae 395 235.14 Blenniidae Exallias brevis 125 202 Blenniidae 395 235.17 Blenniidae Istiblennius dussumieri 125 202 Blenniidae 395 235.18 Blenniidae Istiblennius edentulus 126 202 Blenniidae 395 235.25 Blenniidae Omobranchus banditus 126 202 Blenniidae 395 235.30 Blenniidae Omobranchus woodi 126 203 Blenniidae 395 235.31 Blenniidae Parablennius comutus 126 203 Blenniidae 395 235.33 Blenniidae Parablennius pilicomis 126 203 Blenniidae 395 235.34 Blenniidae Pereulixia kosiensis 126 203 Blenniidae 395 235.38 Blenniidae Plagiotremus tapeinosoma 126 203 Blenniidae 395 235.40 Blenniidae Scartella emarginata 127 203 Blenniidae 395 235.42 Blenniidae Xiphasia setifer 127 204 Ammodytidae 398 238.2 Ammodytidae Gymnammodytes capensis 127 204 Callionymidae 399 239.1 Callionymidae Callionymus filamentosus 127 204 Callionymidae 399 239.6 Callionymidae Paracallionymus costatus 127 1 204 xii NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Callionymidae 399 239.8 Callionymidae Synchiropus monacanthus 127 205 Eleotrididae 402 241.4 Eleotridae Eleotris fusca 128 205 Gobiidae 403 240.19 Gobiidae Caffrogobius agulhensis 128 206 Gobiidae 403 240.20 Gobiidae Caffrogobius caffer 128 206 Gobiidae 403 240.21 Gobiidae Caffrogobius multifasciatus 128 206 Gobiidae 403 240.23 Gobiidae Caffrogobius nudiceps 128 1 206 Gobiidae 403 240.24 Gobiidae Caffrogobius saldanha 128 1 206 Gobiidae 403 240.43 Gobiidae Glossogobius callidus 129 206 Gobiidae 403 240.47 Gobiidae Gobiodon citrinus 129 207 Gobiidae 403 240.56 Gobiidae Istigobius decoratus 129 207 Gobiidae 403 240.57 Gobiidae Istigobius omatus 129 207 Gobiidae 403 240.64 Gobiidae Nemateleotris magniffca 129 207 Gobiidae 403 240.71 Gobiidae Oxyurichthys papuensis 129 207 Gobiidae 403 240.73 Gobiidae Parachaeturichthys polynema 129 208 Gobiidae 403 240.84 Gobiidae Priolepis cincta 129 208 Gobiidae 403 240.87 Gobiidae Psammogobius knysnaensis 129 208 Gobiidae 403 240.97 Gobiidae Sufflogobius bibarbatus 129 1 208 Gobiidae 403 240.107 Gobiidae Yongeichthys nebulosus 129 208 Acanthuridae 409 243.1 Acanthuridae Acanthurus blochii 130 209 Acanthuridae 409 243.2 Acanthuridae Acanthurus dussumieri 130 209 Acanthuridae 409 243.3 Acanthuridae Acanthurus leucostemon 130 209 Acanthuridae 409 243.4 Acanthuridae Acanthurus lineatus 130 209 Acanthuridae 409 243.7 Acanthuridae Acanthurus nigrofuscus 130 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.9 Acanthuridae Acanthurus tennenti 130 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.11 Acanthuridae Acanthurus triostegus 131 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.12 Acanthuridae Acanthurus xanthopterus 131 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.14 Acanthuridae Ctenochaetus striatus 131 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.15 Acanthuridae Ctenochaetus strigosus 131 210 Acanthuridae 409 243.16 Acanthuridae Paracanthurus hepatus 131 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.17 Acanthuridae Zebrasoma gemmatum 131 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.18 Acanthuridae Zebrasoma scopas 131 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.19 Acanthuridae Zebrasoma veliferum 132 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.20 Acanthuridae Naso annulatus 132 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.22 Acanthuridae Naso brevirostris 132 211 Acanthuridae 409 243.29 Acanthuridae Naso tuberosus 132 212 Acanthuridae 409 244.1 Zanclidae Zanclus canescens 132 212 Siganidae 410 245.- Siganidae Siganus argenteus 132 212 Siganidae 410 245.1 Siganidae Siganus stellatus 132 213 Siganidae 410 245.2 Siganidae Siganus sutor 132 213 Gempylidae 412 247.2 Gempylidae Gempylus serpens 133 213 Gempylidae 412 247.4 Gempylidae Neoepinnula orientalis 133 1 213 Gempylidae 412 247.- Gempylidae Promethichthys prometheus 133 214 Gempylidae 412 247.6 Gempylidae Rexea promethoides 133 214 Gempylidae 412 247.8 Gempylidae Thyrsites atun 133 1 214 Gempylidae 412 247.9 Gempylidae Thyrsitoides marleyi 133 214 Trichiuridae 413 248.3 Trichiuridae Benthodesmus elongatus elongatus 134 215 Trichiuridae 413 248.4 Trichiuridae Lepidopus caudatus 134 1 215 Trichiuridae 413 248.6 Trichiuridae Trichiurus lepturus 134 1 215 Scombridae 414 249.1 Scombridae Acanthocybium solandri 134 1 216 Scombridae 414 249.4 Scombridae Euthynnus affinis 134 216 Scombridae 414 249.6 Scombridae Gymnosarda unicolor 135 216 Scombridae 414 249.7 Scombridae Katsuwonus pelamis 135 217 Scombridae 414 249.8 Scombridae Rastrelliger kanagurta 135 217 Scombridae 414 249.9 Scombridae Sarda orientalis 135 217 Scombridae 414 249.10 Scombridae Sarda sarda 135 217 Scombridae 414 249.11 Scombridae Scomber japonicus 135 1 217 Scombridae 414 249.12 Scombridae Scomberomorus commerson 135 218 Scombridae 414 249.13 Scombridae Scomberomorus plurilineatus 136 218 Scombridae 414 249.14 Scombridae Thunnus alalunga 136 218 Scombridae 414 249.15 Scombridae Thunnus albacares 136 218 Scombridae 414 249.16 Scombridae Thunnus maccoyii 136 219 Scombridae 414 249.18 Scombridae Thunnus thynnus thynnus 136 219 Xiphiidae 415 251.1 Xiphiidae Xiphias gladius 136 219 Istiophoridae 417 252.2 Istiophoridae Makaira indica 136 219 Nomeidae 420 255.1 Nomeidae Ariomma indica 136 1 220 Nomeidae 420 255.3 Nomeidae Cubiceps baxteri 137 220 Nomeidae 420 255.4 Nomeidae Cubiceps caeruleus 137 1 220 Nomeidae 420 255.5 Nomeidae Cubiceps capensis 137 220 Nomeidae 420 255.6 Nomeidae Cubiceps pauciradiatus 137 220 Nomeidae 420 255.7 Nomeidae Nomeus gronovii 137 221 Nomeidae 420 255.12 Nomeidae Psenes whiteleggii 137 1 221 Tetragonuridae 422 256.2 Tetragonuridae Tetragonurus cuvieri 137 221 Stromateidae 423 254.1 Stromateidae Centrolophus niger 137 222 xiii NELSON FAMILY N# SSF# SSF FAMILY SPECIES PLATE TABLE PAGE Stromateidae 423 254.2 Stromateidae Hyperoglyphe antarctica 138 222 Stromateidae 423 254.3 Stromateidae Hyperoglyphe moselii 138 222 Stromateidae 423 254.6 Stromateidae Schedophilus huttoni 138 1 222 Stromateidae 423 254.8 Stromateidae Schedophilus ovalis 138 222 Stromateidae 423 254.10 Stromateidae Stromateus fiatola 138 1 222 ORDER: PLEURONECTIFORMES 223 Psettodidae 432 257.1 Psettodidae Psettodes erumei 138 223 Psettodidae 432 257.- Psettodidae Psettodes sp. 138 223 Citharidae 433 258.1 Citharidae Citharoides macrolepis 139 1 223 Bothidae 434 259.1 Bothidae Amoglossus capensis 139 1 224 Bothidae 434 259.3 Bothidae Bothus mancus 139 224 Bothidae 434 259.- Bothidae Chascanopsetta sp. - Kenya 140 224 Bothidae 434 259.- Bothidae Chascanopsetta sp. - Natal & Mozambique 140 224 Bothidae 434 259.- Bothidae Chascanopsetta sp. - Cape 140 225 Bothidae 434 259.13 Bothidae Laeops pectoralis 141 225 Bothidae 434 259.17 Bothidae Pseudorhombus arsius 141 225 Pleuronectidae 435 260.2 Pleuronectidae Paralichthodes algoensis 141 226 Pleuronectidae 435 260.3 Pleuronectidae Poecilopsetta natalensis 142 226 Pleuronectidae 435 260.5 Pleuronectidae Samariscus triocellatus 142 226 Cynoglossidae 436 261.2 Cynoglossidae Cynoglossus attenuatus 142 226 Cynoglossidae 436 261.3 Cynoglossidae Cynoglossus capensis 143 1 227 Cynoglossidae 436 261.- Cynoglossidae Cynoglossus cf. capensis - Mozambique 143 227 Cynoglossidae 436 261.8 Cynoglossidae Cynoglossus marleyi 143-144 227 Cynoglossidae 436 261.9 Cynoglossidae Cynoglossus zanzibarensis 144 1 227 Soleidae 437 262.1 Soleidae Aesopia cornu ta 144 228 Soleidae 437 262.2 Soleidae Austroglossus micro lepis 144-145 1 228 Soleidae 437 262.3 Soleidae Austroglossus pectoralis 145 1 228 Soleidae 437 262.5 Soleidae Heteromycteris capensis 145 228 Soleidae 437 262.12 Soleidae Solea bleekeri 146 1 229 Soleidae 437 262.13 Soleidae Solea fulvomarginata 146 229 Soleidae 437 262.14 Soleidae Synaptura marginata 146 229 Soleidae 437 262.15 Soleidae Synapturichthys kleini 146 229 ORDER: TETRAODONTIFORMES 229 Triacanthodidae 438 265.- Triacanthodidae Macrorhamphosodes sp. 147 229 Balistidae 440 263.2 Balistidae Balistapus undulatus 147 230 Balistidae 440 263.6 Balistidae Canthidermis maculatus 147 230 Balistidae 440 263.7 Balistidae Melichthys indicus 147 230 Balistidae 440 263.10 Balistidae Odonus niger 147 230 Balistidae 440 263.13 Balistidae Rhinecanthus aculeatus 147 230 Balistidae 440 263.16 Balistidae Sufflamen chrysopterus 147 231 Balistidae 440 263.17 Balistidae Sufflamen fraenatus 147 231 Balistidae 440 264.1 Monacanthidae Aluterus monoceros 147 231 Balistidae 440 264.6 Monacanthidae Cantherhines pardalis 147 231 Balistidae 440 264.11 Monacanthidae Pervagor janthinosoma 148 232 Balistidae 440 264.15 Monacanthidae Thamnaconus fajardoi 148 232 Balistidae 440 264.16 Monacanthidae Thamnaconus modestoides 148 232 Ostraciidae 441 266.5 Ostraciidae Lactoria fomasini 148 232 Ostraciidae 441 266.6 Ostraciidae Ostracion cubicus 148 232 Tetraodontidae 443 268.1 Tetraodontidae Amblyrhynchotes honckenii 148 233 Tetraodontidae 443 268.2 Tetraodontidae Arothron hispidus 148 233 Tetraodontidae 443 268.8 Tetraodontidae Arothron stellatus 149 233 Tetraodontidae 443 268.15 Tetraodontidae Canthigaster solandri 149 233 Tetraodontidae 443 268.19 Tetraodontidae Lagocephalus Iguentheri 149 233 Tetraodontidae 443 268.20 Tetraodontidae Lagocephalus inermis 149 234 Tetraodontidae 443 268.23 Tetraodontidae Lagocephalus scleratus 149 234 Tetraodontidae 443 268.25 Tetraodontidae Sphoeroides pachygaster 149 234 Diodontidae 444 269.6 Diodontidae Diodon hystrix 149 234 Acknowledgements . 234 References . 235 References . 235 Alphabetical species list . 237 Table 1 . Regression data . 244 Plates . 1-149 xiv OTOLITH ATLAS OF SOUTHERN AFRICAN MARINE FISHES by Malcolm J. Smale1, Gillian Watson1, Thomas Hecht2 INTRODUCTION Otoliths have long been recognised as anatomical structures that are species specific and therefore useful to identify fishes in paleoichthyology (Fitch, 1967; Nolf, 1985) and in studies of trophic relations of predators (Fitch & Brownell, 1968; Ross, 1984). Systematic collection of otoliths and their use in prey identification began in the 1960s (Fitch & Brownell, 1968; Pinkas, Oliphant & Iverson, 1971; Ross, 1984; Fitch & Craig, 1984). Their use in feeding studies has considerably advanced understanding of marine food webs, particularly at upper trophic levels (Batchelor & Ross, 1984; Smale & Bruton, 1985; Smale, 1986a, b, 1987; Klages, Willis & Ross, 1992; Sekiguchi, Klages & Best, 1992). The present work is the culmination of some 20 years of otolith collection in southern Africa. Although previous atlases have been published on otoliths (Morrow, 1979; Hecht, 1987; Harkonen, 1986; Williams & McEldowney, 1990), this is the first atlas for the marine fishes of southern Africa. A total of 972 species representing about 181 families are described and illus¬ trated. This adas is intended primarily as a reference aid to researchers attempting to identify teleost otoliths from the gut contents of piscivorous predators, fish remains in ar¬ chaeological middens, or otoliths from other sources off southern Africa. The fish fauna of this region is extremely diverse with more than 2150 species in approximately 270 families (Smith & Heemstra, 1986). Furthermore, new taxa are being discovered every year as research continues and poorly sampled areas are investigated in more detail. Smith & Heemstra (1986) provide a description of the area and a brief summary of the oceanography. The southern African fish fauna comprises species from the Indian, Atlantic and Southern Oceans and includes tropical, subtropical and tem¬ perate fishes from the estuarine, intertidal, continental shelf, slope, abyssal and pelagic zones. Although this atlas of fish otoliths is not primarily intended to be a contribution to the systematics of teleosts, it is hoped that the differences within families and similari¬ ties between families will encourage systematists to recon¬ sider systematic groupings that appear to be poorly supported by the features found in otoliths. This atlas points out some apparent inconsistencies in taxonomic groupings, but it is recognised that otoliths alone cannot be used to define taxonomic affinities. Nevertheless, it has been noted that they can suggest potentially fruitful research areas for revision of systematic relationships using a wider suite of characters (Nolf, 1993). It was beyond the scope of the 1 Port Elizabeth Museum, P.O. Box 13147, Humewood 6013, South Africa. 2 Dept, of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Grahamstown 6140, South Africa. present work to discuss or analyse these differences in any detail, although comments on groupings may be found in the text. Nolf (1993) correctly points out that functional mor¬ phology has a profound influence on otolith shape, illustrat¬ ing striking similarities in the otoliths of the scombrid Acanthocybium solandri, and the unrelated fresh water cen- tropomid Luciolates stappersi. Despite this caveat, we be¬ lieve that the study of otoliths has a valuable role in taxonomic studies. Indeed, the wider interest in otolith studies provides some interesting insights in to relative influences of phylogeny and functional morphology (Gaemers, 1976; Schwarzhans, 1978; Nolf, 1979), and we hope that this atlas will contribute to such investigations. © HORIZONTAL CANAL SAGITTA Figure 1. a) Diagram of the skull of Dinoperca peter si (after Heemstra & Hecht 1986) illustrating the position of the otoliths, b) Diagram of the semicircular canals, otoliths and descriptive terms (after Nolf, 1985). 1 Otolith function and structure The auditory-equilibrium organ or “labyrinth” of fishes comprises three fluid-filled semicircular canals that are con¬ nected with three sac -like chambers, the sacculus, utriculus and lagena (Hildebrand, 1974). Each chamber contains a hard bone-like otolith (ear-stone): the sagitta, lapillus and astericus, respectively (Fig. 1). The labyrinths are located in the bony auditory capsules at the back of the cranium. In most teleosts the sacculus is the largest of the three chambers, hence the sagitta is usually the largest of the three otoliths. The lapillus and astericus are generally much smaller and rarely found in stomach con¬ tents or in middens. In some fishes (e.g., the Cypriniformes and Siluriformes), the utriculus is the largest chamber, and the lapillus is then the largest otolith. Members of the siluriform family Ariidae have a massive lapillus, whilst the sagitta and astericus are minute. The configuration of the sagitta is usually more complicated than that of the other two otoliths, and it shows more characteristic features that can be used to distinguish various species, genera and families. The utriculus seems to be more important in maintain¬ ing equilibrium of the. fish, and the sacculus and lagena appear to be more concerned with sound reception. Each chamber has sensory cells in contact with the otolith, con¬ sequently all of the chambers are sensitive to gravity, accel¬ eration and vibration. The various names that have been used for the three otoliths are as follows: saccular otolith = sagitta = sacculith utricular otolith = lapillus = utriculith lagenar otohth = asteriscus = lagenalith Several physiological functions have been ascribed to the otohth: 1. maintenance and regulation of muscle tone; 2. perception of angular accelerations; 3. perception of grav¬ ity; 4. perception of sound (Lowenstein, 1957). In addition, the discovery of strong piezoelectric qualities of otoliths has led some authors to suggest that they may be of some use in frequency analysis, depth perception, or both (Morris & Kittleman, 1967; Nolf, 1985). Functional requirements ap¬ pear to have a marked influence on the shape and appearance of the otohth, and this may result in similarities of otohth shape for unrelated species (Nolf, 1993). Otoliths are initially formed of protein granules which merge, forming a sub-primordium; this is then covered by a layer of calcium and a layer of protein. Large amounts of protein are accreted around this, forming the primordium (Zhang & Runham, 1989). Otoliths have been used to assess growth because the character of the complex matrix of protein and aragonite crystals varies both on a daily and seasonal basis (Panella, 1974; Blacker, 1974; Morales-Nin, 1987). Although the growth occurs on the outer margin of the otohth in approximately concentric zones, the margin may grow differentially with notches or erosion of some surfaces, which causes variation in the macroscopic appear¬ ance of the otohth with growth. Often the otoliths grow more in length than in other planes; consequently, they often appear relatively more elongate in adults than in juveniles of the same species. Ontogenetic changes in shape occur between larvae, juveniles and adult fish. Generally, adults have more distinctive otoliths compared to small juveniles. which are more similar, at least within a family, and some¬ times between families. MATERIALS AND METHODS When possible, fish identifications were confirmed by ap¬ propriate taxonomists and voucher specimens were usually lodged in the J.L.B Smith Institute of Ichthyology or South African Museum. Where available, both the otolith collec¬ tion number and the number of the institution at which the voucher is held is given in the text. Identifiers of fishes are cited in the text for material used in the atlas. In some instances the fish specimens held in other museums had not yet been accessioned at the time of going to print, in which case the term “lodged in” with the museum name is given. The importance of having at least one voucher specimen in a museum collection cannot be over-emphasized. Oh nu¬ merous occasions this precaution resolved problems when new species were discovered (e.g. Macrouridae) or when new distribution records were recognised. Conversely, otoliths have occasionally alerted us to problems in speci¬ mens that appeared to belong to a single species (e.g. Epigonus cf. robustus, Chascanopsetla cf. lugubris). Un¬ resolved taxonomic problems are noted in the text. The fishes were measured to the nearest mm usually using total, fork and standard length and weighed to the nearest gram. The otolith measurement generally used was otolith diameter, the greatest diameter of the otolith. This is the same as the otolith length in most species except in those with unusual shapes, such as tall, when otolith height is greater than otolith length. The otoliths were usually removed in one of two ways. The quickest method is to cut through the isthmus and remove the gills, turn the fish upside down, then, with the head forced down, break it from the spinal column. A pair of bone cutters or heavy duty scissors are positioned so that a blade is on each side of the occipital condyle and the floor of the skull is lifted. The scissors or bone cutters may be closed a fraction to initiate the plane of fracture. If they are closed more than this, the otoliths are destroyed. If this technique is carried out correctly, the otoliths lie exposed inside the otic capsules when the basioccipital is lifted away. If the fish is needed as a voucher, a different method of removal is recommended. The fish should be placed on its side, the gill cover lifted and the gills carefully pulled down and cut away from the skull. This area is well supplied with blood vessels and it will be necessary to dry the blood with absorbent paper before proceeding. The skull should be exposed and the otic capsules should be visible (the otolith may also be visible in some species). The otic capsule is then opened with the tip of a scalpel or sharp knife. Inward pressure should be avoided because this bone often breaks easily and the otolith is readily broken if the dissecting instrument is forced inwards. The hole in the skull should be widened to allow the otolith to be removed without damaging it. The fish may then be turned over and the process repeated to remove the other otolith. The dissection is facilitated in small species by use of a dissecting micro¬ scope. Alternatively, a jeweller’s magnifying glass may be used. In groups such as flatfishes and boxfishes, removal may best be attempted by the method described and illus¬ trated by Williams & Bedford (1974). 2 After extraction, the otoliths were washed thoroughly to remove otic fluid, blood and tissue and allowed to air dry. They were labeled and stored in small vials or gelatin capsules. To date, gelatin capsules have been found to be the best small containers, but they have the disadvantage of being soluble and degradable by insects. When working with gelatin capsules, the environment and hands must be kept dry. Otoliths should never be stored in formalin solu¬ tion as this corrodes the surface, making them chalky. Simi¬ larly, the fish from which otoliths are to be removed should not be foimalinised. Alcohol should also be avoided, as this too may damage otoliths. To preserve fishes, freezing prior to otolith removal is ideal; but, if they are not maintained at a low enough temperature, putrefaction obvious in the tis¬ sues of the fish, also occurs in the otolith, presumably as a result of denaturing of the protein matrix of the otolith by bacterial activity. Preparation of material for the SEM Otoliths were mounted onto a brass stub 50 mm in diameter and 4 mm thick. The stub was divided into 8 segments and each segment numbered to allow the position of individual otoliths to be mapped and recorded. A centre punch hole allowed for more accurate location of otoliths whilst photo¬ graphing in the electron microscope. Numbering segments and the use of an illustrated map considerably facilitated orientation in this process. The glue used to affix the otoliths to the stub was obtained by dissolving the adhesive off double sided “Sello- tape” in chloroform. Usually six 20 mm strips were dis¬ solved in c. 10 ml of chloroform for the glue solution. This solution was spread in a thin film over the stub using a dropper. After a few minutes it became tacky and was ready for the otoliths to be mounted. Each otolith was gently pressed into the glue and staightened to allow it to be positioned as required. Convex or very concave otoliths were supported with tissue paper to ensure they remained upright. Mounting onto stubs was done no more than a few days in advance as they tend to collect dust and move if the glue dries out. Mounted otoliths were sputter-coated with a thin layer of gold (20 nm) using a standard coating time of two minutes. Preliminary attempts to photograph without gold coating yielded poor results. Scanning electron micrographs were done at the Elec¬ tron Microscopy Unit of Rhodes University using a JOEL scanning electron microscope. Otoliths smaller than 12 mm long and 5 mm wide yielded the best photographic results. The largest otolith that could be photographed on a single negative was about 10 mm long. Larger otoliths had to be photographed using multiple overlapping photographs. Very large otoliths (>15 mm OD) had to be placed on the grid at the bottom of the microscope once the stage had been removed. This proved a limitation as it had to be carefully centred on the grid and magnification variation is limited. Furthermore, the machine has to be evacuated for each otolith, slowing down the process considerably. After photography, otoliths were removed from the stubs within a few days. A drop of chloroform was put next to each otolith to dissolve the glue; this reduced the risk of damage to the fragile specimens. Each otolith was removed with forceps and briefly placed in a shallow bath of chloro¬ form to remove all traces of the glue. After careful drying on tissue paper, it was then replaced in its capsule. The gold was not removed, as features of these coated otoliths are easier to see under binocular microscopes than those of uncoated specimens. Use of the otolith reference collection Large otoliths (>20 mm) may be numbered directly on the lateral surface. However, the otoliths of many species of fish are too small to be numbered directly, consequently they are placed in numbered gelatin capsules, which ideally should be transparent. In cases where the otoliths them¬ selves are not numbered, there is a danger of mixing them up when more than one pair is removed from their capsules. Several precautions are used to reduce this risk. A piece of plasticine or “Prestik” is pressed onto a small plastic sheet and divided into numbered sections. The reference otolith is placed in the quadrant into which the numbered capsule is also firmly pressed. Normally only one or two specimens are taken from their capsules at any one time, and the capsules are stuck next to their otoliths during examination to prevent the possibility of their being mixed up. This allows the unknown specimen from a stomach sample, for example, to be compared directly with reference material of approximately the same size. The use of numbered quad¬ rants allows more than one pair of otoliths to be examined simultaneously whilst reducing the risk of mixing up otoliths. Otoliths in stomach contents Otoliths are used extensively in stomach content analysis because they are one of the last species-specific features to be digested. Although they are composed of protein and calcium carbonate crystals, they are situated in the skull and therefore protected from digestion. After removal from the skulls of the prey or from the stomach contents, the otoliths are washed and air dried. Use of an ultrasonic bath may assist in removal of adhesive tissues. The cleaned and dried otolith may then be compared with reference material or illustrations. The highly reflec¬ tive surface of the otolith often makes observation of the characteristic features difficult. This problem may be over¬ come with the use of a graphite or ammonium chloride coating. A simple graphite method is to scribble on a smooth surface with a soft graphite pencil. A finger can be rubbed into the graphite then gently rubbed onto the surface of the otolith, or graphite powder may be ‘painted’ onto the otolith using a fine artist’s brush. This highlights the cristae surrounding the sulcus and any other features proud of the surrounding surface, allowing them to be seen better under a binocular microscope. The use of a brush is better for fragile otoliths. The ammonium chloride method is de¬ scribed in detail by Hecht (1977). In brief, ammonium chloride crystals are pushed into a narrow glass tube which is held over a cool flame until they sublimate. The warm end of the tube is placed close to the otolith and the vapours are gently blown out to coat it. This provides a matt surface which allows features to be seen more easily. As ammo¬ nium chloride is extremely hygroscopic, it should be gently brushed from the otolith prior to storage to prevent moisture from collecting on the otolith surface. 3 Figure 2. Otoliths showing erosion of diagnostic features as a result of being subjected to the digestive enzymes and high levels of acidity in the stomach. They were removed from the stomach contents of a dolphin. A 1-3 Engraulis japonicus, SSF 55.1: B 1-3 Pomadasys olivaceum SSF 179.1: Scale bar 1 mm. Effects of digestion Digestion of the otoliths has the effect of reducing promi¬ nent features and eroding the margins. Consequently the lengths and weights of fish calculated from digested otoliths will markedly underestimate the original size of the prey. How this is compensated will depend on the particular investigation. The features of otoliths undergoing digestion are visibly altered and often the surface of the otolith becomes chalky, as may be seen in the series of otoliths removed from stomach contents (Fig. 2). Using the atlas The layout used in this atlas is aimed primarily at facilitating identification of otoliths found in stomach contents or ar¬ chaeological deposits. Prior to reading the individual de¬ scriptions, it is essential that readers thoroughly familiarise themselves with the terminology used. The descriptive terms are illustrated and described in detail to facilitate this process (Fig. 3). Whilst we have attempted to use terms in the literature, their use has been somewhat ambiguous in some cases, and we have redefined all terms and used numerous illustrations in an attempt to reduce misunderstanding. Some of the problems with ter¬ minology are due to the difficulties of describing three dimensional objects that are reproduced as two dimensional figures. The limitations of language in this endeavor be¬ come apparent when trying to describe subtle differences which vary with growth. This is particularly problematical in the identification keys for species with very similar otoliths. In some cases similarities of features may result from the relatively recent speciation events in the family. In species that communicate using sound, evolution of otoliths with specific acoustic properties would clearly be a driving force in the evolution of otolith morphology, and these one may expect to be more characteristic of the species. HETEROMORPH OTOLITH POSTERIOR ANTERIOR HOMOMORPH OTOLITH POSTERIOR PSEUDOCOLLICULUM VENTRAL DEPRESSION Figure 3. Diagrams of the mesial surface of left hetero- morph and homomorph otoliths illustrating various features which may be found on otoliths and which are described in the text. 4 The sequence of families treated is that used by Nelson in Fishes of the World (1984). Species are de¬ scribed in alphabetic sequence using the same numbers as Smiths’ Sea Fishes (Smith & Heemstra, 1986) to help read¬ ers using that work as a reference. Synonyms and authors of each species are given in Smiths’ Sea Fishes (SSF) and are therefore not repeated here unless noted in the text for recent changes. Particular care needs to be taken where only a single otolith is described in the atlas. Clearly, intraspecific vari¬ ation cannot be described and this may have implications in the keys provided. The keys are intended as an additional aid to readers, as they highlight characters that are useful in differentiating species. Keys have several limitations, mainly because otoliths have a limited number of features that may be compared. Furthermore, because some features vary with growth, keys and descriptions are most reliable when examining otoliths that are removed from adults of a particular species. Experience and comparative material is necessary to identify otoliths from juveniles and otoliths from members of some families. Once the terms have been assimilated, the mi¬ crographs should be scanned to exclude those families which are obviously not appropriate. Initial attempts to develop a key to families were aborted because of overlaps in descriptive terms used in a wide variety of families. The use of outline diagrams of “typical” members of the family was redundant because of the comprehensive nature of the illustrations in the plates. For these reasons no key to families is provided. Keys are generally provided when more than one species of a particular family is included in the atlas. In some instances, keys are not given because intraspecific variation was found to be almost as great as interspecific variation. This may be a result of limited material being available for study. In most cases dichotomous keys are provided. When this was not possible, species were either grouped where necessary, or more than one alternative had to be given as the subtle differences were difficult to de¬ scribe. Be aware that the key is limited by the material available, and that large adults may be different from juve¬ niles or subadults for some species. The keys are not intended as the sole method of otolith identification, but as guides to highlight differences between species, particularly for the inexperienced. The most obvious features are used, as details of colliculi or depths of depressions are difficult to see in fresh material, and are often eroded early in the digestive process. The user must also consider whether other species occur in the area, even if they are not repre¬ sented in this atlas. There is no guarantee that species not described here are markedly different from those species included, so there is a possibility of misidentification. The maximum size of each species is given at the end of the distribution notes. This should be compared with the size range of material described in the atlas to determine whether the otoliths described are from juveniles or repre¬ sent adult fishes. Note that because of individual variation, there may be slight differences in the size order of otoliths compared to fish lengths, leading to apparent differences in the maxima of ranges in the descriptions compared with the illustrations. Adult otoliths usually show the most charac¬ teristic form of that species, and juveniles must be treated with particular caution, as they are often extremely similar in closely related species. Ideally, otoliths recovered from stomach contents should be compared with reference otoliths of a similar size to increase the degree of confidence of identifications. It is also helpful to have a reasonably good idea of the faunal composition of potential prey species in an area, as species that are known not to occur in that region can often be excluded. For example, if the material is from Natal, it is usually safe to assume that the potential prey spectrum excludes species restricted to the Atlantic Ocean. The obvious exception is where knowledge of the fauna is sketchy, for example with offshore and deep water species. The known distribution of each species is given according to Smiths’ Sea Fishes (Smith & Heemstra, 1986). DEFINITIONS The following terms appear in the same sequence as used in the descriptions. In some cases our definitions vary from usage by previous authors (e.g. Hecht, 1978; Morrow, 1979). DISTRIBUTION: Describes the known range of the spe¬ cies, according to SSF (often in abbreviated form), except where specifically mentioned otherwise. The known maximum size is also given, also from SSF. MATERIAL: The numbers beginning this section give the number of otoliths examined and the total number of otoliths available (e.g. 3/13 means that 3 otoliths were used for the description out of a total of 13 held in the JLBSII and PEM collections). As wide a size range as possible was covered, and generally there is limited intraspecific variation, except where mentioned. This small sample size was necessary to limit the extent of information, such as lengths and ratios, given in the atlas. The size range of material given is provided in brackets. Otolith accession numbers are provided, and these are usually PEM, except where H follows the number, indicating a JLBSII accessioned otolith (pre¬ viously from the collection of T. Hecht). The collection locality is given, followed by the identifier, when known. Square brackets indicate voucher specimens not specifically used in the descriptions. The distribu¬ tion and identifiers need not necessarily be the same for the material given in square brackets. OTOLITH SHAPE: In the descriptions and keys, the terms used are illustrated (Fig. 4), although qualifiers are used where appropriate. For example, otoliths of Lethrinus sanguineus (185.16) are described as “rounded ovate” to indicate the rounded margins and rounded postero- dorsal comer of an otolith with an approximately ovate appearance. “Discoid” implies an almost circular otolith with a shallow anterior notch. If there is vari¬ ation in shape within a species, the description may be “oval to rounded triangular” (e.g. Centroberyx spinosus 126.3). Where there are ontogenetic changes with growth, the description uses “becoming” to denote this (e.g. “rhomboidal becoming approximately ovate” [Polysteganus undulosus 183.32]). The size at which changes occur is usually noted in the text. 5 OBLONG OVAL DISCOID KIDNEY-SHAPED TEAR-DROP SQUARE ANVIL-SHAPED MAIZE-KERNEL RECTANGULAR OBOVATE SPINDLE-SHAPED HOUR-GLASS RHOMBOIDAL Figure 4. Diagrams illustrating terms used to describe otolith shapes in this atlas. 6 THICKNESS: The thickness of the otolith between the mesial and lateral surfaces is described as extremely thick, very thick, thick, moderate, moderately thin or thin in decreasing thickness (Fig. 5). Some species (e.g. Centrolophus niger 254.1) have been described as thin, wafer-like. MEDIAL VIEW CROSS SECTIONAL VIEWS A) OTOLITH: VERY THICK B) OTOLITH: MODERATELY THICK “sinuate to dentate or entire” Trachinocephalus myops 79.10). ENTIRE: Smooth with no indentations. LOB ED: Large rounded humps on the margin. SINUATE: Rounded and regular wave-like curves. CRENATE: Regular and compressed humps usually with rounded crests. DENTATE: Regular projections with flattened crests, giving a toothed appearance. SERRATE: Regular pointed projections resembling the teeth of a saw. IRREGULAR: With irregular indentations and humps (i.e. not a smooth margin as in “entire”) ENTIRE SINUATE C) OTOLITH: THICK D) OTOLITH: THIN Figure 5. Diagrams of otolith form illustrating terms used relating to thickness, mesial and lateral surfaces of an otolith sectioned through the plane XY. FORM: The cross-sectional shape (transverse profile) of the otolith as seen from the dorsal or ventral margins. MESIAL: The surface directed towards the interior or middle plane of the fish shows the prominent features of the otolith. Its shape is described as convex, flat or concave. LATERAL: The side directed towards the exterior of lateral surface of the fish generally has few or no distinguishing features. Its shape is described as con¬ vex, flat or concave. LATERAL SURFACE FEATURES: The lateral surface of the otolith, although not photographed, may have characteristic features, such as notches, pits, or grooves and age rings. These are described when useful in distinguishing species or families. If there are no dis¬ tinct features, this term is omitted. MARGIN SHAPE: The various terms used to describe shapes of the DORSAL, VENTRAL AND POSTER¬ IOR MARGINS are illustrated (Fig. 6). These describe the general outline of that margin. Terms such as rounded, flat, irregular, indented, bulbous are used, sometimes with different sub-areas described sepa¬ rately (e.g. “rounded, emarginate posteriorly” Gymnot- horax rueppelliae 41.23 or “flattened with indentation at midpoint” Synodus indicus 79.7). SCULPTURING: The terms used here are illustrated (Fig. 6). They describe the finer surface features of the margin, which may vary between individuals (e.g. Figure 6. Diagrams illustrating terms used to describe otolith margin sculpturing. SULCUS: (or SULCUS ACUSTICUS) The longitudinal groove or depression on the mesial surface of the otolith (Fig. 7). It may be divided into the ostium and cauda either by a collum or a clear constriction of the dorsal, ventral or both margins of the sulcus. If the sulcus is undivided, the description reads “ ostium and cauda undifferentiated” (e.g. Ogcocephalidae, Malt hop sis luteus 104.6). In some species, the differentiation into ostium and cauda is seen only by features on the floor of the sulcus (see pseudo-archaesulcoid), e.g. Pellona dit chela 54.7. The sulcus generally opens onto one or more margins as follows: MESIAL: The sulcus does not open to any margins of the otolith other than the mesial surface (e.g. Ophidii- dae). OSTIAL: The sulcus opens onto the anterior (or dorsal) margin, the cauda is closed or becomes indistinguish¬ able well before the posterior margin (e.g. Sparidae). PSEUDO-OSTIAL: The ostium lies very close to the anterior (or dorsal) margin but does not open onto it (e.g. Atrobucca nibe 199.4). PARA-OSTIAL: The sulcus opening towards the an¬ terior (or dorsal) margin is reduced to a narrow channel or ostial canal (e.g. Umbrina ronchus 199.9). OSTIO-CAUDAL (In some literature the term BIOSTIAL is used, but this is inaccurate.): The sulcus opens widely to both the anterior and posterior margins 7 MESIAL OSTIAL ARCHAESULCOID Figure 7. Diagrams of otoliths illustrating terms used to describe the principal types of sulcus openings. (e.g. Melanonus gracilis 91.1, Zeus capensis 138.4). In some species the walls of the sulcus are unclear, but there is no closure before the sulcus reaches the margin. If the colliculum reaches or penetrates the margin, then the sulcus is considered to be open even if the cristae are not developed or visible. CAUDAL: The sulcus opens to the posterior or ventral margin and the ostium is closed (e.g. Lepidion capensis 90.5). PSEUDO-OSTIOCAUDAL: The sulcus ends in¬ distinctly very near to the anterior and posterior mar¬ gins. Sulcus types are as follows (Fig. 8): ARCHAESULCOID: No clear differentiation into ostium and cauda, both have more or less the same height (i.e. cauda is not narrower). No constrictions are visible on the floor of the sulcus or in the cristae. PSEUDO- ARCHAESULCOID: Sulcus is undifferen¬ tiated into ostium and cauda by constrictions of the cristae. They both are approximately the same height, but the ostium and cauda are distinguished by features on the floor of the sulcus, for example, the ostium may be lower than the cauda and may end in a V-shape (e.g. Scopelosaurus ahlstromi 78.3, and Pellona ditchela 54.7). NOTE: If the otolith is not coated for SEM, pseudo-archaesulcoid may appear to be archaesulcoid. HETEROSULCOID: Ostium and cauda are clearly distinguishable and different in shape. HOMOSULCOID: Ostium and cauda are clearly dis¬ tinguishable (a constriction is present), and they are similar in size and shape. COLLICULUM: The raised part of the sulcus floor (Fig. 9). It may be raised in the ostium (anterior colliculum). PSEUDO-ARCHAESULCOID HETEROSULCOID HOMOSULCOID Figure 8. Diagrams of otoliths illustrating terms used to describe different sulcus types. Figure 9. Diagrams of otoliths illustrating terms used to describe different colliculum types. ^uda (posterior), or both. In some instances it is raised only at the margins whilst the centre may be depressed. The colliculum may be raised without the ostium and cauda being differentiated. The types of colliculum are described as follows: ABSENT : No colliculi visible in sulcus. In the descrip¬ tions, the term “no raised colliculi” is generally used. INDISTINCT: Colliculi not clearly defined as raised, or without raised margins, floor of sulcus may be un¬ even. Otoliths which have colliculi that are barely visible (even in the micrograph) are described as low, indistinct or very indistinct. These terms reflect de- 8 creasing visibility of the colliculi, and these structures are often invisible under a microscope if the otolith is uncoated with gold or ammonium chloride. HOMOMORPH: Either no division into anterior and posterior (colliculum may be single) i.e. undifferenti¬ ated, or there may be two colliculi, one in the ostium and one in the cauda, very similar in shape but slightly different in size (e.g. Elopidae, Gadidae, Ophidiidae). HETEROMORPH: Sulcus is differentiated into ostium and cauda of different shapes and contains raised or depressed colliculi (usually with raised margins) of different shapes or single colliculum in either ostium or cauda. NOTE: Colliculi may be fused though different in shape (e.g. Stemoptychidae, Idiacanthidae). SCOMBROID: Used by other authors to denote no raised colliculi; sulcus deep with V-shaped cross sec¬ tion (e.g. Scombridae, Morrow 1979). Different mem¬ bers of this family have various developments and shapes associated with the sulcus, hence this term has been avoided in this atlas, as it may lead to confusion. INCISIVE: One of the colliculi has developed into a ridge-like, elongate crest (e.g. Moridae). This term has not been used in this atlas, but the use of this and the following two terms is noted in relation to other publi¬ cations where appropriate (e.g. Moridae). OSTIAL-INCISIVE (O-INCISIVE): Ostial colliculum is incisive. CAUDAL-INCISIVE (C-INCISIVE): Caudal collicu¬ lum is incisive. PSEUDOCOLLICULUM: The collicular crest generally just above the crista inferior (e.g. certain Gadiformes and Myctophidae). NECK: The junction of the ostium and cauda, which is often indicated by a constriction of the cristae or sulcus margin. Previous authors have used the term “collum” for this junction. OSTIUM: The anterior portion of the sulcus, anterior to the neck. CAUDA: The posterior portion of the sulcus, posterior to the neck. OSTIO-CAUDAL DIFFERENTIATION: The constric¬ tion of the sulcus that delimits the ostium and cauda. It is usually caused by a flexion of either the crista super¬ ior or crista inferior, or both, in the region of the neck. If the sulcus is pseudo-archaesulcoid, the constrictions are seen in features on the floor of the sulcus. OSTIUM/CAUDA: This describes the ratio of the ostium to cauda length (Fig. 10), given individually in size order. COLLUM: A raised tubercle or a wall-like structure that separates the ostium and cauda (Fig. 1 1). It may appear as a solid bridge, in which case, the ostium and cauda appear as depressed pits (e.g. Stethojulis interrupt a 220.56, Aulostomus chinensis 143.1, Aluterus mono- ceros 264.1). It is often absent. CRISTA: Rim or margin of the sulcus, either dorsal or ventral; may be continuous or broken (Fig. 12). CRISTA SUPERIOR: Dorsal rim or margin of the sulcus CAUDA Figure 10. Diagrams illustrating the delimitation of the ostium and cauda. COLLUM ABSENT COLLUM WALL-LIKE COLLUM RAISED TUBERCLE COLLUM SOLID BRIDGE Figure 11. Diagrams illustrating different types of collum. CRISTA INFERIOR: Ventral rim or margin of the sulcus. The development of the cristae is described as: ABSENT: No clear demarcation between the mesial surface of the otolith and the sulcus. POORLY DEVELOPED: Rim visible but not raised. WELL DEVELOPED: Sulcus clearly demarcated with an obvious margin which is often slightly raised but not ridge-like. Often the sulcus is deep and lies well below the dorsal and ventral areas. Figure 12. Diagrams illustrating crista development of an hypothetically sectioned otolith. 9 RIDGE-LIKE: Sulcus margin raised as a ridge above the dorsal and ventral areas. DORSAL DEPRESSION: Depression in the dorsal area, may have a distinctive shape and may be morphologi¬ cally different from the rest of the area. DORSAL AREA: The part of the mesial surface of the otolith dorsal to the sulcus. VENTRAL DEPRESSION: Depression in the ventral area, may have a distinctive shape and may be morpho¬ logically different from the rest of the area. VENTRAL AREA: The part of the mesial surface of the otolith ventral to the sulcus. DORSAL/VENTRAL TROUGH OR GROOVE: Narrow, elongate depression which is often parallel with the dorsal or ventral margin of the otolith. DORSAL/VENTRAL RIDGE: Narrow, sometimes irregu¬ lar broken ridge in the dorsal/ventral area, protruding above the surrounding area but separate from the cris- tae. POSTCAUDAL TROUGH: Groove or depression on the posterior part of the otolith. It lies behind the caudal tip, often on the postero-ventral portion of the otolith and in some otoliths it may extend from the posterior end of the sulcus to the posterior ventral margin of the otolith. It is usually absent. ROSTRUM: The anterior extension of the otolith just ven¬ tral to the notch of the excisura (Fig. 13), measured from the posterior end of the notch of the excisura. When no notch is present, it is taken to the anterior edge of the crista superior. Para-ostial otoliths may have a rostrum, measured from the posterior-most edge of the canal at the margin. If the sulcus does not open onto the anterior margin there is no rostrum, even though there may be an indentation in the anterior margin; these are mesial and pseudo-ostial opening otoliths (e.g. Gobiidae). PSEUDO-ROSTRUM: The posterior equivalent of the rostrum with the opening of the sulcus caudal or ostio- caudal; it may be measured like the rostrum. ANTIROSTRUM: The antero-dorsal comer or projection of the otolith just dorsal to the notch of the excisura. Measured in a similar way to the rostrum. If it does not project anteriorly over the excisura, and therefore can¬ not be measured, it is considered absent, and any raised area is considered to be a raised dorsal wall. This may vary within a species, e.g. “broad and rounded but may be absent in small otoliths" {Per spar sia kopua 65.7). PSEUDO-ANTIROSTRUM: The equivalent of the anti¬ rostrum on the posterior margin, if the opening of the sulcus is caudal or ostio-caudal; it may be measured like the antirostrum. EXCISURA: Opening of the sulcus on the margin (usually anterior) of the otolith. This separates the rostrum and the antirostrum, if present (Fig. 3). There may be a NOTCH in the excisura. If the sulcus does not reach the margin of the otolith there is no excisura, even though a notch may be present. In the descriptions the excisura is described (e.g. “narrow” or “wide”), the notch is described (e.g. “shallow” or “deep”), and the angle of the notch is given (e.g. “acute” or “wide”). OSTIAL PARA-OSTIAL ANTIROSTRUM NO ANTIROSTRUM NO ANTIROSTRUM NO ANTIROSTRUM ROSTRUM PSEUDO-ANTIROSTRUM ANTIROSTRUM NO ROSTRUM OSRO-CAUDAL PSEUDO-ROSTRUM ROSTRUM Figure 13. Diagrams of different otolith openings illustrating the position of the rostrum, antirostrum, pseudo-rostrum and pseudo- antirostrum. PSEUDO-EXCISURA: The equivalent of the excisura on the posterior margin, if the opening of the sulcus is caudal or ostio-caudal. Where appropriate this may be described in the text. ABBREVIATIONS PEOPLE AB Avi Baranes: Inter-University Institute, Eilat, Israel. ABT A. Ben-Tuvia: (retired), Dept Zoology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel. AD Arik Diamant, Marine Biology Laboratory, Eilat. AK Adolph Kotthaus, formerly of Zoologisches Institut und Museum Universitat Hamburg, Germany. ALB Allen L. Batchelor, formerly PEM. BCR Barry C. Russell, Northern Territory Museum, Darwin, Australia. BR Barrie Rose, Irvine and Johnson, formerly SERI. CDB Colin D. Buxton, DIFS . CP Cohn Porter, National Center for Mariculture, Eilat, Israel. DC Digby Cyrus, Dept. Zoology, University of Zululand. DF David Freidman, Underwater World, Eilat, Israel. FCS Fred C. Stinton, (deceased). GJBR Graham J.B. Ross, formerly PEM, now: Australia Biological Resources Study (Fauna) GPO Box 636, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. 10 GRA Gerald R. Allen, Western Australian Museum, Perth. HM Hannes Marais, UPE. HMK H.M. Kok, formerly PEM. IE Isabel Eyberg, formerly ORI. IN Izumi Nakamura Fisheries Research Station, Kyoto University, Japan. IP Ian Papema, Israel. JEF John E. Fitch, (deceased). JER John Randall, Bernice P. Bishop Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii. JRC John R. Clarke, formerly PEM. LEB Lynnath E. Beckley, ORI. MEA M. Eric Anderson, JLBSII. MHG Marc H. Griffiths, SFRI. MIS Malcolm J. Smale, PEM. MMS Margaret M. Smith, (deceased). OG Ofer Gon, JLBSII. PAH P. A. Hulley, SAM. PC Petra Claus, formerly PEM. PCH Phillip C. Heemstra JLBSII. PFB Paddy F. Berry, Western Australian Museum, formerly ORI. RHG Robert H. Gibbs, Jr, (deceased). RJM R.J. McKay, Queensland Museum, Australia RvdE Rudy van der Elst, ORI. RWL Robert W. Leslie, SFRI. SAC Simon A. Chater, ORI. STF Sean T. Fennessy, ORI. TH Thomas Hecht, DIFS. TI Tomio Iwamoto, Dept. Ichthyology, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco. TJM Tim J. Martin, Dept. Zoology, University of Zululand. WDA William D. Anderson, Jr. Grice Marine Biological Laboratory, 205 Fort Johnson, Charleston, SC 29407, USA. INSTITUTIONS DIFS Dept, of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. JLBSII J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology, Grahamstown, South Africa. ORI Oceanographic Research Institute, Durban, South Africa. PEM Port Elizabeth Museum, South Africa. Also used as accession code for specimens held in PEM collection. PEO Port Elizabeth Oceanarium, Port Elizabeth Museum Complex, South Africa. RU Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. RUSI Accession code of JLBS13 (indicates that the fish specimen is held in the collection of JLBS13). SAM South African Museum, Cape Town, South Africa. Also used as accession code for specimens held in SAM collection. SERI Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Cape Town, South Africa. UPE University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. FISH MEASUREMENTS BL Body length, the distance from the posterior operculum margin to the caudal base. May be used in some of the Beloniformes, e.g. Belonidae, where the rostrum may be damaged. FL Fork length, the distance from the tip of snout to the tip of the shortest caudal fin rays. HL Head length, the distance from tip of snout to rear end of operculum. L Left otolith, indicats side from which otolith removed. R Right otolith, indicates side from which otolith removed. PAL Pre-anal length, the distance from the tip of the snout to the vent. SL Standard length, the distance from the tip of the snout to the base of the caudal fin. TL Total length, the length from the tip of the snout to the tip of the longest caudal ray, bent to the horizontal. OD Otolith diameter, the greatest diameter of the otolith. OH Otolith height, the distance from the ventral to the dorsal margin of the otolith. OL Otolith length, the distance from the anterior to the posterior margin of the otolith. OTHER SEM Scanning electron microscope. SSF Smiths’ Sea Fishes (Smith and Heemstra, 1986). 11 ORDER ELOPIFORMES ELOPIDAE Nelson No. 43 Family characteristics: Based on a single species; otoliths large but delicate, up to at least 1 1mm OD. Otoliths fusiform, hetero- sulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium elongate and slightly wider than cauda, cauda straight. Homomorph, anterior cohiculum in¬ distinct. Elops machnata, SSF No. 36.2 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Recorded from Mossel Bay, South Africa to the Red Sea and India, possibly to west Pacific. Attains about 1 m. MATERIAL: 5/1 1 - otoliths delicate, often broken on removal - (2.2-11.1 mm OD, 74-904 mm TL), PEM 5837, 5836, 14825, 14813, 2581; estuaries on Cape southeast coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Juveniles (c. 3 mm OD) oval; large otoliths (c. 1 1 mm OD) oblong to fusiform with rounded posterior margin. Thickness: Thin, especially rostral tip. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave anteriorly, slightly convex posteriorly. Lateral surface: Grooves radiate dorsally from ven¬ tral margin. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flat; sculpture, irregular, may be lobed in juveniles (c. 3 mm OD). Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate, lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, anterior colliculum indistinct and barely raised, but flat. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies along the rostrum, slightly wider than cauda. Cauda: Straight, deep on dorsal side, with steep walls; shallow ventrally; tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9 (5836), 1:1.2 (14825), rest have broken rostral tips. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, well developed and broadly raised above cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Dorsal margin depressed, wider towards posterior. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, elongate, wedge-shaped with sharply rounded tip. Antirostrum: Absent but there may be sharply raised dorsal margin behind excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. ALBULIDAE Nelson No. 45 Family characteristics: Otolith shape oblong or kidney-shaped up to at least 18.7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, para-ostial or ostial openings. Ostium oval or elongate, cauda straight or flexed. Homomorph, with anterior colliculum. Key la. Otolith oblong; dorsal area reduced; cauda strongly flexed as right-angle; ostium nodular, opening ostial . Albula vulpes 38.1 lb. Otolith kidney shaped, dorsal area relatively wide; cauda straight, open at tip; ostium floor smooth, opening para-ostial on dorsal margin. . Pterothrissus belloci 38.2 Albula vulpes , SSF No. 38.1 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Taxonomic status of species in the genus Al¬ bula is currently uncertain. Treated here as in SSF. Tropical seas to Algoa Bay. Attains at least 1 m. MATERIAL: 3/6 (13.3-18.7 mm OD, largest fish, 750 mm TL), PEM 6120, 6111, 7452; M’bibi, Kosi Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave anteriorly, convex and thick posteriorly. Dorsal margin: Rattened; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar with an indentation over the caudal flexion. Ventral margin: Rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded with posterio-dorsal comer acutely angulate, sculpture, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, opening to anterio- dorsal margin, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single anterior colliculum distinct, with rough to nodular surface. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval and elongate. Cauda: Very deep, with right-angled flexion, tip close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:1, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed along posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped under ostium and anterior cauda well developed along pos¬ terior caudal, cauda deep. Dorsal depression: Small, at margin, dorsal area very reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral area smooth. Rostrum: Extremely large and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Extremely wide, notch absent. Pterothrissus belloci, SSF No. 38.2 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Found off West Africa, common off Guinea and Senegal, reaches Namibia, south of Walvis Bay. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2, same No. (9.4, 9.4 mm OD, 300, 305 mm TL), PEM 1014 a and b; Cape west coast; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Kidney-shaped. Thickness: Thin. Form: -Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate, rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Round¬ ed, slightly irregular or slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, slightly crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, opens onto dorsal surface only, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, very low anterior colliculum, depressed in centre. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, opening in mid-ostium. Cauda: Straight, short and tip not closed. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slight dorsal and ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: Absent, but slight step present. Crista superior: Absent or poorly developed over the anterior ostium, straight and ridge like from posterior ostium and over the cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under the ostium, and caudal region. Dorsal depression: Oval, moderately deep above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch moderate, angle wide. ORDER NOTACANTH I FORMES HALOSAURIDAE Nelson No. 46 Family characteristics: Otolith shape oval with domed dorsal wall, up to at least 3.9 mm OD. Sulcus variable but heterosulcoid with flared ostium and horizontal cauda. Key 1 a. Dorsal margin raised and domed; sulcus opening pseudo-ostial or ostial; ostium slightly flared; sulcus crystalline; surface of otolith not crystalline . . Halosauropsis macrochir 53.3 lb. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or slightly raised (not domed); sulcus opening ostial; ostium flared dorsally; sulcus not distinctly crystalline; surface of otolith crystalline . Halosaurus ovenii 53.4 Halosauropsis macrochir, SSF No. 53.3 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Point and Beira, along continental margins in Atlantic, at Prince Edward Is., Indian Ocean and off New Zealand. Attains c. 90 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2, same No. (3.9 mm OD, 77-86 mm HL), PEM 0952a, b; Tongue of the Ocean, Florida; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Oval with dorsal margin domed. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Domed; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat¬ ter, sinuate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or flattened and emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo- ostial or ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. 12 Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally, deep; entire sulcus crystalline. Cauda: Horizontal, dorsal wall steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsal constriction well defined, ventral may be slight constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1 :0.8, 1: 0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed or absent. Dorsal depression: Vari¬ able, often circular, may be deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and rounded or absent. Antirostrum: Minute or absent. Excisura: Narrow or absent. Halosaurus ovenii, SSF No. 53.4 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Point to Walvis Bay on both sides of the Atlantic. Attains c. 45-50 cm. MATERIAL: 5/8 ( 1. 9-3.5 mm OD, 196^35 mm TL), PEM 14644, 14623, 14686, 14612, 12422; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval with raised dorsal margin in large otoliths. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, irregular to slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct mar¬ gin of very low colliculum may be visible and crystalline. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Rared dorsally, shallow. Cauda: Deeper and horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:0.9. Col¬ lum: No collum. Crista superior: Well developed, may overhang sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed to absent. Dorsal depression: Absent but whole mesial surface is ciystalline in appearance. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately large and broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisu¬ ra: Wide, no notch. NOTACANTHIDAE Nelson No. 47 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths small, ap¬ proximately discoid and thick, up to at least 2.5 mm OD. Archae- sulcoid, sulcus may flare on dorsal margin. Dorsal area nodular. Notocanthus sexspinis, SSF No. 52.1 PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay to Durban; off southern Brazil, Chile, New Zealand and off Australia. Attains 50-60 cm. MATERIAL: 5/62 (1. 5-2.5 mm OD, 327-542 mm TL), PEM 14904 (RUSI 35581), 14643, 14903 (RUSI 35566), 9064, 9065, 14666, 14688, [9072-9079 (RUSI 37481)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded, slightly raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rattened or rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, ar- chaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated although anterior part of sulcus may flare and sulcus very deep towards the dorsal surface. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, overhangs ostium. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, may be a very low ridge under anterior sulcus. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area nodular with groove joining small, posterior, horseshoe shaped depression. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small or minute and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, if present, notch very shallow and angle wide. ORDER ANGU I LLI FORMES XENOCONGRIDAE Nelson No. 52 Family characteristics: Based on a single specimen, otolith small, up to at least 1.4 mm OD, oblong and moderately thick. Dorsal margin flat to slightly convex. Sulcus ends well short of posterior margin, cauda short and slightly curved, opening ostial. Kaupichthys sp., SSF No. 43.- PLATE 1 DISTRIBUTION: Three species in this genus, one off southern Africa. The specific identity of the material described here is uncertain, genus under revision at the time of writing. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.35 mm OD, 121 mm TL), PEM 15624, PCH 93C-4; Grand Comoro; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rat to slighdy emarginate, slightly raised posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and approxi¬ mately entire. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Short, narrow, almost horizontal with slight ventral curve. Ends well short of posterior margin. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Moderately well devel¬ oped under ostium, very low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Dorsal area above crista is depressed. Ventral depression: Narrow, elongate and shallow under crista. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. MURAENIDAE Nelson No. 54 Family characteristics: Otoliths elliptic with blunt, emarginate or notched anterior margin, up to at least 4.2 mm OD. Ostial opening to sulcus and homomorph colliculum present. Post-cau¬ dal groove usually present at tip of horizontal cauda. Ostium flared with parallel walls. Key 1 a. Postcaudal groove absent; sulcus wide . . Gymnothorax flavimarginatus 41.12 lb. Postcaudal groove present; sulcus narrower . 2 2a. Postcaudal groove ends close to notch in posterior margin . 3 2b. Postcaudal groove ends far from posterior margin or notch . 4 3a. Dorsal margin rounded; no notch on posterior margin . Gymnothorax undulatus 4 1 .24 3b. Dorsal margin slightly raised and rounded; notch in posterior margin . Gymnothorax eurostus 41.10 4a. Posterior margin point situated ventral to midline; point elongate; postcaudal groove slightly curved . Gymnothorax rueppelliae 4 1 .23 4b. Posterior margin point in midline; point short; postcaudal groove straight . Uropterygius micropterus 41 .31 Gymnothorax eurostus, SSF No. 41.10 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Transkei to Bazarutc, Indo-Pacific. Attains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.75 mm OD, 193 mm TL), PEM 2853; Sod- wana Bay; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Elliptic and wedge-shaped. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: 13 Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Homomorph, single, indistinct colliculum. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flares and slopes anteriorly. Cauda: Narrower, almost horizontal with slight ventral curve, with shallow post-caudal groove. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Very shallow and oval. Rostrum: Minute and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Gymnothorax flavimarginatus, SSF No. 41.12 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Common from Transkei northwards, Indo- Pa¬ cific. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 2/4 (4.0, 4.2 mm OD, 630, 730 mm TL), PEM 14225, 14226; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic, truncated anteriorly or wedge-shaped. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, sin¬ gle, indistinct fused colliculum in sulcus, depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flares and slopes an¬ teriorly. Cauda: Narrower, almost horizontal with slight ventral curve, no post-caudal groove. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed from mid¬ ostium to cauda, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short and slightly pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and blunt. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Gymnothorax rueppeUiae, SSF No. 41.23 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Hawaii to Red Sea and south to Bazaruto Island, Mozambique. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.5 mm OD, 407 mm TL), PEM 14543 (RUSI 31414); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic, truncate anteriorly. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, emarginate posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low colliculum, indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared, walls almost parallel. Cauda: Narrower, almost horizontal with slight ventral curve, shallow postcaudal groove present. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally slightly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, poor at postcaudal trough. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Gymnothorax undulatus , SSF No. 41.24 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Common from Port Alfred to southern Mozam¬ bique, Indo-Pacific. Attains at least 150 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 ( 1. 1 -3. 6 mm OD, 1 39-420 mm TL), PEM 14260, 4400, 4399, 14229; Comoro Ids and Ledsman Shoal, Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Large otoliths (>3 mm OD) elliptic, small (c. 1 mm OD) truncated anteriorly. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat to slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed approximately in midline and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single colliculum mainly in cauda, depressed in centre. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared, more shallow than cauda. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, post-caudal groove present. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: (cauda measured to tip of post-caudal trough) 1:2.75, 1:3.0, (4399 broken), 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus, poor along post¬ caudal trough. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along ostium and post-caudal trough, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Large otoliths (>3 mm OD) have a shallow, oval depression with a low ridge close to margin above ostium. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Minute, rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed in small otoliths, absent or minute in large specimens. Excisura: Wide, in small otoliths (<2 mm OD), moderate in larger (c. 3 mm OD), notch absent or very shallow and angle wide at all sizes. Uropterygius micropterus, SSF No. 41.31 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards; Indo-Pacific. Attains 28 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.3 mm OD, 310 mm TL), 0636H; off Brighton Beach, Durban; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Elliptic, concave anteriorly. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Nucleus area visible and slight step on ventral side. Dorsal margin: Rounded with a slight step posteri¬ orly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single, indistinct colliculum, indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very short, flared. Cauda: Almost horizontal, narrow with large and elongate post-caudal groove medially placed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: (including post-caudal trough): 1:3.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped, poor over trough. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium and trough, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small, sharply rounded, approximately equal to rostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. NEMICHTHYIDAE Nelson No. 55 Family characteristics: These otoliths are very small (<2 mm OD) even in large fish. They are rounded to discoid or square with approximately horizontal sulcus which may be deep or shallow. Key la. Sulcus archaesulcoid, shallow and horizontal; otolith approximately circular . . Nemichthys scolopaceus 51.4 lb. Sulcus heterosulcoid, deep and key-hole like; otoliths approximately discoid . 2 2a. Otolith approximately square and large; ostium flared; neck narrow; dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat and approximately horizontal . . Nemichthys curvirostris 5 1 .3 2b. Otolith approximately discoid; ostium not distinctly flared; neck very slightly narrowed; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or somewhat flattened . . Avocettina acuticeps 51.1 14 Avocettina acuticeps, SSF No. 51.1 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: Known offshore from Cape to Natal; also from Brazil, northern New Zealand and equatorial Pacific. Attains 77 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3, same No. (all c. 0.85 mm OD, c. 500 mm TL), PEM 0941a, b,c; locality unknown; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Discoid to circular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared and deep. Cauda: Short, horizontal, distally rounded and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed in anterior, ridge-like and horse shoe shaped continuing around posterior joining Crista inferior. Dorsal depression: Shallow, around cauda to posterior end in midline. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Nemichthys curvirostris, SSF No. 51.3 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION: From the Cape and also widely distributed in Atlantic and Indo-Pacific. Attains about 140 cm (females). MATERIAL: 2/4 (0.45-0.55 mm OD, 1020 mm TL for 0963), 1606H, PEM 0963; localities unknown; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Discoid to square. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly to moderately flared and deep, with distinct pinched neck. Cauda: Rounded tip, angled at about 10 degrees from horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral constriction, slight in small (0.45 mm OD), distinct in larger (0.55 mm OD) otoliths. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, sulcus deep with steep walls. Crista inferior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Horse-shoe-shaped from neck posteriorly to beneath entire crista inferior, becoming the ventral depression. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very short, rounded. Excisura: Narrow becoming moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Nemichthys scolopaceus, SSF No. 51.4 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION : Known from the Cape to N atal, also very widely in all oceans. Attains about 120 cm. MATERIAL: 5/8 (0.8-1 .2 mm OD, 388-745 mm TL), PEM 13451, 13449, 13446, 13448, 13447; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Circular. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly flattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, shallow and horizontal sulcus. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constric¬ tions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. SYNAPHOBRANCHIDAE Nelson No. 57 NOTE: There may be taxonomic problems in this family; the otoliths of Diastobranchus capensis become very globular when larger, more than would normally be expected. The shapes of the sulcus acusticus vary more than usual within a species. Note also that S. kaupii has very different placement of the sulcus acusticus compared to that illustrated by Nolf (1985). Family characteristics: Otoliths shapes approximately oval but often highly irregular up to at least 4.7 mm OD. The sulcus acusticus is pseudo-ostial in almost all species described but, because the single, fused colliculum is obvious, they appear to be mesial, particularly when not coated. The otoliths are generally thick. Key la. Posterior margin of otolith flat and very wide; cauda short with broad and rounded tip; dorsal margin may be raised and pointed .... Synaphobranchus kaupii 46.7 lb. Posterior margin rounded or sharply rounded; cauda more elongate and relatively narrow; dorsal margin not raised and pointed . 2 2a. Sulcus dumb-bell shaped; caudal tip flexed and flared; dorsal margin with crest over dorsal depression . . Dysomma anguillare 46.2 2b. Sulcus moderately elongate; cauda not flared at tip; no crest over dorsal depression . 3 3a. Dorsal margin rounded; dorsal and ventral depressions absent . Diastobranchus capensis 46.1 3b. Dorsal margin rounded becoming raised with forked, notched and pointed crest; both dorsal and ventral depression shallow and joined behind cauda . . Synaphobranchus affinis 46.6 Diastobranchus capensis, SSF No. 46.1 PLATE 2 DISTRIBUTION : Off Cape Point in 860m; also Australia and New Zealand. Attains 180 cm. MATERIAL: 8/50 (2.2-4.7 mm OD, 530-1049 mm TL), PEM 13992, 13868, 14488 (RUSI 31463), 13695 (RUSI 28280), 13850, 13852, 14615, 14614, [14470 (RUSI 3 1424)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Very variable - irregular oval. Thickness: Thick to veiy thick in large otoliths. Form: - Mesial flat in small (c. 3 mm OD), becoming more convex with growth, - Lateral convex to very convex in large otoliths. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: More flattened edge, slightly irregular or serrate. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial or ostial, appears mesial in larger otoliths. Anterior delimitation of sulcus acusticus becomes indistinct, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single caudal colliculum may extend to ostium. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper than cauda, flares anteriorly. Cauda: Straight and horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:0.7, 1:1.3, 1:0.8, 1:1.2. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, present along entire sulcus except very anterior. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed, absent under ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or if present, short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Absent or moderate, notch shallow angle wide. 15 Dysomma anguUlare, SSF No. 46.2 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from off Tugela River, Natal, also from Gulf of Mexico and western Pacific. Attains 36 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.45 mm OD, 400 mm TL), PEM 0226; off Tugela mouth; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Has a raised nodule antero-dorsally. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, ir¬ regular crest present. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho- momorph, single fused colliculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Rounded and flared. Cauda: Horizontal with blunt tip flared ventrally. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along the cauda, well developed over ostium, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, fairly deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Synaphobranchus affinis, SSF No. 46.6 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Off Durban, also New Zealand, North Pacific, Gulf of Mexico and Gulf of Guinea. Attains 52 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (2.6-3.5 mm OD, 445-562 mm TL), PEM 14947, 14948, 14946, 14944, (all RUSI 35604, including 14945); Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Very varied, roughly oval. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral very convex. Lateral surface: Distinct central nucleus. Dorsal margin: Raised, may be incised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flattened and irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded, may be very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: May be slightly broader than cauda, flared. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, straight. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.0, 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent or poorly developed over ostium, well developed over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow horse-shoe shaped depression around cauda. Ventral depression: Horse-shoe shaped, see above. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Synaphobranchus kaupii , SSF No. 46.7 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Off the Cape, also from Atlantic and Indo-Pa- cific. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 6/45 (2.3-3.3 mm OD, 429-508 mm TL), PEM 14006, 13693 (RUSI 28277), 14003, 14005, 13592, 13694 (RUSI 28278), [14476 (RUSI 31458), 14491 (RUSI 31454)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to wedge-shaped. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Nucleus towards dorsal margin. Dorsal margin: Varied, small otoliths (c. 2 mm OD) rounded, large otoliths (c. 3 mm OD) flatter with postero-dorsal comer raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat¬ tened and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, may appear to be mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and flared, very poorly defined. Cauda: Horizontal, straight, narrower than ostium. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over anterior tip of ostium, well developed over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poor or absent under ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Over and posterior to cauda. Ventral depression: Small and shallow, under cauda. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. OPHICHTHIDAE Nelson No. 58 Family characteristics: As only two species of this large family available, comments here must be treated with caution. Otoliths small, oval or oblong up to at least 3.1 mm OD. Ostial, para-ostial or pseudo-ostial. Archaesulcoid or heterosulcoid and thin. Key 1 a. Opening ostial; sulcus archaesulcoid . . Muraenichthys gymnotus 42.10 1 b. Opening para-ostial or pseudo-ostial; sulcus heterosulcoid . Ophisurus serpens 42.23 Muraenichthys gymnotus , SSF No. 42.10 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Bredasdorp (probably Cape Agulhas) to Zulu- land; east Africa to central Pacific. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1 mm OD, 237mm TL), PEM 10426; Schoen- makerskop, near Port Elizabeth; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, approximately horizontal. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, very shallow notch, angle wide. Ophisurus serpens, SSF No. 42.23 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Angola to southern Mozambique; Mediterra¬ nean, eastern Atlantic, Japan and Australasia. Attains 120 cm, 250 cm in New Zealand. MATERIAL: 4/7 (1.05-3.1 mm OD, 253-585 mm TL), PEM 2146, 12820 (RUSI 28276), 2134, 0302; eastern Cape; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval in small otoliths, oblong when large. Thick¬ ness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded in small (c. 1 mm OD), flat¬ tened in large otoliths (c. 2.4 mm OD); sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded in small, flattened in large otoliths and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire in small otoliths, large; sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Pseudo-ostial in small (c. 1 mm OD), para-ostial in large otoliths (c. 2 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused, poorly defined colliculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Oval, elongate and straight. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, moderately well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, raised at the neck. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and rounded, if present. Antirostrum: Rounded and very small if present. Excisura: Very narrow in large, absent in small otoliths, notch very shallow in large, angle acute. 16 NETTASTOMATIDAE Nelson No. 59 Family characteristics: Only a single species available. Otolith oval up to 3.5 mm OD, smooth, rounded margins, sulcus opening is mesial. Nettastoma parviceps, SSF No. 47.1 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Southeast coast to southern Mozambique. Also known from Japan, Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand. Attains 82 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.5 mm OD, 490 mm TL), PEM 14912 (RUSI 35567); Cape south coast; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and en¬ tire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acus- ticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single raised colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex- cisura: Absent. CONGRIDAE Nelson No. 62 Family characteristics: Otoliths usually moderately large up to at least 1 1 mm OD, sulcus opening ostial or mesial, usually with no differentiation into ostium and cauda. Sulcus generally hori¬ zontal and generally not flexed, but filled with colliculum. Key la. Otolith opening ostial . 2 lb. Otolith opening mesial or para-ostial . 4 2a. Otolith approximately oval, biconvex and thick; ostium flares dorsally; cauda straight and narrow . . Gnathophis capensis 40.9 2b. Otolith elongate, moderately thin; ostium and cauda not differentiated but anterior sulcus may flare dorsally . . 3 3a. Sulcus ends close to posterior margin; anterior sulcus distinctly flared; rostrum moderately pointed . . Conger cinereus 40.7 3b. Sulcus ends far from posterior margin; anterior sulcus indistinct; rostrum moderately rounded and broader . . . . Conger wilsoni 40.8 4a. Otoliths oval, dorsal margin rounded . 5 4b. Otoliths elongate, dorsal margin slightly rounded or emarginate . 8 5a. Sulcus opening para-ostial; otolith rounded oval . . Ariosoma mauritianum 40.1 5b. Sulcus opening mesial; otolith irregular oval or elongate . 6 6a. Dorsal margin raised; sulcus below midline of otohth, closer to ventral margin; anterior and posterior tips of otohth tapered and sharply rounded . . Bassanago albescens 40.3 6b. Dorsal margin rounded; sulcus centrally placed; anterior and posterior tips of otohth rounded or sharply rounded, not tapered . 7 7a. Otolith broad, dorsal margin of otohth weh rounded; dorsal area broad; anterior end of horizontal colliculum blunt, posterior end tapered and not flexed . . Rhechias wallacei 40. 1 1 7b. Otolith more elongate, dorsal margin of otohth shghtly rounded; colliculum tapered anteriorly and posteriorly, shghtly flexed at tip . Uroconger lepturus 40.12 8a. Dorsal margin of otohth emarginate; otohth kidney shaped; sulcus short and broad . . Bathyuroconger vicinus 40.5 8b. Dorsal margin shghtly rounded or emarginate; otoliths oblong; sulcus elongate and narrow . . Coloconger scholesi 40.6 Ariosoma mauritianum , SSF No. 40.1 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, occasionally off Natal. At¬ tains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 - in poor condition -(6.58 mm OD, 278mmTL), 0285H; IOE Meteor; Id. AK. Otohth shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly convex. Doriial margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and shghtly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Apparently para-ostial but otohth surface eroded, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Apparently homomorph - single low colliculum. Ostium and cauda: Undif¬ ferentiated, approximately oval and shallow. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch absent. Bassanago albescens, SSF No. 40.3 PLATE 3 DISTRIBUTION: Common off Cape Point, taxonomic status worldwide uncertain. Attains almost 100 cm. MATERIAL: 3/45 (6.4-9.8 mm OD, 449-723 mm TL), PEM 8075, 13795 (RUSI 28279), 14207; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. NOTE: Variations in otohth morphology suggest that there may be taxonomic problems with the local material. Otohth shape: Oval or oblong. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral very convex. Lateral surface: Rounded and smooth. Dorsal margin: Rounded, may be raised in centre; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, shghtly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and shghtly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph - single low, elongate colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superi¬ or: Well developed. Crista inferior: Poor to well developed. Dorsal depression: Large and oval in shape. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Bathyuroconger vicinus , SSF No. 40.5 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Point and eastern tropical Atlantic in deep water. Attains 65 cm. MATERIAL: 5/7 (4.3-7 .4 mm OD, 456-760 mm TL), PEM 14641, 14639, 14640, 14621, 14620; Cape west coast; Id. MJS. Otohth shape: Elongate kidney-shaped. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly emarginate; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: rounded, entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, entire. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, shghtly raised, irregular colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, walls poorly defined. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal de¬ pression: Absent, but may be a circular pit near the dorsal margin in larger otoliths. Ventral depression: May be a shallow depres¬ sion below the colliculum. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent. Excisura: Absent. 17 Coloconger scholesi, SSF No. 40.6 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: Natal and southern Mozambique - probably more widespread; also South China Sea and east Australia. Attains 51 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.5, 10.5 mm OD, 268, 359 mm TL), PEM 14895 (RUSI 35559), 14894 (RUSI 35580); from 675 m at 34°09.3’S, 26° 51.35’E, Cape southeast coast; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Considerable ontogenetic differences in otolith shape: Large otolith oblong, small, oval. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded (6.5 mm OD) becoming emarginate (10.5 mm OD); sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, may be notched and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesul- coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single colliculum extends to¬ wards anterior margin in larger otoliths. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and Cauda: Not differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area slightly concave. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Conger cinereus cinereus, SSF No. 40.7 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout western Indian Ocean, may reach Knysna. Attains 103 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (5.7, 7.6mmOD, 630, 986mm TL), PEM 10347, 0767; eastern Cape; Id. MMS, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: Has raised ridge close to ventral margin. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, opens onto an- tero-dorsal margin, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, sin¬ gle raised colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and Cauda: Not differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in mid- to posterior sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Absent - may be a ridge in the dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, margin may be de¬ pressed. Rostrum: Large, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent, dorsal wall slopes sharply behind the excisura. Excisura: Narrow or moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Conger wilsoni, SSF No. 40.8 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: Cape to southern Mozambique; also in Aus¬ tralasia and possibly Japan. Attains 150 cm. MATERIAL: 9/22 (2.2-7.46 mm OD, 131-742 mm TL), PEM 10344, 10427, 10428, 0841, 2583, 5336, 5373, 15211, 15229; eastern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral sur¬ face: No distinguishing features (<5 mm OD), may be nodules near ventral edge (>6 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Rounded and slightly irregular (<7 mm OD), becoming raised (>7 mm OD); sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire to slightly irreg¬ ular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire (<7 mm OD), becoming irregular (>7 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial in small otoliths (<7 mm OD) becoming ostial (>7 mm OD), archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single slightly raised colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Un¬ differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent in anterior, well devel¬ oped posteriorly. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, may be ab¬ sent. Dorsal depression: Shallow oval depression may be present. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed. Rostrum: Ab¬ sent (<3 mm OD), broad and sharply rounded (>3 mm OD). Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent (<3 mm OD), narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide (>3 mm OD). Gnathophis capensis, SSF No. 40.9 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to Plettenberg Bay; also Tristan da Cunha. Attains 37 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (6.8-9. 1 mm OD, 284-383 mm TL), PEM 11384, 12595, 12596, 12750 (RUSI 28275); Agulhas Bank; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: In larger otoliths there may be a low ridge along dorsal margin. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire (6.8 mm OD), becoming lobed (>7 mm OD). Ventral margin: Rounded, entire to slightly lobed. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded becoming pointed (>7 mm OD), margin entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, opening antero-dorsally, hetero- sulcoid. Colliculum: Not clearly defined, in large specimens, anterior and posterior colliculi may be more obvious. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally. Cauda: Straight, deeper towards dorsum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed over posterior ostium to cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under cauda, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent or extremely shallow. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, shallow, broad groove from rostral tip along anterior third of margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Rhechias wallacei, SSF No. 40.11 PLATE 4 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to southern Mozambique - probably more widespread. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7.6, 7.9 mmOD, 433, 450 mm TL), PEM 13044 (RUSI 28495), 13058 (RUSI 28495); off Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Domed; sculpture, lobed, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, may be lobed, entire. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed, lobed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archae¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph with single, horizontal colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Un¬ differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Short and poorly developed over colliculum. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Large, oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Uroconger lepturus, SSF No. 40.12 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: Natal and Mozambique Channel to Red Sea and Indo-Pacific. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.75 mm OD, c. 319 mm 1L), PEM 15488 (RUSI 40548); Tugela Bank; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly raised and rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archae¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single, distinct, slightly raised and slightly flexed at tip. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and Cauda: Not differentiated, sulcus approximately horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. 18 Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. CONGRIDAE Nelson No. 62 (MURAENESOCIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: A single representative in this region. Otoliths oval to oblong, up to at least 1 1 .5 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Heteromoiph with two low colliculi. Muraenesox bagio, SSF No. 45.1 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: From Knysna eastwards to at least Durban also Madagascar, Mauritius and elsewhere in Indo-Pacific. Attains 180 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (4.8-11.4 mm OD, 470-1805 mm TL), PEM 8829, 0236, 7948; Tugela mouth and Kosi Bay; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flattened, becoming raised posteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded in small (c. 4 mm OD), flatter in large (c. 1 1 mm OD), slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or flattened and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, two low colliculi, may have dorso-ventral banding. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally. Cauda: Straight and horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.4, 1:2.5, 1:2.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus length. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moderately well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow to absent, there may be another depression at right angles to sulcus at the posterio-dorsal comer. Ventral depression: Small and shallow. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or very small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch absent or very shallow and angle wide. DERICHTHYIDAE Nelson No. 63 Family characteristics: Single species available. Otolith shape rectangular, up to at least 1.5 mm OD. Archaesulcoid sulcus, opening mesial, has dorsal depression. Nessorhamphus ingolfianus, SSF No. 49.2 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: Found in moderately deep water off the Cape, also worldwide. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1, assumed R otolith (1.5 mm OD, 449 mm TL), PEM 13365; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Rectangular. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Distinct nucleus in centre. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Flat and entire. Posterior margin: Flat and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculum, floor of sulcus smooth. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed. Crista infe¬ rior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. SERRI VOMERI DAE Nelson No. 64 NOTE: Only one species described for southern Africa, but Castle (1986, in SSF) notes that the taxonomy is confused. In our material a series of otoliths from the Sargasso Sea differed considerably from the single otolith available to us from the Cape west coast. We therefore tentatively separated the descriptions pending further taxonomic studies. Family characteristics: Otoliths have a characteristic maize ker¬ nel shape with colliculum protruding through excisura, up to about 2.1 mm OD. The two species described here differ mainly in the width to length ratios and shape. Key 1 a. Otolith rectangular, broad maize-kernel shape . . Serrivomer beanii 48.1 lb. Otolith shape elongate, narrow maize -kernel shape . . . . . Serrivomer sp. A. 48.- Serrivomer beanii, SSF No. 48.1 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: Known from off the Cape and Natal; also in Indian Ocean and North Atlantic. Attains 78 cm. MATERIAL: 3/40 (1.25-1.8 mm OD, 420-715 mm TL), 0909H, 1601H, 0904H; Sargasso Sea; Id. D. Smith, Anton Dorn expedi¬ tion. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular - like a maize kernel. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flattened and entire. Posterior margin: Flattened in larger otoliths (>1.3 mm OD), rounded in smaller (1.2 mm OD) and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph single, poorly defined, penetrates excisura, has a deep pit and a deep groove in it, very poorly defined posteriorly. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Colliculum protrudes excisura with dorsal and ventral notch to it. Serrivomer sp. A, SSF No. 48. — PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: At least the Cape west coast, general distribu¬ tion and maximum size uncertain. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.1 mm OD, 856 mm TL), PEM 13145; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM; Id. GJBR, PAH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, colliculum has a pit and a groove in it, very poorly defined posteriorly. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not clearly differentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constric¬ tions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small, rounded. Excisura: Colliculum protrudes with two notches, dorsal and ventral to it. ORDER CLUPEIFORMES CLUPEIDAE Nelson No. 69 Family characteristics: Otoliths usually small (<5 mm), thin, ovate, pseudo-archaesulcoid or heterosulcoid with ostium deeper than cauda, V-shaped posteriorly. Homomorph or heteromorph, usually poorly defined anterior colliculum. Rostrum usually elon¬ gate and distinct, crista inferior a straight ridge. 19 Key la. Otoliths ovate to discoid; rostrum short, stubby and very broad . Gilchristella aestuaria 54.3 lb. Otoliths ovate; rostrum relatively elongate . 2 2a. Dorsal and ventral margins flat and parallel; rostrum narrow, straight, elongate, may taper slightly; otoliths appear relatively narrow and elongate . 3 2b. Dorsal margin may be flat but ventral margin not flat, usually with one or more notches; rostrum not elongate; otoliths broad . 4 3a. Antirostrum small and pointed; crista superior elongate ridge; ventral margin irregular to dentate . . . . . Sardinops ocellatus 54.12 3b. Antirostrum relatively broad, angled and pointed; crista superior a short ridge; ventral margin irregular to serrate . Sardinella aurita 54.9 4a. Otoliths relatively elongate; no pit under dorsal margin of ostium near neck . 4b. Otoliths relatively short and stubby; pit under dorsal margin of ostium near neck . 5a. Distinct notch or double notch under neck on ventral margin of otolith . 5b. Ventral margin not distinctly notched, sculpture irregular, serrate or dentate . 6a. Ventral margin of otolith with two notches, separated by a digitate knob; crista superior well developed over ostium; otolith relatively narrower posteriorly . . . Dussumieria elopsoides 54.- 6b. Ventral margin of otolith with single mid-point notch or indistinct notches; crista superior ridge-like over ostium; posterior of otolith not distinctly narrow . 7 7a. Ventral margin of otolith with distinct notch at mid-point; rostrum relatively short and broad; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded, broad posteriorly; otolith appears stubby . Etrumeus whiteheadi 54.2 7b. Ventral margin of otolith with indistinct notch or more than one notch; rostrum elongate, tapered and pointed; dorsal margin slightly rounded, posterior margin narrows; otolith appears elongate and tapering . . Etrumeus teres 54. 1 8a. Crista superior approximately straight ridge over neck; no narrowing of postero-ventral corner; usually no notch on posterior margin of otolith; ventral margin of otolith very irregular to digitate . . . Sardinella gibbosa 54.10. 8b. Crista superior down-flexed over neck; posterior ventral margin with notch-like indentation just anterior to posteri¬ or corner; posterior margin of otolith has shallow notch; ventral margin of otolith irregular serrate or dentate . . . . Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus 54.4 9a. Crista superior formed into short straight ridge over anterior cauda; sculpture of ventral margin with small dentations . Sardinella albella 54.8 9b. Crista superior formed into an extremely short ridge at neck; sculpture of ventral margin of otolith serrate or with large dentations . 10 10a. Ventral margin either slightly irregular or with large dentations; ostial pit at neck distinct . . Pellona ditchela 54.7 10b. Ventral margin serrate; ostial pit at neck less distinct . Hi Isa kelee 54.5 Dussumieria elopsoides , (Bleeker, 1849) SSF No. 54.- PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: From Suez and western Indian Ocean, along coasts of Pakistan, India and Malaysia to western Pacific. Immi¬ grants in eastern Mediterranean (reported as D. acuta). Attains c. 20 cm SL (Whitehead 1985). MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.75 mm OD, 179 mm TL), PEM 15392 (RUSI 40589); Madagascar; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: Elongate groove from margin to nucleus from posterior notch. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised anteriorly, approximately flat to emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly bi-notched and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, lobed or dentate, may be slightly notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, extremely low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, elongate, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Short, approximately oval with margins poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from ostium to cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow over neck. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Etrumeus teres , SSF No. 54.1 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: From Mozambique border to Durban, possibly further south. Elsewhere western North Atlantic, eastern Pacific, Japan, Australia, off Cape Gardefui and in Red Sea (with immi¬ grants into Mediterranean). Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (3.05-3.4 mm OD, 180-207mm TL), PEM 15692, 15693, 15691, 15694 (all RUSI 42664); Red Sea; Id.MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded anteriorly, more rounded to slightly tapered posteriorly; sculpture, irregular, notched. Ventral mar¬ gin: Approximately flat, may be slightly notched, irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Approximately rounded, not bulged; irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Ho- momorph, indistinct anterior colliculum with slightly raised edges, depressed centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: V- shaped, extends to end of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, tapers pos¬ teriorly, shallow and rounded in cross section. May be a groove from caudal tip to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent, may be slight step. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like over ostium, poor over cauda, well devel¬ oped at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from ostium to cauda, well developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Absent but dorsal area slopes into sulcus at gap in crista. Ventral depression: No depression, area slopes to margin. Rostrum: Moderately elongate, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Small, angled or sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch shallow, with wide angle. Etrumeus whiteheadi , SSF No. 54.2 PLATE 5 DISTRIBUTION: Endemic species, Walvis Bay to Durban (where it overlaps E. teres). Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 9/170 (1.8-4.4 mm OD, 95-227 mm TL), PEM 10851, 7688 (RUSI 28489), 10762, 12774, 7693 (RUSI 28489), 6857, 12773, 10862, 4657; Cape east and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. 20 Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded in juveniles (c. 2 mm OD), flatter in larger otoliths (c. 3 mm OD); sculpture, irregular, notched. Ventral margin: Flatter in anterior, rounded in posterior, sculpture crenate and irregular with distinct notch in midpoint. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular may be notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct ante¬ rior colliculum with slightly raised edges, depressed centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: V-shaped and deep poste¬ riorly, extends to end of rostrum. Cauda: Shallow and rounded in cross section. Caudal tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Very slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. CoUum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium, well developed or low ridge over cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and straight along entire length, posterior tip poorly developed . Dorsal depression: Oval, above crista. Ventral depression: No depres¬ sion, area flat, sloping to margin. Rostrum: Moderately elongate, broad; sharply rounded tip. Antirostrum: Small, pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, with acute angle. GUchristella aestuaria, SSF No. 54.3 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: Estuaries from the Kosi system and Lake Sibaya south to at least Knysna; also Saldanha Bay and possibly north to the Orange River mouth. Attains 65 mm. MATERIAL: 5/8 (0.8-1.8 mm OD, 31-75 mm XL), PEM 1476, 2889, 2155, 2154, 2224; Cape south and east coasts; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Compressed and short to discoid in small otoliths (<1 mm OD), becoming ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular, small (<1 mm OD) are lobed. Posterior margin: Rounded to sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, indistinct anterior colliculum with slightly raised edges, depressed centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper than cauda and V-shaped, flared antero-dorsally. Cauda: Shallow and rounded, tip indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dor- sally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Short and ridge-like at ostio- caudal junction, poor to absent elsewhere. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like, horizontal along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Small, shallow and triangular. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt, becoming longer with growth. Antiros¬ trum: Very short and blunt becoming sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate and angle wide. Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus , SSF No. 54.4 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-Pacific, reaching south to Algoa Bay. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 6/9 (1.4-2.75 mm OD, 56-131 mm TL), 1259H, 1257H, 1260H, 1263H, PEM 15390 (RUSI 40586), 15381 (RUSI 40587); Bazaruto, Madagascar, Gulf of Aqaba; Id. PCH, TH, AD. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Straight, slightly emarginate to mid-point in juveniles (c. 1.4 nun OD) becoming approximately straight, slightly irregular becoming serrate or den¬ tate. Posterior margin: Oblique or rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, very indistinct anterior colliculum with slightly raised edges, depressed centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dorsally flared, slightly deeper than cauda. Cauda: Straight ven- trally, slightly flexed dorsal margin and shallow, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.6. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed becoming ridge-like over neck with curve over ostium, poorly developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Straight and ridge-like along most of sulcus, absent in posterior. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and moderately pointed. Excisura: Wide with shallow, wide notch. Hilsa kelee, SSF No. 54.5 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-Pacific, reaching south to Durban. Attains 24 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (4.8-4.85 mm OD, 185-190 mm TL), 0187H, 0186H; Durban; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rat, sharply flexed to antirostrum; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and serrate, especially in middle. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo- archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, anterior colliculum with raised edges with central groove. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep groove along rostrum, floor irregular and a pit at base of antirostrum. Cauda: Rounded in cross section, tip pointed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like over neck, poorly developed at extremes, absent in centre of cauda. Crista inferior: Straight and ridge-like along sulcus, absent posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Small broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Pellona ditchela, SSF No. 54.7 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-Pacific, reaching south to Durban. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (4.7-5.05 mm OD, 173-181 mm TL), PEM 15438 (RUSI 40555), 0353, 15439 (RUSI 40555); Durban, Natal; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flattened, gentle curve to antirostrum (cf. H. kelee)-, sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and dentate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, distinct ante¬ rior colliculum with raised edges, depressed central groove. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, V-shaped; flared pit anterior to neck under crista superior. Cauda: Shallower and straight, slightly flared dorsally, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped over neck as curved ridge, runs to mid-ostium, poorly developed to absent over both cauda and anterior ostium. Crista inferior: Narrow and ridge-like, poorly developed from mid-cauda posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Very shallow over cauda. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Small and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute or wide. Sardinella albella , SSF No. 54.8 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: East coast as far south as Durban, perhaps to East London. Elsewhere widespread throughout Indo-Pacific to Taiwan and Papua/New Guinea. Attains 14 cm. 21 3^033 750 57 77^0 MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.6, 3.7mmOD, 170, 172mmTL), PEM 14553 (RUSI 31405), 14554 (RUSI 31394); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Straight; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and dentate in centre. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very indistinct anterior colliculum. PseudocoIIiculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep, V-shape at posterior not well marked. Cauda: Shallow and rounded, poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, absent in posterior. Crista inferior: Narrow and ridge-like, poor in posterior. Dorsal depression: Fairly deep and oblong. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately elon¬ gate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. Sardinella ciurita , SSF No. 54.9 PLATE 6 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay, occasionally to Saldanha Bay. Elsewhere, eastern and western Atlantic, also Mediterranean, per¬ haps same sp. in Japan. Attains 31 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.3, 2.85 mm OD, 129, 152 mm TL), PEM 15499, 15498; off Jaffa, Mediterranean; lodged in JLBSII; Id. D.G. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded becoming flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat, irregular becoming serrate and crenate posteriorly. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Homomorph, low and indistinct anterior colliculum. PseudocoIIiculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, moderately nar¬ row, lying mainly along rostrum. Cauda: Horizontal, may be shallow groove from margin to caudal tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Narrow and distinct ridge, poor in posterior. Dorsal depression: Elongate in mid-area. Ventral depression: Absent, area angled to margin. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded becoming elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed becoming elongate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow becoming moderate, angle wide becoming acute. Sardinella gibbosa, SSF No. 54.10 PLATE 7 DISTRIBUTION: East coast as far south as Durban, possibly East London. Elsewhere, widespread throughout Indo-Pacific, to Phil¬ ippines, Taiwan and Western Australia. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (1.45-3.3 mm OD, 114-180 mm TL), PEM 12452, 15492 (RUSI 40551), 12451; Tugela Bank and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately straight and dentate to very irregular or digitate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Square and irregular in smaller otoliths (1.45 mm OD), rounded and entire in the larger specimens (3.3 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, anterior colliculum very poorly defined. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Shallow V-shaped, extends along rostrum. Cauda: Shallow and rounded . Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like over the neck to mid-cauda, poor elsewhere. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, straight and most prominent in centre, poor to absent at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and deep above ridge. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded, broader in small otoliths. Antirostrum: Moderately elongate and pointed, a distinct feature of large otoliths. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Sardinops ocellatus, SSF No. 54.12 PLATE 7 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic coast from southern Algoa (Baia dos Tigres) south to Cape Town and northeast to Delagoa Bay. Attains 28 cm. MATERIAL: 8/1 33 ( 1 . 1 -4.6 mm OD, 59-244 mm TL), PEM 4862, 7294, 10827, 7257, 7149, 7694 (RUSI 34151), 2509, 10867; Cape coast; Id. MJS, GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and irregu¬ lar to dentate. Posterior margin: Rounded to angular and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homosulcoid, indistinct anterior colliculum, raised ventrally. PseudocoIIiculum: Absent. Ostium: Not very deep, V-shaped posteriorly. Cauda: Shallow, straight and rounded, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorsal constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low and irregular ridge, absent in posterior. Crista inferior: Low ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Oblong and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate, narrow, sharply rounded tip. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. ENGRAULIDAE Nelson No. 70 Family characteristics: Otolith size varies with species, up to c. 7.5 mm OD. Shape oblong to fusiform or oval to elliptic, ventral margin rounded, serrate to dentate. Heterosulcoid with poorly defined anterior colliculum with ridge-like caudal cristae. Key la. No pit at dorsal margin of ostium near neck; otolith elongate oval; posterior margin of otolith and rostrum tapered; cauda oval . . Engraulis japonicus 55.1 lb. Pit under dorsal margin of ostium near neck; otolith rounded or rounded oval; posterior margin of otolith not distinctly tapered; rostrum broad; cauda straight .... 2 2a. Cristae not well developed except for narrow, low ridge above anterior cauda; tip of cauda not well defined; dorsal depression shallow; rostrum extended and broad . Thryssa setirostris 55 .5 2b. Cristae well developed, crista superior formed into a distinct ridge along cauda; caudal tip well defined; dorsal depression moderately deep and distinct; rostrum short, broad and rounded, not extended . . Thryssa vitrirostris 55 .6 Engraulis japonicus, SSF No. 55.1 PLATE 7 DISTRIBUTION: Known from the cooler waters of Indo-Pacific, extending round the Cape to Walvis Bay. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 7/178 (1.05-4 mm OD, 46-156 mm TL), PEM 3815, 4330, 10815, 12777, 7315 (RUSI 28284), 7374 (RUSI 28283), 10824, [7102 (RUSI 34125), 7363 (RUSI 34125), 7944 (RUSI 34120)]; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Gently rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Gently rounded, serrate in middle. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low, indis¬ tinct anterior colliculum. PseudocoIIiculum: Absent. Ostium: 22 V-shaped, slightly narrower than cauda. Cauda: Short, oval, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like and curved over the cauda, poor over ostium, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and curved under the cauda, well developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Small and shallow below ridge. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shal¬ low, angle acute. Thryssa setirostris, SSF No. 55.5 PLATE 7 DISTRIBUTION: East coast, south to Transkei, perhaps to East London, throughout Indian Ocean to Indonesia and China. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/17 (3.8-4.9 mm OD, 111-144 mm TL), PEM 15303 (RUSI 36865), 15312, 15314, 15308, [15304-15307 (all RUSI 36865)]; Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval with notch. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, serrate to dentate. Posterior margin: Rounded to shar¬ ply rounded, slightly irregular to serrate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct anterior colli- culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Pit in dorsal part of ostium anterior to neck, ostium and cauda of similar width. Cauda: Straight, poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.5, 1:0.5, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Curved and ridge-like over the cauda, poorly developed but curved over ostium, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under the cauda, well developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Small, shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Small, under crista inferior. Rostrum: Broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow and angle acute. Thryssa vitrirostris, SSF No. 55.6 PLATE 7 DISTRIBUTION: East coast south to Port Alfred. East Africa to Persian Gulf and coasts of India. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 7/27 (5.68-7.4 mm OD, 170-199 mm IL), PEM 1684, 11735 (RUSI 28281), 15301, 15282 (RUSI 36877), 15300, 12453, 15283 (RUSI 36877), [11730 (RUSI 28282)]; Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded with notch, to elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Well rounded, slightly serrate to den¬ tate. Posterior margin: Rounded, slightly irregular or slightly serrate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, single, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: With dorsal pit anterior to neck, ostium and cauda of similar width, sulcus angled dorso-posteriorly. Cauda: Straight, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.4, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, slightly curved posteriorly, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly or well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Large shallow area over cauda. Ventral depression: Shal¬ low below cauda. Rostrum: Short and broad, bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow angle acute. CHIROCENTRIDAE Nelson No. 71 Family characteristics: Only one species; ovate, heterosulcoid, but indistinct separation into ostium and cauda. Well developed rostrum and antirostrum with distinct excisural notch. Chirocentrus dorab, SSF No. 56.1 PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: East coast, south to Durban. Elsewhere, wide¬ spread in Indo-Pacific. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 4/8 (2.7-4.6 mm OD, 196-393 mm FL), PEM 9349, 9350, 6431, 5686; Durban; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Lateral surface: Slightly raised nucleus, with a groove originating from a notch on posterior ventral mar - gin. Thickness: Moderately thin. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculp¬ ture, slightly crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and crenate to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Square to slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Short, broad, V-shaped to central point at neck. Cauda: Approximately straight, poorly defined at tip. May be difficult to distinguish from ostium as constrictions slight. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, very short and ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed posteriorly at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from ostium to anterior cauda, well- to poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area flat and depressed with grooves. Ventral depression: Narrow below ridge. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow to moderate, angle acute. ORDER GONORYNCHIFORMES CHANIDAE Nelson No. 72 Family characteristics: The pyriform shape with extremely long, delicate rostrum and approximately straight sulcus with distinct caudal cristae, make these otoliths distinctive. A single species in this family. The differences between these otoliths and those of Gonorynchus gonorynchus suggest two distinctly different line¬ ages. Chanos chanos, SSF No. 58.1 PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, reaches as far south as the Krom River. Attains 1 .8 m. MATERIAL: 3/4 (10.9-c. 15 mm OD - but tips broken, 1 142 = 720 mmTL), 0905H, 0230H, PEM 1142; Swartkops River, AlgoaBay; Id. MJS, GJBR, TH. Otolith shape: Pyriform. Thickness: Medium thick posteriorly, rostrum thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex, raised ridge in centre. Lateral surface: Ridge in centre. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to emarginate and flattened anteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Broad and slightly rounded, becoming notched and flattened anteriorly, sculpture very irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Shape variable, irregular sculpture. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, almost entirely fill¬ ing rostrum, ostio-caudal junction a distinct V. Cauda: Slight flare after neck, narrows with slight ventral flexion, becoming a deep trough posteriorly, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9 (0230H). Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep and oval above cauda, dorsal area very 23 reduced. Ventral depression: Deep oval below cauda. Rostrum: Extremely elongate (if not broken) and sharply pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. GONORYNCHIDAE Nelson No. 73 Family characteristics: One species represented here. Otoliths small (<5 mm OD) elliptic to ovate, heterosulcoid, ostium flares dorsally, straight and horizontal cauda with ridge-like cristae. Gonorynchus gonorynchus, SSF No. 57.1 PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Chile and St Helena in the Atlan¬ tic, otherwise Indo-West Pacific, including New Zealand, Austra¬ lia, Japan and Hawaii. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 6/25 (1.35-4.8 mm OD, 117-416 mm TL), PEM 5135,5149, 11666, 13061,3789, 12199; Mozambique, Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Small otoliths (c. 1.5 mm OD) oval, becoming elliptic to ovate (>3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex in the posterior. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular, rostrum may be slightly sinu¬ ate. Posterior margin: Slightly square or rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, indistinct, centrally depressed anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper than cauda and flared dorsally. Cauda: Straight, walls parallel, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.6, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent but step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over the ostium, straight and ridge-like over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, short, straight ridge under anterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, large, continues around posterior sulcus. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large elongate and pointed (3 mm OD). Antirostrum: Minute to absent. Excisura: Wide; notch, if present, shallow and angle wide. ORDER SILURIFORMES The otoliths of these fish are developed differently to other orders. The lapillus, or utricular otolith, is much larger than the sagitta or lagena. In all prey identification, archaeological research and most fossil work, these otoliths are the only ones which are found. Consequently, the lapillus is illustrated and described here. For completeness, all three otoliths are illustrated for Plotosus nkunga. ARM DAE Nelson No. 108 Family characteristics: Otoliths are large and bulbous, usually with a spur. Groove on flattened postero-ventral margin. Key la. Small spur; otolith circular, but flattened on one side; no protrusion on antero-dorsal margin: Galeichthys ater 59.2, Galeichthys feliceps - 59.3. (indistinguishable) lb. Large spur; otolith angular; protrusion on dorsal margin . Galeichthys sp. 59.- Galeichthys ater , SSF No. 59.2 PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: Cape south coast to Port Alfred. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 5/45 (3.8-11.5 mm OD, 58-285 mm TL), PEM 10079, 10435, 10413, 6950, 6991; Cape south coast, near Cape Recife; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Circular, but flattened with a small spur on one side. Thickness: Very thick and bulbous. Form: - Mesial convex and smooth, - Lateral convex and uneven. Lateral surface: Raised nucleus and radiating grooves. Shape of margins: Rounded, one of the sides flattened or emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Otolith features: A short deep groove is found near the spur on ventral side, close to the margin. Groove ends near spur. Galeichthys feliceps, SSF No. 59.3 PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: Found in the sea, estuaries and rivers from Walvis Bay to Natal. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 4/85 (3.2-12.2 mm OD, 52-392 mm TL), PEM 3129, 3121, 10795, 15015 (RUSI 35598), [15014 (RUSI 35598)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Circular, but one side flattened with a small spur. Thickness: Very thick and bulbous. Form: - Mesial convex and smooth, - Lateral convex and uneven. Lateral surface: Nucleus raised, has radiating grooves. Shape of margins: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire to slightly irregular. Features: A short deep groove is found near the spur, close to the ventral margin, groove ends near the postero-ventral spur. Galeichthys sp., SSF No. 59. — PLATE 8 DISTRIBUTION: This presently undescribed species occurs on the eastern coast of South Africa, at least in Transkei, and probably Natal. Attains at least 57 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (13.4-16.5 mm OD, 428-578 mm IL), PEM 10361, 9217, 10359; Port St Johns and Coffee Bay, Transkei; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately square and angular, one side flat¬ tened with a large postero-ventral spur with antero-dorsal protru¬ sion. Thickness: Very thick and bulbous. Form: - Mesial convex and smooth, - Lateral very convex, uneven and lumpy. Lateral surface: Raised with uneven hump. Shape of margins: Rounded to flattened; sculpture, entire to slightly irregular. Features: A short deep groove is found near the spur, close to the margin, groove ends near the spur. PLOTOSIDAE Nelson No. 109 Family characteristics: Relatively large and thick otoliths, the two species found here have distinctly different otoliths. Key la. Otolith rectangular; surface irregular . . Plotosus nkunga 60.2. lb. Otolith circular; semi-circular groove along half of margin . Plotosus lineatus 60.1. Plotosus lineatus, SSF No. 60.1 PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout the Indo-West Pacific, possibly as far south as Algoa Bay. Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (4.7, 5.0 mm OD, 211, 223 mm TL), PEM 6470, 6462; PEO; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Lapillus circular. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial convex and smooth, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Uneven. Shape of margins: Rounded; sculpture, smooth to slightly crenate or irregular below groove. Features: Distinct semicircular groove open to margin on one side only. Plotosus nkunga, SSF No. 60.2 PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Knysna to Kosi Bay, possibly further north to Zanzibar. Attains 54 cm. MATERIAL: 4/12 (4.0-5. 8 mm OD, 313-600 mm TL), PEM 8566, 9928, 9927, 2714; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex with sharp descent to groove. - Lateral flattened and very irregular. Shape of margins: Flattened and entire on two sides, rounded and entire on the third and very irregular on the fourth. Features: Raised hump in centre, distinct groove open to margin on one side only, flattened lip near margin below groove. 24 ORDER SALMONIFORMES ARGENTINIDAE Nelson No. 131 Family characteristics: Otoliths broad or elongate with pointed rostrum. Heterosulcoid or archaesulcoid, sulcus opening ostial or ostio-caudal, usually not closed at caudal tip. Cauda horizontal. Key la. Otolith elongate to narrow, elliptic; ventral margin slightly rounded; sulcus shallow; rostrum elongate, narrow and pointed . Nansenia macrolepis 61 .3 lb. Otolith ovate or ovate to triangular, broad; ventral margin keeled or well-rounded; sulcus deeper; rostrum moderate or prominent, broad and blunt . 2 2a. Otolith ovate to triangular; sulcus opening ostio-caudal; ventral margin keeled, very irregular; rostrum prominent and broad . Argentina silus 61.- 2b. Otolith ovate; sulcus opening ostial; ventral margin bulbous, serrate to crenate; rostrum moderate, broad and pointed . Glossanodon semifasciatus 61.- Argentina silus, Ascanius, 1775 SSF No. 61.- PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Not yet recorded from this region. MATERIAL: 3/8 (10.2-11.3 mm OD), PEM 7978, 7974, 7973; North Atlantic; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Ovate to triangular. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately straight and notched; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Rostrum is serrate, posterior keeled with three points on keel. Posterior margin: Flattened or emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, covering most of rostrum, dorsal area forms overhanging lip to ostium. Cauda: Straight, deeper and widening posteriorly, slightly dorsally flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.3, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, but step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over posterior ostium and cauda, straight. Crista infe¬ rior: Poor to absent under ostium, moderately well developed along entire cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval above cauda, second oval depression close to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Prominent, broad and bluntly pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Nansenia macrolepis, SSF No. 613 PLATE 9 Note: The taxonomy of this genus is confused, and more than one species may be found off South Africa. DISTRIBUTION: From off Natal and west of Cape Peninsula. May reach 20 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (3.7-6.2 mm OD, 13166 = 95 mm TL, 5058 = 123 mm SL), PEM 13166, 13162, 5058 (RUSI 14112); Kenya and Cape west coast; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Straight or rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and cre¬ nate. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular to crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-caudal, archaesulcoid. Collicu- lum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, sulcus indistinct posteriorly. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, short ridge in centre. Crista inferior: Absent, may have short, well developed area in centre. Dorsal depression: Shallow oval depression. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Large elongate and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Glossanodon semifasciatus, Kishinouye, 1904 SSF No. 61.— PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Recorded locally from Mozambique. MATERIAL: 4/7 (4.0-5.2mmOD, 11 1-150 mm TL), PEM 12907, 12905, 12908, 12904 (all except 12905 RUSI 34087); Mozam¬ bique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral sur¬ face: Shallow pit, and rings may be visible. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, sinuate or lobed. Ventral margin: Bulbous, serrate, crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Straight and slightly ir¬ regular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, flared and deeper than cauda, covering most of rostrum. Cauda: Straight and open at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1. Col¬ lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, poor under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and irregular. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. BATHYLAGIDAE Nelson No. 132 Family characteristics: Small (to c. 5.5 mm), oblong to fusiform otoliths, heterosulcoid, with ostial openings and pointed rostrum. Sulcus horizontal, poorly defined caudal tip. Key la. Rostrum tapered, narrow and pointed; no groove along dorsal margin of rostrum; posterior margin of otolith tapering slightly and sharply rounded; dorsal area broad . Bathylagus sp. 62.- lb. Rostrum elongate, slightly broader; groove along dorsal margin of rostrum; posterior margin of otolith rounded; dorsal area narrower . 2 2a. Rostrum elongate, not distinctly tapered; antirostrum small . Bathylagus antarcticus 62.1 2b. Rostrum moderately elongate, tapered; antirostrum absent . Bathylagus bericoides 62.2 Bathylagus antarcticus, SSF No. 62.1 PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Antarctica, anti-tropical in Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Attains 15 cm or larger. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.3 mm OD, 230 mm SL), PEM 13084; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Approximately fusiform. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised and slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate under ostium, slightly ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum : Homomorph, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally, groove along dorsal margin of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, deep in the middle, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Ridge-like anteriorly, becoming poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor at extremes. Dorsal de¬ pression: Oval and deep, dorsal area overhangs ostium as a Up. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shaUow, angle acute. 25 Bathylagus bericoides, SSF No. 62.2 PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout tropical and subtropical seas. At¬ tains at least 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.6 mm OD, 150 mm SL), PEM 13788; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised and flattened; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, groove along dorsal edge of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Shallow - the dorsal area overhangs the ostium as a slight lip. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Bathylagus sp., SSF No. 62. — PLATE 9 DISTRIBUTION: At least Cape west coast. Attains at least 148 mm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.3 mm OD, 148 mm SL), PEM 13085; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Ovate to elliptic. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Distinctly raised, flattened; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly lobed. Posterior margin: slightly tapered, sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally and contin¬ ues along rostrum. Cauda: Straight and deeper than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Poorly defined raised area between the ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed over ostium, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed in centre, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately long and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. OPI STHOPROCTI DAE Nelson No. 133 Family characteristics: Otolith shape varies from butterfly-like to approximately square or circular. Sulcus either archaesulcoid or heterosulcoid with anterior colliculi or no raised colliculi. The variations within the family may suggest different lineages. Key la. Otolith butterfly shaped; distinct grooves across dorsal and ventral areas . Opisthoproctus grimaldii 63.1 lb. Otolith circular or square to oval; no distinct grooves across dorsal and ventral areas . 2 2a. Otolith circular to triangular; sulcus heterosulcoid; rostrum short and blunt . . Opisthoproctus soleatus 63.2 2b. Otolith oval to square; sulcus archaesulcoid; rostrum short, very broad, blunt and lobed . . Winteria telescopa 63.4 Opisthoproctus grimaldii, SSF No. 63.1 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: One specimen off northern Namibia. Most taken from North Atlantic but there are a few records from the Indo-West Pacific. Attains 70 mm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.65 mm OD), PEM 14812; Walter Shoal, from stomach of Tursiops truncatus, otolith Id. D. Nolf. Otolith shape: Tall - butterfly shaped. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Grooved towards margins. Dorsal margin: Straight, sloping; sculpture, serrate, deeply grooved. Ventral margin: Sharply pointed keel, anterior margin slightly irregular, becoming crenate, lobed posteriorly. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, single anterior raised colliculum protrudes through ex¬ cisura. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, forming a straight sulcus acusticus which is deeper ventrally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed with short ridged crest in centre. Crista inferior: Well developed except for short ridge in centre. Dorsal depression: Boomerang-shaped along posterior of sulcus, bending dorsally: dorsal area distinctly grooved. Ventral depression: Small and under the ridge: Ventral area with uneven pattern and shallow grooves. Rostrum: Short, very broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Short, very broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Opisthoproctus soleatus, SSF No 63.2 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Not yet reported from this area, but probably occurs here. Known from Atlantic and Indo-West Pacific. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.6, 6.8 mm OD, 7964 = 81 mm SL), 0339H, PEM 7964; North Atlantic; Id. PAH, A.K. Otolith shape: Rounded to triangular. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial flat. - Lateral convex, forming posterior bulge. Lateral surface: Margin grooved. Dorsal margin: Approximately straight; sculpture, with indentations, becoming serrate in large otoliths (c. 6.8 mm OD). Ventral margin: Bulbous, entire anteri¬ orly, lobed posteriorly. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single anterior colliculum at front of ostium. Pseu¬ docolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared slightly dorsally. Cauda: Straight not distinctly closed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent but slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Poor to absent over ostium, ridge-like over cauda with uneven, lobed appearance in large otoliths. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area concave and grooved. Ventral depression: Shallow depression below ostium. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Small and angular. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow with acute angle. Winteria telescopa, SSF No. 63.4 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal. Recently recorded from Cape west coast. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.1 mm OD, 146 mm TL), PEM 13328; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Square to circular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Lat¬ eral surface: Raised nucleus in centre, growth rings visible. Dor¬ sal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Hat and lobed. Posterior margin: Hat and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differenti¬ ated, forming an oval sulcus, deep in the centre. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed, crescentic in shape. Crista inferior: Short, straight elevated section on the rostral tip which is disconnected from the crescentic, poorly developed crista. A domed ridge occurs postero-ventrally. Dorsal depression: Most of dorsal area depressed, becoming deeper close to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Crescentic shape under sulcus. Rostrum: 26 Very broad, blunt and lobed. Antirostrum: Broad, short and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. ALEPOCEPH ALI DAE Nelson No. 134 Family characteristics: Approximately ovate, raised dorsal mar¬ gin with distinct rostrum. Heterosulcoid with ostium deeper than cauda. Usually ostio-caudal, crista superior usually ridge-like over ostium. Colliculi indistinct or absent. Key la. Otolith squarely ovate; crista superior poorly developed; rostrum short, broad, rounded and irregular . Xenodermichthys copei 64.18 lb. Otolith ovate; crista superior well developed or ridge-like; rostrum sharply rounded . 2 2a. Crista superior relatively poorly developed, ridge less distinct; ostium shallower than 2b; ventral margin of otolith slightly irregular; dorsal margin rounded . Alepocephalus australis 64.1 2b. Crista superior with distinct broad ridge; ostium deep; ventral margin of otolith distinctly serrate; dorsal margin domed posteriorly . Alepocephalus sp. 64.- Alepocephalus australis, SSF No. 64.1 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Apparently widely distributed in temperate wa¬ ters of southern hemisphere; a similar Atlantic form north of 15°S may not be conspecific. Benthopelagic. Attains at least 60 cm SL. MATERIAL: 7/17 (3. 4-6.8 mm OD, 230-469 mm TL), PEM 13781, 13780, 13774, 13773, 13779, 13775, 13481; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire to slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Straight and irregular to slightly sinuate. Posterior margin: Straight or notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Horizontal, extends along rostrum, deeper than cauda flares dorsally in larger otoliths. Cauda: Poorly defined, flares slightly posteriorly and opens onto posterior margin. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Col- lum: Absent, but step up to shallow cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like, forms a lip over ostium, less well developed posteri¬ orly. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: A slight groove occurs where the dorsal area meets the crista superior. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, blunt, becomes sharply rounded with growth. Antiros- trum: Small, broad, well rounded, becomes larger with growth. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow and angle wide to acute in larger otoliths. Alepocephalus sp., SSF No. 64.- PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Uncertain. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.4 mm OD, 294 mm TL), PEM 14473 (RUSI 31407); Cape west coast; Id. MIS - confirmed by MEA as A. australis but has a distinctly different otolith which may suggest taxonomic problems, therefore this otolith treated separately here. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Domed posteri¬ orly, emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Irregular, dor- sally rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Horizontal, very deep, flares slightly at anterior. Cauda: Shallow, opens at notch. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Present, wall-like structure. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium, becoming reduced pos¬ teriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, poor under cauda. Dorsal depression: Boomerang-shaped, curving up posteriorly. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and moderately short, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Xenodermichthys copei , SSF No. 64.18 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Common off South Africa and Madagascar Ridge; widely distributed in Atlantic, tropical Pacific, Tasman Sea, Great Australian Bight and Indian Ocean. Attains 20 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1. 9-2.5 mm OD, c. 122-163 mm TL), PEM 14889 (RUSI 35524), 13394; Cape west and south coasts; Id. PAH, MJS. Otolith shape: Squarely ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded to angular; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and irregularly lobed. Posterior margin: Straight and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may be ostio-caudal, indistinct), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately wide, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Indistinct dorsally. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.9. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, absent posteriorly. Crista inferior: Strong, double ridge with pits, narrowing anteriorly, extends along the entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and short, rounded and irregular. Antirostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow and angle wide. SEARSIIDAE Nelson No. 135 (PLATYTROCTIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Otoliths ovate, ostium deep, cauda shal¬ low and indistinct. Ostial (caudal tip very indistinct). Distinct rostrum, usually pointed or sharply rounded. Key la. Rostrum elongate; ostium deep and narrow, lies along rostrum . Persparsia kopua 65.7 lb. Rostrum short and tapering; ostium shallow and oval . 2 2a. Otolith shape square to ovate; rostrum small and pointed; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded and entire; ventral margin serrate .... ISagamichthys sp. A 65. 8 A 2b. Otolith ovate; rostrum moderate and pointed; dorsal margin rounded and lobed; ventral margin slightly rounded and sinuate .... ?Sagamichthys sp. B. 65.8B Persparsia kopua, SSF No. 65.7 PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Atlantic to New Zealand, mostly be¬ tween 30° and 50° S. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 7/8 (1.3-4.6 mm OD, 64-181 mm TL), PEM 13401, 13202, 13269, 13200, 13270, 15358, 13267; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded in small otoliths (c.1.3 mm OD), becoming square or raised and rectangular in large ones (>2 mm); sculpture, small entire, becoming irregular to lobed with growth. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, sculpture irregular to dentate posteriorly in large otoliths. Posterior margin: Straight and irregular to slightly sinu¬ ate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep in posterior, shallow anteri- 27 orly, extending to end of rostrum. Cauda: Very poorly defined, tip open. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Col- lum: Absent but marked step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, poor to absent over cauda. Crista infe¬ rior: Ridge-like under ostium, poor to absent under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and small above dorsal crista. Ventral depres¬ sion: Shallow, towards the end of the rostrum. Rostrum: Very prominent, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Broad and rounded but may be absent in small otoliths. Excisura: Wide, notch shal¬ low, angle wide to acute. ISagamichthys schnakenbecki , SSF No. 65.8 NOTE: Otoliths from fish collected on the Cape west coast cruise FRS Africana 060, identified as this species. Variations between the otoliths suggest there may be two species, therefore they are treated separately here as “A” and “B”. ?Sagamichthys schnakenbecki A, SSF No. 65.8A PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Uncertain. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.9 mm OD, 225 mm TL), PEM 13331; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Square to ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: -Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, irregular and serrate. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded, flat to slightly emar- ginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul- coid, cauda indistinct. Colliculum: Homomorph, single indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, deep towards neck. Cauda: Shallow, flared and very poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsal constriction. Col- lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Distinct, ridge¬ like and curved over anterior ostium, absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under the posterior of ostium, poor to absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Large shallow depression over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. ?Sagamichthys schnakenbecki B, SSF No. 65.8B PLATE 10 DISTRIBUTION: Uncertain. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.5 mm OD, 141 mm TL), PEM 13266; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded and lobed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, irregular and sinuate. Posterior margin; Slightly emarginate and lobed. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep towards posterior. Cauda: Shallow, very poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsal constriction. Col- lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Low ridge over ostium, absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under the posterior of ostium, poor to absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Large, very shallow depression over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Large, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moder¬ ate, angle wide. ORDER STOMI IFORMES GONOSTOMATIDAE Nelson No. 144 Family characteristics: Otoliths usually have elongate rostrum (in some species short) and rounded posterior margin. Generally small ( <3 mm OD). Heterosulcoid with pit in cauda. Key la. Otolith teardrop-shaped; rostrum elongate; cauda with shallow pit . Gonostoma elongation 74.14 lb. Otolith ovate to elliptic or rounded; rostrum not elongate; cauda with deeper pit . 2 2a. Otolith ovate to elliptic with ventral margin flat; ostium short and deep; ventral margin of rostrum flat and depressed . Gonostoma bathyphilum 74.12 2b. Otolith elliptic and rounded with ventral margin rounded; ostium shallower; ventral margin of rostrum angled but not depressed . 3 3a. Rostrum short, angular and pointed; antirostrum absent or minute; ostium distinct and flared; crista superior a distinct ridge . Bonapartia pedaliota 74.1 3b. Rostrum short and blunt; antirostrum small and rounded; ostium indistinct; crista superior low and ridge-like over caudal pit only . . Gonostoma atlanticum 74.11 Bonapartia pedaliota , SSF No. 74.1 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: Oceanic, mesopelagic, subtropical/tropical At¬ lantic, Gulf of Mexico, Indian Ocean; reported from 19°03’S, 11°27’E by Karrer (1975). Attains c. 75 mm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (both 1.3 mm OD, TL not recorded), 0363H, 0341 H; IOEM; Id. AK. Otolith shape: Elliptic, appears rounded with protruding rostrum. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded, entire under posterior, slightly serrate under rostrum. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, anterior low colliculum, pit in cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared with a rough floor. Cauda: Pit in cauda, more shallow towards tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Marked dorsal, slight ventral, con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.5. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like over cauda, well developed over ostium, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval depression above ridge. Ventral depression: Absent, margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Small, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute to absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Gonostoma atlanticum , SSF No. 74.11 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: In tropical/subtropical waters of all oceans; 25°S26’S, 38°11’E and 39°01’S, 20°04’Ein this region. Attains 6-7 mm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.0 mm OD = 1723, 3408 broken, 51,65 mm SL), PEM 1723, 3408; Transkei and eastern Cape; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Elliptic - rounded with slightly elongate rostrum. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly concave, -Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded to slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, ostium and cauda difficult to distinguish. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shallow, along rostrum (our specimens broken). Cauda: Contains pit. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Not clear. Ostium/cauda: Not measured, broken rostra. Collum: Very low collum may be present. Crista superior: Ridge-like over caudal pit only. Crista inferior: Well developed under caudal pit. Dorsal depression: The entire dorsal area is depressed. Ventral depression: Shallow, narrow depres¬ sion under crista. Rostrum: Apparently elongated and tapering (broken). Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Probably wide (broken), notch shallow, angle wide. 28 Gonostoma bathyphUum, SSF No. 74.12 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: In temperate/subtropical Atlantic and Pacific oceans; off Cape Point and from 33°41’S, 05°54’E. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/3 (1.25 mm OD, 125 mm SL), PEM 3442; off Transkei; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Ovate to elliptic. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Two indentations on each side at base of rostrum. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Flat and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Short, deep and pinched. Cauda: Pit-like with narrow, shallow tip to posterior. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3. Col- luin: Wall-like structure. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Large, triangular shaped. Ventral depression: Triangular area on the rostrum. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, no distinct notch. Gonostoma elongatum , SSF No. 74.14 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: In all three major oceans; off Saldanha and from 19°13’-40°S, 10°E-13"W. Attains 275 mm. MATERIAL: 5/12 (1. 5-3.4 mm OD, c. 87-235 mm SL), PEM 3473, 1728, 1729, 3443, 13086; Cape west coast and Natal to southeast Cape coast. Otolith shape: Tear-drop. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Raised nucleus with ridge along middle of rostrum. Dorsal margin: Rounded to slightly lobed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be lobed, and sculpture entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial: shallow trough behind caudal tip gives appearance of ostio-caudal opening, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, lies along the length of rostrum, may be very indistinct. Cauda: May have deep pit, wider but edges poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1 (others damaged). Collum: Indistinct but there is a slightly raised area between ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Absent, except there may be a low ridge over caudal pit. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent but there is a shallow post-caudal trough. Rostrum: Large elongate, tapering to a point. Antirostrum: Absent but antero-dorsal wall lobed, rounded and raised behind excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. STERNOPTYCHIDAE Nelson No. 145 Family characteristics: The different otolith forms found in this family suggest a polyphyletic lineage and that Maurolicus belongs to a different family, possibly Photichthyidae. For the purposes of this key, the current status is retained. Otoliths tall or high at least posteriorly with steaight or lunate posterior margin. Heterosulcoid and ostial. In the Stemoptychini there is a well developed posterior colliculum, anterior may be developed and fused or absent. In Maurolicus there is no raised colliculum and rostrum pointed. Polyipnus also has pointed rostrum. Key la. Otolith approximately triangular or ear-like; pointed or extended rostrum . 2 lb. Otolith tall or discoid; rostrum short, broad and rounded . 4 2a. Otolith approximately triangular; antirostrum absent; posterior margin of otolith approximately straight; crista superior straight ridge over cauda . . Maurolicus muelleri 75.1 2b. Otolith shape ear-like; antirostrum digit-like; posterior margin of otolith rounded; crista superior absent . 3 3a. Dorsal area larger than ventral area and dorsal comer of otolith more acute than ventral comer; antirostrum elongate . Polyipnus indicus 75.8 3b. Dorsal and ventral area similar sized with dorsal and ventral comers of otolith symmetrical; antirostrum short . Polyipnus polli 75.10 4a. Otolith discoid, not tall . . . Stemoptyx diaphanal5.il 4b. Otolith tall . 5 5a. Ostium deep, flared anteriorly with no anterior colliculum; posterior colliculum raised and smooth in cauda; caudal tip open .... Argyropelecus sladeni 75.7 5b. Ostium filled by colliculum with an elongate pit, fused to posterior colliculum; caudal tip closed . 6 6a. Anterior caudal pit elongate; ostium elongate; cauda elongate . Argyropelecus affinis 75 .4 6b. Anterior caudal pit shorter; ostium short and oval; cauda short . Argyropelecus gigas 75.5 Maurolicus muelleri, SSF No. 75.1 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: In all oceans, more common in colder regions. Attains c. 6 cm. MATERIAL: 5/90 (1. 3-2.0 mm OD, 37-57 mm TL), PEM 14742, 7111, 7121, 7128, 7001 (RUSI 37440), [7003 (RUSI 37441)]; Cape west coast and Namibia; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately triangular, small are more rounded. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex, narrowing to rostrum. Dorsal margin: Approximately straight, angled to rostrum; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Approx¬ imately straight, angled to rostrum and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Generally rounded with sharp angles at dorsal and ventral comers, sculpture is slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low, indistinct an¬ terior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Sulcus acusticus: Anterior half of sulcus is deeper than posterior. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Ridge-like and straight along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Absent in anterior of sulcus. In the posterior the ridge is divided into two parts: a short curved one, then a short straight part. Dorsal depression: Absent Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Prominent, tapering anteriorly to a point. Antirostrum: Absent dorsal wall rises distinctly posterior to excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch absent or very shallow. Argyropelecus affinis, SSF No. 75.4 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: Once reported from this area, abundant north of 10°S latitude along west African coast and to at least 15°S near Madagascar in Indian Ocean. Widely distributed in all three major oceans. Attains 70 mm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.25 mm OD, TL not recorded), PEM 0937; locality unknown; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Dorso-ventrally oval. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Domed; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and irreg¬ ular. Posterior margin: Gently rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal without coating, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior and posterior colliculi raised and fused, with anterior pit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: With smooth anterior colliculum and a deep, 29 elongate pit. Cauda: Completely filled by smooth posterior colli- culum, with slight ventral flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal de¬ pression: Shallow depression above ostium, and a distinct trough along entire sulcus, reaching margins. Ventral depression: Shal¬ low, below the ostium. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Small, notch absent. Argyropelecus gigas, SSF No. 75.5 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: Common in this area, particularly west of 20° E and to 40° S, southeast of Cape of Good Hope, Indian Ocean to 40°S and in South Atlantic to 38°S; also reported from the Pacific. Exceeds 1 10 mm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (1.8, 2.15 mm OD, 85, c. 90 mm SL), PEM 13132, 12055; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Dorso-ventrally oval. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Domed; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and entire, becoming irregular in larger otoliths. Posterior margin: Straight, may be indented, sculpture slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, anterior and posterior colliculi raised and fused with ante¬ rior pit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Contains smooth anterior colliculum with elongated pit. Cauda: Filled by smooth posterior colliculum, with ventral flexion. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along length of sulcus. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: No depression, but trough runs along entire sulcus, not quite reaching posterior mar¬ gin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short and broad. Antirostrum: Absent to minute. Excisura: Small, notch within excisura absent. Argyropelecus sladeni, SSF No. 75.7 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: Probably limited in this area to west of 20° E. Worldwide; reported to 12° S in Indian Ocean. Seldom exceeds 60 mm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (0.95, 1.5 mm OD, 0261H 43.5 mm TL, 0939 not recorded), 0261 H, PEM 0939; locality not recorded; Id. AK, IEF. Otolith shape: Dorso-ventrally oval. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Dome-shaped; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and entire. Posterior margin: Approximately straight and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but in uncoated otoliths may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromorph, single smooth colliculum in cauda only. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared ventrally. Cauda: Filled by smooth posterior colliculum, with ventral flexion, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, distinct step up to cauda. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, well developed to ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent, shallow trough above sulcus. Ventral depression: Slight depression below cauda. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow and wide. Polyipnus indie us, SSF No. 75.8 PLATE 11 DISTRIBUTION: Mesopelagic; distribution not well docu¬ mented; known only from east African coast from 30° S to 5°N latitude. Attains 7 mm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.65, 3.0 mm OD, 3486 = 45 mm SL, 14914 = 46 mm TL), PEM 3486 (SAM 28717), 14914 (RUSI 35518); Cape south coast and Transkei; Id. MEA and PAH. Otolith shape: Posteriorly lunate, ear-like in appearance. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Crested; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded to flattened and entire. Posterior margin: Lu¬ nate and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph with single, raised, rod-like posterior colliculum in cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small, flared with a rough floor confined to antero-dorsal part of rostrum. Cauda: Ventral margin horizontal below colliculum, dorsal mar¬ gin indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, (3486 broken). Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Low ridge-like along entire sulcus acusticus. Dorsal depression: Large, deep depres¬ sion above cauda, a posterior depression close to margin, lunate in shape. Ventral depression: Large depression below cauda and small one below ostium may be present. Rostrum: Narrow and pointed. Antirostrum: Large, digit-like and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch deep, angle acute. Polyipnus polli, SSF No. 75.10 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Atlantic continental margins from Gulf of Guinea to at least 25°S. Seldom exceeds 50 mm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (otolith damaged, 20 mm SL), 0260H; locality unknown; Id. AK. Otolith shape: Posteriorly lunate, ear-like in shape. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral very convex. Dorsal margin: Crested and round; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Keeled and entire. Posterior margin: Lunate and slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, a single rod-like posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Floor rough, confined to anterior dorsal part of rostrum. Cauda: Contains the raised, rod¬ like colliculum, margins are indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: Rostrum damaged. Collum: Absent, slight step present. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Small, cir¬ cular hollow above cauda. Ventral depression: Small, circular hollow below cauda,there is a second shallow depression at the base of the rostrum. Rostrum: Small but rostrum is broken in our specimen. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ate, notch shallow, angle acute. Sternoptyx diaphana , SSF No. 75.11 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION : Oceanic, in this area, primarily east of 30° E and north of 35° S; rare in Atlantic part of this region; worldwide in tropical and temperate seas. Seldom exceeds 50 mm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (0.65, 0.7 mm OD, 29, c. 34 mm SL), PEM 1740, 3390; northern Natal and southeast Cape; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, a single, smooth posterior colliculum is present. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared with floor uneven. Cauda: Filled with a smooth colliculum, there is a slight ventral flexion, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ab¬ sent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and angle wide. 30 PHOTICHTHYIDAE Nelson No. 146 Family characteristics: Otoliths moderate in size, up to 6 mm OD, broad posteriorly, narrow rostral tip. Sulcus heterosulcoid, flared posteriorly with straight cauda. Key la. Dorsal margin flat or slightly rounded; rostrum ventral margin serrate; antirostrum small or rounded; crista superior a low ridge .... Photichthys argenteus 73.4 lb. Dorsal margin flat and angular; rostrum ventral margin irregular; antirostrum absent; crista superior a well developed and distinct ridge . . Vinciguerria lucetia 73.- Photichthys argenteus, SSF No. 73.4 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: All three major oceans; southeast Atlantic, southeast of Cape Agulhas and off Natal coast. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/66 (3.6-5. 6 mm OD, 188-251 mm TL), PEM 14064, 13673, 9017 (RUSI 37480), 13669 , [9016-9019 (RUSI 37480)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. NOTE: Otoliths delicate - most rostral tips broken. Otolith shape: Tear-drop. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, -Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Shape is rounded in posterior, straight to rostral tip, sculpture is slightly irregular posteriorly, serrate under rostrum. Posterior margin: Angular postero-dorsal wall, becoming rounded in mid posterior area, sculpture slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, single colliculum in ostium and cauda, depressed in centre, raised at edge. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared onto rostrum. Cauda: Straight and narrow, floor continuous with ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1 (14064), rest damaged. Collum: Absent, no step present. Crista superior: Well developed in anterior, ridge¬ like over the anterior caudal region. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped in anterior, becoming less developed towards posterior. Dorsal depression: Area flat, shallow depression around posterior of cauda. Ventral depression: Raised plateau below sulcus with depression anterior to it. Rostrum: Elongate, tapering and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle varies. Vinciguerria lucetia, Garman, 1899 SSF No. 73.- PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Pacific, not yet recorded in this region. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.75 mm OD, TL not recorded), PEM 0532; off Mexico; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flat, anterior and posterior comers are angular; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Comers an¬ gular and shape irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small, flared anteriorly and lies along the length of the rostrum. Cauda: Straight and horizontal, has a deep anterior pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ostium generally narrower than cauda, slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Low wall-like structure between the ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Straight and ridge-like over cauda only, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Straight and ridge-like under the cauda only. Dorsal depression: Large oval depression covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent but raised plateau under crista. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute but dorsal wall rises vertically behind excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch ab¬ sent or very shallow. CHAULIODONTIDAE Nelson No. 147 Family characteristics: Otoliths minute (<2 mm), oval to discoid with archaesulcoid sulcus. Homomorph, fused colliculum with anterior slit and posterior small pits. Two species described here very difficult to distinguish using otoliths, no key provided. Otoliths very similar to Stomiidae. Chauliodus minimus, SSF No. 68.1 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Taken offshore in the Atlantic; South Atlantic between 7° and 40° S. Attains 14.5 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.2 mm OD, 219 mm TL), PEM 14754; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral sur¬ face: Shallow pit at nucleus. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, very deep groove with dorsal flexion. Cauda: With deep and elongate pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6. Collum: Wall-like confluent with top of cristae. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped or absent. Dorsal depression: Crescentic, curves around posterior of cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Nar¬ row, no notch. Chauliodus sloani, SSF No. 68.2 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Taken offshore off southern African coasts. Circumglobal between 50°N and 50° S. Attains more than 30 cm. MATERIAL: 8/24 (0.75-1.5 mm OD, 149-263 mm SL), PEM 1734, 14915 (RUSI 35602), 13679, 13681, 13676, 3400, 13787, 14919 (RUSI 35602); Cape west coast and southeast coast; Id. PAH, MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral sur¬ face: Shallow pit at nucleus. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum in ostium, completely fills cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, slightly flared anteriorly, colliculum with pit or slit. Cauda: Infilled by colliculum, with 2-3 small, deep pits. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slightly constricted dorsally. Ostium/cauda: all c. 1:0.7. Collum: Steep on ostial side. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Poorly developed to absent. Dorsal depression: Crescentic, curving around posterior of cauda. Ventral depression: Narrow deep trough below colliculum. Ros¬ trum: Broad, minute and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, no notch. STOMIIDAE Nelson No. 148 Family characteristics: Based on the single species. Otoliths minute, and rounded with pit in low, fused colliculum. Otoliths similar to Chauliodontidae. Stomias boa boa, SSF No. 67.2 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Taken offshore off southern Africa. Circumglo¬ bal between about 20° and 45° S; a separate population in Medit¬ erranean Sea and off northwest Africa. Attains more than 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (0.7- 1.2 mm OD, 152-245 mm TL), PEM 14918 (RUSI 35523), 14727, 13199; Cape south and west coasts; Id. PAH, MEA. 31 Otolith shape: Circular and minute. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and en¬ tire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused col- liculum in ostium and cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not distinguishable, sulcus horizontal, deep pit vari¬ ably placed in colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No con¬ strictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Low ridge along sulcus length. Dorsal depression: Rounded area in anterior. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Minute and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded or absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. ASTRONESTHIDAE Nelson No. 149 Family characteristics: Otoliths small (<3 mm), ovate, heterosul- coid, ostial with deeper ostium than cauda, with post-caudal trough. NOTE: Family currently under revision. Key la. Otolith tall to ovate or hour-glass shaped . 2 lb. Otolith ovate, not tall . 3 2a. Otolith tall ovate; posterior margin slightly rounded and slightly oblique; ostium horizontal but flared dorsally; rostrum short and sharply rounded . . Borostomias mononema 69.8 2b. Otolith hour-glass shaped; posterior margin emarginate; ostium flexed ventrally on rostrum; rostrum short, broad and rounded . Neonesthes capensis 69.9 3a. Ventral margin with step-like depression; no distinct depression posterior to caudal tip . . Astronesth.es boulengeri 69.1 3b. Ventral margin depression not step-like; depression posterior to caudal tip .... Astronesthes indicus 69.3 Astronesthes boulengeri, SSF No. 69.1 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal between 30° and40°S. Attains 21 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.6, 2.7mmOD, 237, 249mmTL), PEM 13301, 13302; Cape west coast; Id. PCH, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irreg¬ ular. Ventral margin: Flatter than dorsal surface, slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be indented. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared dorsally. Cauda: Horizontal and narrow. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.5. Collum: Defi¬ nite wall-like structure. Crista superior: Well developed over the ostium and neck, poor over cauda. Crista inferior: Narrow, rough ridge under cauda, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent. Ventral depression: Margin distinctly depressed, post-cau¬ dal depression present. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent but dorsal margin bulges above ostium. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow and very wide. Astronesthes indicus, SSF No. 69.3 PLATE 12 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal in tropical waters, taken between 33° and 35° south on Atlantic side but not yet south of 20°S on the east coast of southern Africa. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1. 2-2.4 mm OD, 106-225 mm SL), PEM 13300, 13298, 13297; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Slight depression at nucleus. Dorsal margin: Rounded to domed; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be slightly indented and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dor¬ sally, deeper than the cauda. Cauda: Straight, may have shallow pit, tip indistinct, abuts a posterior trough. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Usually present either narrow or broad, low wall¬ like structure. Crista superior: Ridge- like in anterior, well devel¬ oped towards posterior. Crista inferior: A narrow ridge under the cauda, poorly developed in anterior and at posterior tip. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area undulating and depressed. Ventral de¬ pression: Narrow, under the ridge, may join posterior trough. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded, may be absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Borostomias mononema, SSF No. 69.8 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION : Reported from Atlantic coast of southern Africa at 28 °S and from Indian Ocean to about 25 °S. Mainly in tropical waters of Atlantic and Indian oceans. Attains 31 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.1 mm OD, 303 mm TL), PEM 13272; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Tall and ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly lobed. Posterior margin: Straight and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally and deeper than cauda. Cauda: Straight, horizontal shallow with shallow pits. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along the length of the sulcus. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under cauda, poorly developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area undulating with one depression near sulcus and one near margin; posterior trough at tip of cauda. Ventral depression: Area immediately below crista is raised, crescentic depression close to margin. Rostrum: Broad, short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and slightly pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Neonesthes capensis, SSF No. 69.9 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern and southern parts of this area. Sub¬ tropical/temperate waters of all oceans, but appears to be rare or absent in tropical waters. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 4/9 (1 .8-1 .9 mm OD, 140-159 mm SL), PEM 13397, 3470, 13395, 13382; Cape west coast and off Natal; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Discoid to hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Domed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or slightly in¬ dented and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-cau- dal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper depression, with slight ventral flexion. Cauda: Shallower, approximately straight, floor uneven but not raised. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.25. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along length of sulcus, less developed in smaller otoliths. Crista inferior: Uneven ridge along the length of the sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large, shallow depression. A small posterior depression is present behind the caudal tip. Ventral depression: Groove under crista under which there is a raised plateau. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. 32 MELANOSTOMIIDAE Nelson No. 150 NOTE: Considerable variation was found in the otoliths of species in this family. Because it is currently being revised, these identi¬ fications should be treated with caution. Family characteristics: Otoliths approximately discoid or circular and small (<2mm OD). Sulcus either pit-like or narrow and flaring anteriorly and usually ostial. Key la. Sulcus pit-like, archaesulcoid . 2 lb. Sulcus narrow or slit-like, heterosulcoid . 3 2a. Rostrum and antirostrum minute; excisural notch absent; sulcus a shallow and oval pit . . Eustomias lipochirus 72.10 2b. Rostrum and antirostrum small; excisural notch shallow; sulcus with deep, rounded pit in posterior . . Eustomias schmidti 72.11 3a. Sulcus narrow, deep, and slit-like; ostium slightly flared . Opostomias micripnus 72.21 3b. Sulcus narrow or shallow and slit-like; ostium not differentiated from cauda . 4 4a. Antirostrum broad and rounded; excisural notch shallow, sulcus shallow . Echiostomia barbatum 72.6 4b. Antirostrum absent or minute and rounded; excisural notch absent or, if excisural notch shallow, ostium deep . 5 5a. Ventral depression absent; ostium elongate, slightly flared and deep . Melanostomias niger 72.18 5b. Ventral area depressed; ostium short, flared and moderately shallow . . . Trigonolampa miriceps 72.25 Echiostoma barbatum, SSF No. 72.6 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Southeast of Algoa Bay and off Cape Town; widespread in tropical/subtropical waters of all oceans. Attains 37 cm. MATERIAL: 5/8 (1 .05-1 .6 mm OD, 1731 = 132 mm SL, 14159 = 243 mm TL), PEM 1731, 14160 (RUSI 28286), 13195, 13372, 14159 (RUSI 28285); Cape west and southeast coasts; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No colliculi visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undif¬ ferentiated, anterior of sulcus slightly flared and deepens at margin. Posteriorly sulcus narrower and straight. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped, absent posteriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus length. Dorsal depression: Absent, but there may be a shallow posterior depression. There may be shallow pits close to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and slightly pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Eustomias lipochirus, SSF No. 72.10 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Collected only southwest of Cape of Good Hope; tropical/subtropical Atlantic; one record from western In¬ dian Ocean. Attains 24 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.1 mm OD, 286 mm TL), PEM 13347; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Circular. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, opening indistinct, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi, pit pre¬ sent. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undiffer¬ entiated, oval shallow and pit-like. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Narrow ridge along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Minute, rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, rounded. Excisu- ra: Narrow, notch absent. Eustomias schmidti, SSF No. 72.11 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Town; occurs widely in all three major oceans. Attains 21 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.8 mm OD, 169 mm TL), PEM 14916 (RUSI 35522); Cape south coast; Id. MEA. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi, pit present. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, anterior sulcus shallower, deep rounded pit in posterior. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed anteriorly, low ridge in posterior to tip. Dorsal depression: Shallow, joined posteriorly to ventral de¬ pression, forming a shallow horse-shoe shape. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Melanostomias niger, SSF No. 72.18 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in South Atlantic between 20° and 50°S; also Pacific, south of about 30°S, not yet reported from Indian Ocean. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (1.05-1.4 mm OD, 12054 = 178 mm SL, 13273 = 287 mm TL), PEM 12054, 12053, 15363 (RUSI 38318), 13273, [15362 (RUSI 38318)]; Cape west coast; Id. MEA. NOTE: Great variation in otolith form suggests that there may be problems with material identified as this species. Otolith shape: Approximately circular, but slightly flattened. Thickness: Medium thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: Slightly raised nucleus with groove to margin (except 13273 which has bulge to margin). Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, entire to slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Moderately deep, flared anteriorly. Cauda: Shallow, oval shaped depression (except 13273). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.4, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Present, except for 13273. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Present, slight ridge towards the posterior. Dorsal depression: From mid-ostium to above the cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Minute and rounded (bulges more in 13273). Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch absent. Opostomias micripnus, SSF No. 72.21 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION : Occurs across the Atlantic, Pacific and probably the Indian Ocean south of c. 33° S. Attains c. 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.5 mm OD, 270 mm TL), PEM 13194; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Slightly raised nucleus, slight depression under ostium. Dorsal margin: 33 Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded, may have a single notch, entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No colliculi visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep and flared. Cauda: Straight and narrow. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, sulcus deep. Crista inferior: Well developed, sulcus deep. Dorsal depression: Absent but area raised and uneven, drops away to margin. Ventral depression: Area raised below sulcus, drops away to margin. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex- cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Trigonolampa miriceps, SSF No. 72.25 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Off the west coast, apparently circumglobal in Southern Ocean south of 30°S; also in North Atlantic. Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.5 mm OD, 154 mm SL), PEM 7965; North Atlantic; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Discoid with antero-ventral bulge. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: More flat¬ tened than dorsal, entire to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and deep. Cauda: Narrow and horizontal, de¬ pressed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Present as a wall-like structure between ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and collum, absent towards posterior. Crista inferior: A broad ridge-like structure along sulcus except in collum area. Dorsal depression: Above caudal tip, around posterior of sulcus and joining ventral depression which covers most of ventral area except for a raised area immediately below sulcus. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Either absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. MALACOSTEI DAE Nelson No. 151 Family characteristics: Based on one species, otoliths small (<2 mm OD), thick, discoid with deep, narrow sulcus. Malacosteus niger, SSF No. 71.4 PLATE 13 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical and subtropical waters of all three major oceans and Atlantic north to subarctic waters. Attains 24 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (0.9-1.3 mm OD, 3451 = c. 100 mm SL, 13141 = 158 mm TL), PEM 3451 (SAM 28704), 3387 (SAM 28703), 13140, 13141, 13139; Cape west coast, Transkei and Natal; lodged in SAM. NOTE: The differences between these otoliths suggest that more than one species may be represented in this material, or that it is very variable. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, usually entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular or entire. Posterior margin: Rounded, often with inden¬ tation, and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, smallest appears to be mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and deep floor of ostium may form a protruding lip. Cauda: Straight and narrow slit. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 3451 no ratio, 1:2.7, 1:3, 1:1.4, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed and irregular. Crista inferior: Well developed and irregular anteriorly, absent posteri¬ orly. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Deep ir¬ regular groove present, no depression. Rostrum: Small and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and angle wide. IDIACANTHIDAE Nelson No. 152 Family characteristics: Otoliths small (<2 mm), oval, archaesul- coid, homomorph with anterior slit or pit. Difficult to distinguish between species, no key provided. Idiacanthus atlanticus , SSF No. 70.1 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Off west (24-37°S) and east (30-41° S) coasts; in 300-500m. Circumglobal between about 26° S and Subtropical Convergence, with northern extensions in eastern boundary cur¬ rents. Attains more than 43 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (0.5-1. 4 mm OD, 1737 = 212 mm SL, 13474 = 450 mm TL), PEM 1737, 1738, 14917 (RUSI 35525), 3485, 13474; Cape west coast, Transkei and eastern Cape; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesul- coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single colliculum with elongate slit anteriorly. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: indistinguishable, sulcus has a deep elongated trough anteriorly (more extended in larger otoliths), with posterior filled with col¬ liculum, tip indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not con¬ stricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression and ventral depression: Continuous around posterior of sulcus. Grooves on dorsal and ventral side of sulcus. Rostrum: Minute, shape of tip varies. Antirostrum: Usually absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Idiacanthus fasciola, SSF No. 70.2 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Off east coast and in Agulhas water pockets in eastern South Atlantic (34-36° S). Tropical/subtropical waters of North Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. Attains more than 27 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (0.7-0.8 mm OD, 172-206 mm TL), 0885H, 0886H, PEM 14920 (RUSI 35520) (only one entire); North Atlan¬ tic (JLBS material), southeastern Cape; Id. RHG, MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly lobed. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Single colliculum with anterior elon¬ gate pit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, sulcus has a deep trough, colliculum fills posterior sulcus, tip indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not con¬ stricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista infe¬ rior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Slit under colliculum. Rostrum: Minute, rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch absent. ORDER AULOPIFORMES CHLOROPHTHALMIDAE Nelson No. 154 Family characteristics: Otolith oval or oblong, sulcus opening ostial. Cauda straight with distinct cristae, otoliths moderately large, grow to at least 4.4 mm. 34 Key la. Otolith oval with its anterior and posterior tips produced and tapered; ostium well defined . . Bathysauropsis gracilis 76.7 lb. Otolith oblong; anterior and posterior margins blunt, not produced; ostium poorly defined . . Chlorophthalmus punctatus 76.9 Bathysauropsis gracilis , SSF No. 76.7 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Point and south of Madagascar; cir- cumglobal in southern oceans. Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.45 mm OD, 225 mm TL), PEM 15355 (RUSI 38216); north-west of St Helena Bay; Id. MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded and emarginate at extremes; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, emarginate at extremes and entire. Posterior margin: Tip narrows and sharply rounded, entire. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Osti¬ um: Flares dorsally, slightly rounded ventrally, dorsal area over¬ hangs ostium. Cauda: Approximately straight and horizontal, walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Large and oval, margin distinctly depressed with rim. Ventral depression: Large, most of ventral area, margin depressed. Rostrum: Large and tapering, sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Short and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shal¬ low, angle wide. Chlorophthalmus punctatus, SSF No. 76.9 PLATE 14 NOTE: The status of this genus is uncertain, it may represent a species complex. We found some variation in otoliths of this species collected from different areas. Until the taxonomy is resolved, we tentatively refer our material to C. punctatus. DISTRIBUTION: Occurs along both coasts of South Africa. C. punctatus unreported elsewhere; but other species in the C. agas- sizii complex are circumglobal in warm seas. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 6/45 (3.9-7.62 mm OD, 110 mm SL - 231 mm TL), PEM 12792, 15027 (RUSI 35556), 12525 (RUSI 34134), 13041 (RUSI 28290), 5040, 5039, [14453 (RUSI 31392), 8 others have RUSI vouchers]; Mozambique, Kenya, Cape south coast and off Kunene River mouth; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculp¬ ture, irregular or lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded, irregular to lobed. Posterior margin: Rounded, slightly irregular or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent Ostium: Poorly defined, flared and slightly deeper than cauda, opens to antero-dorsal comer. Cauda: Straight, angled at c. 45 degrees, well defined by cristae, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:2.2, 1:2.1, 1:2.1, 1:2.1, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent V-shaped step between ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Straight and ridge-like over the cauda only. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under the cauda with slight posterior ventral flexion, poor under ostium. Dorsal de¬ pression: Shallow and elongate above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded, but may be notched. Antirostrum: Minute to absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch ab¬ sent. SCOPELARCHIDAE Nelson No. 155 Family characteristics: Otoliths attain at least 6 mm. Shapes vary considerably, sulcus angled off the horizontal. Raised colliculi of unequal size. Key la. Otolith homed and rectangular; sulcus angled at 45° off horizontal, colliculi small and low . . Benthalbella macropinna 77.2 lb. Otolith bullet shaped; sulcus angled at 10° off horizontal; colliculi raised . Scopelarchus analis 77.6 Benthalbella macropinna, SSF No. 77.2 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Off southwest Cape coast; circumpolar in subantarctic and Antarctic waters. Attains 23 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.9mmOD, 267 mm TL), PEM 134 12; off Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Rectangular, ventral comers are extended, may be hom-like. Thickness: Thin. Form: -Mesial almost flat, -Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rat; sculpture, Slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Generally flattened with extended ventral comers. Pos¬ terior margin: Approximately flat and undulating. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Para-ostial, opening onto anterior wall, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum smaller and lower than posterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, con¬ taining circular colliculum with canal to anterior wall, sulcus angled dorsally at 45°. Cauda: Elongate, and larger than ostium filled with large, irregularly-surfaced colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Collum: Wall-like, lower than posterior colliculum. Crista supe¬ rior: Ridge-like over central l/3rd of sulcus only. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, except extreme anterior. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Prominent and pointed or finger-like. Antirostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Excisura: Minute, notch very wide, meets excisura and includes most of anterior margin. Scopelarchus analis, SSF No. 77.6 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Common off southern Africa; tropical/sub¬ tropical waters of all oceans. Attains 126 mm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.45 mm OD, 56 mm SL), 0257H; IOEM; Id. AK. Otolith shape: Oval to bullet-shaped with flattened anterior mar¬ gin. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Almost flat and slighdy sinuate. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly sinuate. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archae- sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, circular colliculi, anterior larger than posterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated in poorly defined sulcus, angled at c. 15 degrees. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like between colliculi only. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Slight depression below crista. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent NOTOSUDIDAE Nelson No. 156 Family characteristics: Otoliths oblong with pointed tip, blunt posteriorly, up to c. 5mm, sulcus straight, cauda with ridge-like cristae along most of length. 35 Key la. Cauda with key-hole depression; antirostrum small; excisura notched . Scopelosaurus meadi 78.6 lb. Cauda without key- hole depression; antirostrum minute or absent; excisura without notch . . Scopelosaurus ahlstromi 78.3 Scopelosaurus ahlstromi, SSF No. 78.3 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: Fromc. 32° toe. 45° S, in all three oceans; small adolescents in Indian Ocean northward to c. 12°S. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (3.14.9 mm OD, 1 10-201 mmTL), PEM 13249, 15360 (RUSI 38220), 13334, 15359 (RUSI 38220); Cape west coast; Id. MEA. Otolith shape: Oblong, pointed anteriorly. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Irregular with flattened, nodular appearance with smooth perimeter. Dorsal margin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat or slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Straight and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly deeper than cauda, not flared. Cauda: Straight, horizontal, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.6, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent but slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, absent over posterior cauda and tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and broad along length of sulcus, except posterior cauda and tip. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and oblong. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate and narrows to a point. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Scopelosaurus meadi, SSF No. 78.6 PLATE 14 DISTRIBUTION: From c. 19° to c. 43°S; in all three oceans. Attains 20(?) cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.5, 4.9 mm OD, 204, 225 mmTL), PEM 13333, 13332; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Slight low-nodular patterning, with smooth perimeter. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally and is deeper than cauda. Cauda: Straight, horizontal with posterior keyhole¬ shaped depression. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, with slight V-shaped step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped over ostium, ridge-like above cauda only, absent over poste¬ rior cauda and tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda, absent under pit and at tip. Dorsal depression: Shallow and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, narrowing to a point. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and acute, or absent. SYNODONTIDAE Nelson No. 157 Family characteristics: Otoliths moderate in size (to c. 12 mm). Shape varies, ostial, heterosulcoid and heteromorph with very low colliculi. Cauda variable, straight, sinuate and/or ventrally flexed. Key la. Cauda straight, narrow and horizontal . 2 lb. Cauda flexed or sinuate and relatively wide . 4 2a. Ostium short, flared dorsally widely; rostrum short and broad . Bathysaurus fer ox 7 9.1 2b. Ostium elongate, not widely flared; rostrum elongate . . 3 3a. Dorsal area depressed and becomes reduced and emarginate with growth; rostrum produced . . Saurida gracilis 79.2 3b. Dorsal area not distinctly depressed and reduced, not strongly emarginate; rostrum not elongate . . Saurida undosquamis 79.3 4a. Otolith elliptic; ventral margin rounded or well rounded; rostrum tapered; cauda slightly dorsally angled and sinuate; postcaudal trough present . . Trachinocephalus myops 79.10 4b. Otoliths ovate, stubby to oblong; ventral margin flattened; rostrum not tapered; cauda distinctly flexed; post caudal trough absent . 5 5a. Rostrum short; ostium short and deep; cauda sinuous and elongate . Sy nodus indicus 79.7 5b. Rostrum moderate; ostium moderate, shallower; cauda shorter . Synodus variegatus 79.9 Bathysaurus ferox, SSF No. 79.1 PLATE 15 DISTRIBUTION: Off the Cape, both sides of the Atlantic Ocean and off New Zealand. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 6/9 (4.35-11.1 mm OD, 287-615 mm TL), PEM 15350 (RUSI 38047), 12144, 13763, 13479, 13762, 13761; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oblong - may be oval in small otoliths, elongating with growth. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial con¬ vex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: May be a pit or raised in nucleus region. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming emarginate (c. 10 mm OD); sculpture, lobed to irregular with growth. Ventral margin: Rounded, sculpture entire to crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded to sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very low indented anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, low colliculum. Cauda: Horizontal and straight, narrow with V-shaped cross sec¬ tion and opens dorsally at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:2.3, 1:1.8, 1:2.3, 1:2.0, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent, no distinct step. Crista superior: Moderately well developed over ostium, well developed along cauda (may become ridge-like), absent above ostium. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Present, may be very deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Saurida gracilis, SSF No. 79.2 PLATE 15 DISTRIBUTION: A widely-distributed Indo-West Pacific species extending south to Algoa Bay. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 5/6 (3.4-11.9 mm OD, 111-359 mm TL), PEM 15447 (RUSI 40565), 8330, 4846, 5072, 5073; Kenya to East London and Madagascar (or Bazaruto); Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial con¬ vex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flattened or emarginate, posterior develops a block-like lobe (>6 mm OD); sculpture, sinuate or irregular. Ventral margin: Gently rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Flattened to rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally, slightly deeper than cauda. Cauda: Straight and horizontal, gently flared dorsally, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, LI. 3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along anterior 2/3rds of sulcus only, absent at posterior and tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along length of sulcus, absent at extreme 36 anterior and posterior. Dorsal depression: Small and elongate above crista, may be a dorsal ridge before area drops to margin. Posteriorly, dorsal area is raised to a smooth plateau. Ventral depression: Absent, steep drop to margin. Rostrum: Large, ta¬ pering and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and wide. Saurida undosquamis, SSF No. 79.3 PLATE 15 DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout Indo-West Pacific (immi¬ grant to Mediterranean); extends west to Knysna. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 6/30 (5.7-11 mm OD, 159-341 mm TL), PEM 12456, 12455, 12927, 12827, 12919, 12826 (RUSI 28288), [15013 (RUSI 35583)]; Mozambique and southeastern coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculp¬ ture, irregular to lobed. Ventral margin: Gently rounded, anteri¬ orly slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, slight dorsal flare, ventral margin horizontal. Cauda: Straight and horizontal, slightly flared poste¬ riorly, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.0, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like along 2/3rds of cauda, absent at posterior and tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along length of sulcus except at extremities. Dorsal depression: Elongate, close to mar¬ gin; posteriorly, dorsal area is raised to smooth plateau. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, tapering and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Minute or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Synodus indie us, SSF No. 79.7 PLATE 15 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout Indian Ocean; common in Natal, occasional specimens reach Mossel Bay. Attains 33 cm. MATERIAL: 6/12 (1. 6-3.7 mm OD, 102-310 mm TL), PEM 4404 (RUSI 16062), 7818 (RUSI 28287), 5000, 7946, 8758, 1974, [0798H (RUSI 15969)]; Natal and eastern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Ovate to trapezoid. Thickness: Relatively thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Flattened and slightly ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Flattened with indentation at midpoint and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep, short, may penetrate to lateral surface in large otoliths. Cauda: Sinuate with ventral flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:2.4, 1:1.5, 1:2.0, 1:1.6, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over anterior half of sulcus, very poorly developed to tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, above dorsal crista. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, trough near margin may be present. Rostrum: Moderate and broad, rounded to sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large or small, sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shahow or deep, angle varies. Synodus variegatus , SSF No. 79.9 PLATE 15 DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout Indo-West Pacific; ex¬ tends south to Durban. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1.2-2.2 mm OD, 68-186 mm TL), PEM 13445, 1036H, 1005H, 1032H; Eilat (JLBSII otoliths), locality unknown 13445; Id. TH, MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Flat¬ tened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Flattened and slightly irregular to entire in small otoliths. Posterior margin: Flat and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, floor uneven. Cauda: Hares posteriorly, flexed ventrally. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over anterior half of sulcus, poor over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, along cauda may be ridge-like. Dorsal depression: Deep to very deep above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral trough near margin in some otoliths. Rostrum: Large, tapering and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded to irregu¬ lar. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and angle wide. Trachinocephalus myops, SSF No. 79.10 PLATE 16 DISTRIBUTION : Pan tropical; along the east coast to Knysna, and in the Atlantic south to Luderitz, Namibia. Attains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (6.8-9.6 mm OD, 170-210 mm TL), PEM 2582, 0612, 1386H, 5967, [15567 (RUSI 42661)]; Durban and Knysna; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Otolith thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, irregular or dentate. Ventral margin: Well rounded and sinuate to dentate, or entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, extremely low anterior and posterior col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared ventrally, deep. Cauda: Closer to dorsal margin, sinuate and flexed ventrally, flared posteriorly. Post-caudal trough to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Sharply dorso-ventrally constricted to narrow neck. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.6, 1:1.2, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like over ostium and anterior cauda, reduced to very poorly devel¬ oped posteriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow and elongate above ostio- caudal junction. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or irregular. Ex¬ cisura: Small, notch shallow, angle acute. PARALEPIDIDAE Nelson No. 159 Family characteristics: Sulcus poorly defined, heterosulcoid, het¬ eromorph with raised colliculi and rostrum large. Rectangular or triangular otoliths and moderately small (8.5 mm OD). Ventral margin: Well rounded, slightly crenate or entire. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal but caudal opening indistinct, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, two similar shaped colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Present, low and irregular. Ostium: Oval, filled with colliculum, depressed in centre. Cauda: Elongate, filled with colliculum, depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed in centre. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Approximately semicircular. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Caelorinchus simorhynchus, Iwamoto & Anderson 1994 (previously known as C. fasciatus) SSF No. 93.8 PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Abundant off south coast to 550 m. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 7/75 (7.2-14.4 mm OD, 206-416 mm TL, 11394 = 69 mm PAL), PEM 11529, 8120 (RUSI 34163), 11392, 8119 (RUSI 34163), 11386, 11387,11394, [8114-8121 (RUSI 34163)]; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, TI, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Raised in small (c. 7 mm OD), lower in larger otoliths; sculpture, crenate and lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate in small, irregular or entire in large otoliths. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular to crenate. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Mesial. In unprepared or digested otoliths, may appear ostio-caudal as walls not distinct, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph. Pseudocolliculum: Usually elongate and ridge-like, may be unclear. Ostium: Oval, short with colliculum, depressed in middle. Cauda: Elongate, horizontal, colliculum almost fills cauda, depressed in middle (colliculi may appear fused). Ostio- caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3, 1:1.5, 1:2.0, 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:2. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poor over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. 60 Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow over centre. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex- cisura: Absent. Caelorinchus denticulatus, SSF No. 93.7 PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Natal coast to Tanzania. Attains 27 cm. MATERIAL: 4/16 (6.0-12.86 mm OD, 141-220 mm TL), PEM 11359 (RUSI 28302), 11358, 12869 (RUSI 28303), 12871, [14963-14965 (RUSI 35563)]; Mozambique and Cape east coast; Id. MJS, PCH, TI, MEA. Otolith shape: Irregularly elliptic. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded to domed; sculpture, crenate in smaller otoliths (c. 6 mm OD) becoming lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate, entire in mid-area. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, although juveniles have poorly defined openings and may appear mesial, homosulcoid (ostium smaller in size, similar shaped). Colliculum: Homomorph (similar in shape, different in size). Pseudocolliculum: Small and indistinct. Ostium: Short, with colliculum indented in centre. Cauda: Long, straight and horizontal, filled with colliculum, poorly defined wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.4, 1:2.5, 1:1.8, 1:2.0. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed to well de¬ veloped in larger otoliths, along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: S- shaped, shallow, very shallow in juveniles. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to very small. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent to very shallow, angle wide. Caelorinchus kaiyomaru Arai & Iwamoto, 1979, SSF No. 93.- PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in the southern hemisphere, off New Zealand, eastern Pacific, southwestern Atlantic (Cohen et al. 1990). Attains 430 mm TL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.6 mm OD, 321 mm TL), PEM 14900 (RUSI 35585); off Cape Recife, 34°28.1’S 25°57.9’E; Id. TL Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to lobed, may be notched at midpoint. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate dorsally. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, approximately homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Approximately oval, colliculi slightly depressed in centre. Cauda: Elongate, colliculum oval and slightly depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Alow ridge from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed at ex¬ tremes. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and large covering most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove near margin. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Caelorinchus karrerae Trunov, 1984, SSF No. 93.- PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in southern hemisphere, from the Rio Grande Ridge, mid- Atlantic, southeast Atlantic, in the Indian Ocean from Walters Shoal and Ninety-East Ridge, Mascarene Ridge (Cohen et al. 1990, T.I. pers. comm. 1992). Attains at least 350 mm TL. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.9-7 .5 mm OD; 239-246 mm TL), PEM 14468 (RUSI 31391), 14691, 14497 (RUSI 31395); Atlantic coast of southern Africa; Id. IT, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded anteriorly, tapered posteriorly; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ap¬ proximately homomorph, anterior colliculum rounded and inden¬ ted, posterior elongate and slightly depressed. Pseudocolliculum: Present in neck but low. Ostium: Elongate, approximately hori¬ zontal. Cauda: Elongate approximately horizontal, colliculum with irregular depressions. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly constricted ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along the length of sulcus, may be poor at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow and broad. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Minute or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Caelorinchus quadricristatus (Alcock, 1891) SSF No. 93.- PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Off Kenya, Northern Indian Ocean and An¬ daman Sea (H pers. comm. 1992). Attains at least 46 cm TL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (16.96, 21.18 mm OD, 5074 = 460 mm TL, 1579H = 260 mm PAL), PEM 5074, 1579H; Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat but irregular. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate and lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Shar¬ ply rounded, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Caudal, homo¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi, appear fused. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, at anterior wall a slight ridge angles up to meet margin, anterior wall not well defined. Large colliculum, depressed in middle, joins the posterior colliculum. Cauda: Elongate, opens dorsally, colliculum more elongate than anterior, depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed with broad, low surface along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Present, just below dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove along margin. Rostrum: Absent, pseudo-rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent, pseudo-antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent, pseudo-excisura: Narrow, notch ab¬ sent. Caelorinchus trunovi Iwamoto & Anderson, 1994 (previously C. flabellispinis) SSF No. 93.9 PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean, off Mozambique. Attains at least 47.5cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (16.4 mm OD, 428 mm TL), PEM 13042; Mozambique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to banana shaped. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral moderately convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, irregular to crenate at pos¬ terior end. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal but walls poorly defined, homo¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, with elongate colliculum, slightly depressed in middle, not joined to posterior colliculum. Colliculi separated by shallow pit at neck. Cauda: Elongate, with elongate colliculum, depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, but pit at neck. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, moderately well developed in centre. Crista inferior: Poorly 61 developed along sulcus but absent at extremes. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Narrow, near margin, area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, groove shallow at margin, distinct posteriorly. Rostrum: Sharply rounded and blunt. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Coryphaenoides striaturus, SSF No. 93.12 PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Taken only off the Cape in 823-1738 m. At¬ tains >60 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (5.8-13.18 mm OD, 230-560 mm TL), PEM 14465 (RUSI 31384), 14466 (RUSI 31417), 14463 (RUSI 31427), 15369; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA, TI. Otolith shape: Roughly oval. Thickness: Moderately thin (c. 8 mm OD) to moderately thick (c. 13 mm OD). Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: In large otoliths (c. 13 mm OD) there is a distinct, broad vertical groove. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming flattened with growth; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire becoming crenate (c. 13 mm OD). Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial or mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi, one may be pointed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent, may be nodules present. Ostium: Angled at 45°, walls and colliculum poorly defined, groove to margin in small otoliths (<9 mm OD), becoming horizontal and approximately oval. Cauda: Approximately hori¬ zontal, oval, larger than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, absent over cauda; in large otoliths, poor over ostium with low ridge over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed at neck, poor to absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent in small otoliths, becomes large over most of reduced area. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, groove near margin in large otoliths. Rostrum: Rounded and broad. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide or acute. Coryphaenoides subserrulatus , SSF No. 93.13 PLATE 30 DISTRIBUTION: Two specimens from Agulhas Bank (980 m), the first record of this species outside New Zealand waters. Attains at least 37 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.3 mm OD, 352 mm TL, 85 mm PAL), PEM 14510 (RUSI 31423); Cape southwest coast; Id. TI. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly sinuate. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Caudal, homo¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Contains rugose anterior colliculum, with ridge at anterior tip. Cauda: Cup-like, moder¬ ately deep with swirl-patterned colliculum. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally, mainly ventrally, constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent under ostium, well developed to ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Almost entire dorsal area flattened and de¬ pressed. Ventral depression: Absent, broad, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Absent, pseudo-rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent, pseudo-antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Absent, pseudo-excisura: Moderate, notch shallow and angle wide. Gadomus capensis, SSF No. 93.14 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Table Bay to Mozambique. Attains 46 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (6.3-8.6 mm OD, 322420 mm TL, 88-125 mm PAL), PEM 13765, 13770, 13769; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slighdy rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Caudal, becoming ostio-caudal in larger otoliths (c. 8 mm OD), homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, two similar, raised colliculi, dumbbell-like. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Present, well developed almost joining both colliculi. Ostium: Approximately circular to oval, walls poorly defined, colliculum low and depressed in centre. Cauda: More elongate with oval colliculum low and depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.4, 1:1.6, 1:2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent in juveniles (c. 6 mm OD), well developed in large otoliths, especially over cauda. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, elsewhere poorly developed in small otoliths, well developed in larger individuals. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flat. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, broad groove joins ostium in large otoliths. Rostrum: Absent in small, present in large otoliths: blunt and short, pseudo-ros¬ trum: Blunt and broad. Antirostrum: Absent but present in large otoliths: short and rounded, pseudo-antirostrum: Very blunt or absent. Excisura: If present, narrow and notch shallow, angle wide, pseudo-excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Kuronezumia leonis (previously Nezumia), SSF No. 93.21 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Rare off Cape Point; Namibia; also known from southwestern Atlantic. Attains c. 39 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (7.9, 9.1 mmOD, 14898 = 354 mmTL, 331, 389 mm SL), PEM 14898 (RUSI 35608), 14899 (RUSI 35608); off Cape Recife, Cape south coast; Id. TI, MEA, MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or rounded and lobed or entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homo¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar shaped colliculi, with raised margins. Pseudocolliculum: Present between collicu¬ li. Ostium: Approximately oval, shallow with oval colliculum. Cauda: Shallow and elongate, slightly dorsally angled with slightly elongate colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge over neck, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and large, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove near ventral margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded. Anti- rostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Lucigadus ori (previously Ventrifossa), SSF No. 93.32 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Off Agulhas Bank, Durban and East London. Also probably from Somalia, Uruguay and southern Brazil. At¬ tains at least 20 cm. MATERIAL: 5/36 (5. 1-6.6 mm OD, 174-217 mm TL, 28-34 mm PAL), PEM 14132, 14129 (RUSI 28300), 8122 (RUSI 40679), 14121 (RUSI 28301), 14120; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA, TI. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal and rounded. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly lobed. 62 Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or lobed. Posterior mar¬ gin: Shaiply rounded, flattened ventral section, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, may appear ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colli- culum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oblong, poorly defined walls, filled by uneven colliculum not distinctly depressed. Cauda: Oblong, colliculum with pointed posterior edge. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent at extremes, well de¬ veloped to low ridge in mid-section. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, but more raised near centre. Dorsal depression: Shal¬ low and broad over most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove may be present near margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Caelorinchus matamua, SSF No. 93.16 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Apparently abundant off South Africa, also found off New Zealand and southern Australia. Attains c. 65 cm. MATERIAL: 4/32 (10.3-14.4 mm OD, 362-550 mm TL), PEM 12349, 13817 (RUSI 28299), 13816 (RUSI 28298), 12345; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA, IT. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, lobed and indented. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Caudal (small) or ostio-caudal with growth (c. 1 1 mm OD), homosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Poorly developed walls, anterior colliculum approximately circular and depressed in centre. Cauda: More elongate, poorly developed walls, colliculum approximately flat. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:1.9, 1:1.5, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed, may be well developed in middle of otolith. Crista inferior: Well developed in mid-section, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area slopes to mar¬ gin. Ventral depression: May be a shallow ventral depression. Rostrum: Rounded if present, pseudo-rostrum: Rounded. Anti- rostrum: Absent, pseudo-antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Usu¬ ally absent, narrow if present. Malacocephalus laevis, SSF No. 93.17 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Atlantic and Indian Oceans and possibly in Pacific. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 6/70 (7.7-16.3 mm OD, 171-650 mm TL), PEM 12714 (RUSI 28509), 12716 (RUSI 28307), 12628 (RUSI 28308), 14133, 14134, 14135, [14966, 14967 (both RUSI 35576)]; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA, TI. Otolith shape: Approximately oval, becoming more oblong with growth (c. 1 1 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Blunt and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-cau¬ dal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent, but slight papilla may be present. Ostium: Continuous with cauda, distinct anterior and posterior colliculi usually distant from margins, they are irregular and in¬ dented. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed to well developed in midsection. Crista inferior: Poorly developed to absent at ex¬ tremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flat. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, groove may occur near antero-ventral margin. Rostrum: Large and slightly pointed. Antirostrum: Generally absent; if present, short and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Mesobius antipodum, SSF No. 93.18 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Off south coast; New Zealand, eastern Indian Ocean and Madagascar plateau, also southern Australia. Attains 66 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.5 mm OD, 460 mm TL), PEM 13318; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Baseball mit-like. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded with single oblong lobe; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate to cocks- combed. Posterior margin: Flattened and entire. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Poorly defir ed bowl with oval, centrally depressed colliculum. Cauda: Poorly defined bowl with more angular, irregular and flat colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped to a rounded ridge along sulcus. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Elongate fold above crista, area undulate. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral area grooved to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Nezumia brevibarbata, SSF No. 93.19 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Known only off the Cape. Attains c. 26 cm. MATERIAL: 2/4 (5.3, 7.1 mm OD, 183, 260 mm TL, 37, 69mm PAL), PEM 14517 (RUSI 31444), 14464 (RUSI 31455), [15353 (RUSI 38215)]; Cape west coast; Id. MEA, IT. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular becoming lobed in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, may be lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial in small, becoming ostio-cau¬ dal in larger otoliths, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Has raised oval colliculum. Cauda: Has raised oval colliculum. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:2.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed in juveniles, ridge-like along entire sulcus in larger otoliths. Crista inferior: Poorly to well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent in small, dorsal area depressed to margin in large otoliths. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Nezumia micronychodon, SSF No. 93.22 PLATE 31 DISTRIBUTION: Mauritania to Namibia. Attains c. 35 cm. MATERIAL: 4/37 (8.0-8.7 mm OD, c. 74-293 mm TL, 58-65 mm PAL), PEM 14467 (RUSI 31453), 14516 (RUSI 31452), 14515 (RUSI 31419), 14514 (RUSI 31437); Namibia; Id. MJS, MEA, U. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire to slightly lobed. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-caudal (appears ostio- caudal if not coated), homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two similar colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Variable, a ridge or series of nodules. Ostium: Walls poorly defined, with an oval, rugose, indented colliculum. Cauda: More elongate, may be closed, has poorly defined walls; oval, rugose and indented colli¬ culum, pointed anteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:2.2, 1:1.6, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in centre, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly 63 developed under colliculi, absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flattened and lower than crista. Ventral depression: Absent, poorly developed ventral groove near margin. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Nezumia umbrae incta Iwamoto & Anderson, 1994 SSFNo.93.- PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic coast of South Africa and Agulhas Bank. Attains at least 310 mm TL. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.8-7.9 mm OD, 290-310 mm TL), PEM 13803, 13805, 13802; west coast of southern Africa; Id. H, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised, may be slightly emarginate; sculpture, lobed or entire. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded, approximately entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, ta¬ pered, may be slightly notched or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-caudal, approximately homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ap¬ proximately homomorph, colliculi indented irregularly. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate with circular, slightly depressed colliculum in posterior part. Cauda: Elongate, collicu¬ lum oblong, slightly depressed with raised margins, lies in anterior cauda. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, poor at tip. Dorsal depression: shallow and broad, covering most of the area. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Sphagemacrurus pumiliceps, SSF No. 93.27 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Mozambique, Laccadive Sea, Philippines, and East Indies. Attains c. 23 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7.7, 9.76 mm OD, both c. 160 mm TL), PEM 0417, 0182H; off Durban, Natal; Id. PFB, GJBR. NOTE: Speci¬ mens tentatively identified to this species in 1974. Despite pre¬ vious taxonomic confusion, we include it as the otoliths are different from other members of this family, including Lucigadus ori, with which this species was believed to be confused. Speci¬ mens not saved and their identity awaits confirmation with addi¬ tional material. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to pointed. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Distinctly grooved and raised. Dorsal margin: Rattened; sculpture, crenate or slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded, may be oblique anteriorly and posteriorly and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, ho¬ mosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, approximately horizontal and depressed in centres. Pseudocolliculum: Small and low. Ostium: Walls poorly defined anteriorly with elongate colliculum. Cauda: Elongate, walls poorly defined posteriorly, flexed up posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed in centre. Crista inferior: Relatively poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, groove along margin. Rostrum: Short and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Trachonurus villosus, SSF No. 93.28 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Mozambique and Indian Ocean and off South Australia; Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.7 mm OD, 256 mm TL), PEM 13413; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Irregular oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two low colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Rounded, walls ex¬ tremely poorly developed, oval colliculum slightly raised, depressed in centre. Cauda: Elongate, very shallow, colliculum low and slightly depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed. Crista infe¬ rior: Very poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flat. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Trachyrincus scabrus, SSF No. 93.29 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Namibia, west coast of South Africa; eastern North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Attains at least 60 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (14.0-14.9 mm OD, 337432 mm TL), PEM 14764, 14761, 14762, 14763; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval with cockscomb. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded with cockscomb; sculpture, lobed to finger-like projections. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular to entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, one single colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, deep gulley-like sulcus, low colliculum is single with deep central depression, some with a neck. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed. Crista inferior: Mod¬ erately well developed. Dorsal depression:. Oval, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth, but shallow ventral groove near postero-ventral margin. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Cockscomb directly above excisura. Excisura: Narrow, moderate in small otoliths, notch shallow, angle acute. Ventrifossa nasuta, SSF No. 9331 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Durban to Mozambique. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.5, 7.7 mm OD, 138, 171 mm IL, 14749 = 25 mm PAL), PEM 14749, 12714 (RUSI 28509); Cape south and west coasts; Id. Tl, MEA, MJS. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal to tapered oval. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded, slightly irregular or crenate. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Mesial, may appear ostial or ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, with two low, indented colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Present and nodular, may be indistinct. Ostium: Shallow, containing oblong colliculum with depressed centre. Cauda: Elongate, colliculum margins raised, centre slightly indented. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ven¬ tral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed (c. 5 mm OD) becoming well developed along entire sulcus (c. 7.7 mm OD). Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Shallow, most of area depressed. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove shal¬ low and wide near margin. Rostrum: Absent or broad, tapered 64 and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent or narrow, notch very shallow. ORDER OPHIDIIFORMES OPHIDIIDAE Nelson No. 177 Family characteristics: Variations in the otoliths of this family suggest that more than one lineage is represented here. Otoliths large (to c. 19 mm OD), oval, oblong or spindle-shaped. Sulcus heterosulcoid or archaesulcoid, colliculum homomorph or hetero- morph. Key la. Otoliths spindle shaped; sulcus close to dorsal margin and flexed along its length; openings ostio-caudal .... . Brotula multibarbata 96.3 lb. Otoliths oval, obovate or oblong; sulcus more centrally placed, straight or slightly flexed; opening ostial, para-ostial or mesial . 2 2a. Otolith oval or obovate; sulcus heterosulcoid; sulcus opening ostial . 3 2b. Otolith oval or oblong; sulcus archaesulcoid; sulcus opening para-ostial or mesial . 5 3a. Otolith obovate; single, homomorph anterior colliculum raised; caudal tip not closed . . Dicrolene intronigra 96.5 3b. Otolith approximately oblong; two heteromorph colliculi; caudal tip closed . 4 4a. Otolith margins slightly crenate; posterior colliculum only slightly flared ventrally, not completely filling cauda; otolith moderately thick . . Hoplobrotula gnathophus 96.13 4b. Otolith margins crenate; posterior colliculum broader and flared ventrally, filling cauda; otolith moderately thin . Genypterus capensis 96.9 5a. Colliculum slightly rugose, may be divided; sulcus ends close to anterior and posterior margins; crista superior poorly developed . Neobythites analis 96.18 5b. Colliculum smooth, not divided; sulcus ends well short of anterior and posterior margins; crista superior a low, rounded ridge . . Selachophidium guentheri 96.22 Brotula multibarbata , SSF No. 96.3 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed from Red Sea to Port Alfred and east to the central Pacific. Attains c. 100 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (6.14-14.12 mm OD, 130-400 mm TL), PEM 15591, 1402H, PEM 14247 (RUSI 34566), 0774H; Comoro Ids, Sodwana Bay and Durban; Id. PCH, OG. Otolith shape: Spindle-shaped. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Has ridges and depression. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, en¬ tire. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph and low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, filled with low, reticulate patterned colliculum. Sulcus lies close to dorsal margin. Cauda: Elongate, flexed, pointed at both ends and narrower than ostium. Low, reticulate-patterned colliculum fills the cauda. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:2.2, 1:2.4, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Dicrolene intronigra, SSF No. 96.5 PLATE 32 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Namibia. Also northwest Africa and from the western North Atlantic. Attains c. 30 cm. MATERIAL: 7/57 (3.1-7.3 mm OD, 161-295 mm TL), PEM 13660, 13658, 13655, 13654, 14461 (RUSI 31415), 14680, 13656; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming obovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: -Mesial flat to slightly convex, -Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, becoming straighter, entire to indented sculpture. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (the caudal tip has no distinct closing wall), heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Homomorph, only one, poorly defined, anterior colliculum visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Horizontal and elongate, with small, elongate colliculum. Cauda: Flexes ven¬ trally, with poorly defined walls, especially at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.7. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed to absent in caudal region, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Low ridge in mid¬ area, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, groove at dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Low depression in centre. Rostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Antirostrum: Large and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Genypterus capensis, SSF No. 96.9 PLATE 33 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Walvis Bay to Algoa Bay. Attains 160 cm or more. MATERIAL: 7/67 (6.3-18.2 mm OD, 205-1080 mm TL), PEM 12036, 11244, 12607, 9013 (RUSI 37519), 11349, 15157, 13425, [9011-9015 (RUSI 37519)]; Cape west and south coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to lobed. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded, smooth centrally, lobed or crenate at ends. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, two colliculi which are occasionally fused. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, horizontal, larger than cauda with low colliculum. Cauda: Small and oval, slightly flexed ventrally, filled with low colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed or very low ridge. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Very shallow depression. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, shallow notch, angle varies. Hoplobrotula gnathopus, SSF No. 96.13 PLATE 33 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Natal and a few more north¬ ern localities. Attains c. 45 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (11.5, 19.9 mm OD, 246, 521 mm TL), PEM 15009 (RUSI 35571), 14976 (RUSI 35543); eastern Cape (34°12.8’S, 26°39.4’E) and Transkei; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Straight, sloping posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular to crenate. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded, entire to crenate in larger otoliths. Poste¬ rior margin: Pointed and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent Ostium: Elongate, approximately horizontal, filled by large, smooth colliculum. Cauda: Small and oval with smooth 65 colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.3, 1:0.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like in neck, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Moderate and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Neobythites analis, SSF No. 96.18 PLATE 33 DISTRIBUTION: This species is either identical to N. macrops or is endemic to South Africa. From Algoa Bay to Natal coast. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (7.6-10.58 mm OD, 140-188 mm SL), PEM 13032 (RUSI 28319), 15154,” 1571H; Natal and Mozambique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate, becoming entire with growth. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, colliculum entire or indistinctly divided. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus almost horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dor¬ sal depression: Oval and shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Blunt, short and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch absent. Selachophidium guentheri, SSF No. 96.22 PLATE 33 DISTRIBUTION: Common from Angola to Mozambique. At¬ tains c. 30 cm. MATERIAL: 6/44 (4.6-10.4 mm OD, 156-284 mm TL), PEM 12062, 14745, 14013, 14014, 14902 (RUSI 35574), 14059; Cape east and west coasts; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, lobed or emarginate. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, entire or slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, may appear mesial especially in small otoliths, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single undivided colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly de¬ veloped. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, groove may be present near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch absent. CARAPIDAE Nelson No. 178 Family characteristics: Based on the single species available. Otoliths large, up to about 6.2 mm OD. Oblong, tapered posteri¬ orly, homosulcoid with para-ostial opening. Homomorph with single, slightly raised colliculum filling the sulcus. Encheliophis boraborensis, Kaup, 1856 SSF No. 97.- PLATE 33 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs in holothurians; widely distributed in, but not yet recorded from, southern Africa apart from this speci¬ men. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.2 mm OD, 258 mm TL), PEM 15473 (RUSI 40594); Tongaland, northern Natal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong with tapered posterior tip. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Oblique, tapered and pointed. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, ho¬ mosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single slightly raised colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus oblong filled by colliculum with indented margins inside cristae. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: Crescentic covering most of narrow dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. BYTHITIDAE Nelson No. 179 Family characteristics: Otoliths relatively thick and large, up to 15 mm OD. Sulcus archaesulcoid or heterosulcoid with mesial opening. Cristae poorly developed or absent. Colliculi hetero- morph or single homomorph. Key 1 a. Otolith small and oval, tapered at anterior and posterior tips; sulcus heterosulcoid; colliculi heteromorph and low .... Bidenichthys capensis 98.1 lb. Otolith large and rectangular or approximately oval; sulcus archaesulcoid; colliculum homomorph, raised, indented in centre . 2 2a. Otolith approximately oval; colliculum raised, deeply indented in centre; lateral surface with no distinguishing features . Cataetyx laticeps 98.3 2b. Otolith rectangular; colliculum elongate, slightly indented; lateral surface with broad flat ridge . . Cataetyx niki 94.4 Bidenichthys capensis, SSF No. 98.1 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Endemic from East London to the Cape. Pos¬ sibly two species, one unnamed in this area. Attains 9 cm. MATERIAL: 6/14 (1. 7-3.4 mm OD, 30-62 mm TL), PEM 5217, 5600, 5215, 5352, 5013 (RUSI 13420), 5577; Algoa Bay to Tsitsikamma coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Pos¬ terior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, unequal-sized colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, elongate with low colliculum, poorly defined walls. Cauda: Small, with round, slightly raised colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.5, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed, more developed over neck. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, more developed under the neck. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Wide, shallow groove close to mar¬ gin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Cataetyx laticeps, SSF No. 98.3 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Apparently widely distributed in Atlantic Ocean in 1000-2000 m. Attains at least 54 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.8 mm OD, 540 mm TL), PEM 13316; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Flat and entire. Posterior margin: Straight and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, single large, oval colliculum raised at edges and deeply indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undif¬ ferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Col- 66 lum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent, two low horizontal ridges between colliculum and anterior margin. Ventral depression: Slight de¬ pression to posterior of colliculum. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Cataetyx niki, SSF No. 98.4 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from two specimens trawled off the Cape and this specimen from off Namibia. Attains at least 58 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (14.7 mm OD, 583 mm TL), PEM 14589; off Luderitz, Namibia; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Rectangular. Thickness: Thick and brick-like. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral very convex. Lateral surface: Elongate, broad, flat ridge along otolith. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Flat and entire. Posterior margin: Approximately straight, angled and entire. Sulcus acus- ticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single colliculum slightly indented and elongate. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent, low horizontal ridge between colliculum and anterior margin. Ventral depression: Absent, area slightly undulating. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ORDER BATRACHOIDI FORMES BATRACHOIDIDAE Nelson No. 181 Family characteristics: Otoliths approximately elliptic, or oval to rounded triangular. Homosulcoid, opening ostial but may ap¬ pear ostio-caudal or mesial; homomorph with two indistinct colli¬ culi. Pits in ostium and cauda. Up to c. 12 mm OD. Key la. Otoliths oval to rounded triangular; dorsal margin of otolith raised; sulcus ostial but may appear ostio-caudal . Batrichthys apiatus 100.3 lb. Otoliths oval to elliptic; dorsal margin of otolith rounded or slightly rounded; sulcus ostial but may appear mesial . 2 2a. Otolith oval; crista superior forms a narrow and low ridge over collum; dorsal depression relatively shallow . Chatrabus hendersoni 100.5 2b. Otolith oval to elliptic, often pointed posteriorly; crista superior forms a broad ridge over collum; dorsal depression distinct and deep . . Chatrabus melanurus 100.6 Batrichthys apiatus , SSF No. 100.3 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: From Saldanha Bay to the Umtata River, Tran- skei. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.6, 2.8 mm OD, 70, 71 mm TL), PEM 14824, 9981; near Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to rounded triangular. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral con¬ vex. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed, slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two very low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Pit present in posterior part of the ostium, anteriorly it shallows before joining anterior margin. Ventral wall very poorly defined under anterior part of ostium. Cauda: Tear-drop shaped pit fills cauda. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Low wall-like structure. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like over collum, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, very shallow ventral groove close to ventral margin. Ros¬ trum: Short, blunt and rounded. Antirostrum: Very short, rounded or angled. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chatrabus hendersoni , SSF No. 100.5 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Port Alfred to Storms River mouth. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5 mm OD, 122 mm TL), PEM 11329 (RUSI 28295); Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, irregularly lobed. Form: - Mesial con¬ vex, - Lateral approximately flat. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but may appear mesial in uncoated otoliths, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, two very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Has a shallow posterior pit, becoming shallow towards anterior margin, poorly defined ventral wall. Cauda: Has deeper oval, teardrop-shaped pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Slightly raised, uneven. Crista superior: Well developed, uneven ridge over collum, poor at extremes. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped under collum, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and striated. Ventral depression: Absent, a smooth raised area occurs below collum. Rostrum: Blunt and rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chatrabus melanurus , SSF No. 100.6 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Angola, round the coast to Port St Johns and off Cape Frio, Namibia. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 5/10 (4.95-11.6 mm OD, 128-196 mm TL), PEM 5487, 12545 (RUSI 28296), 14400 (RUSI 34145), 14882 (RUSI 35579), 5595; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but may appear mesial in uncoated otoliths, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, two colliculi low or depressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Has distinct oval pit posteri¬ orly, shallows towards margin, dorsal and ventral walls well de¬ fined. Cauda: Distinct pit, similar depth to ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2: 1:1.4, 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Slightly raised and uneven. Crista superior: Well developed, uneven ridge over collum, indistinct over anterior ostium. Crista inferior: Well developed, absent under ostium, poorly developed under cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval, deep and striated. Ventral depression: Absent, may be very shallow groove near ventral margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Poorly defined, moderate width, notch absent. ORDER LOPHIIFORMES LOPHIIDAE Nelson No. 182 Family characteristics: Otoliths approximately oval to oblong, dorsal margin raised or emarginate and lobed, up to c. 7.9 mm OD. 67 Homosulcoid or archaesulcoid, mesial and homomorph colliculi or no raised colliculi. Key la. Sulcus homosulcoid; colliculi homomorph and low . Lophiodes mutilus 101.2 lb. Sulcus archaesulcoid; no raised colliculi . 2 2a. Otolith approximately square; dorsal margin raised but slightly emarginate in centre; ventral corners produced and ventral margin flat. . Lophius vaillanti 101.- 2b. Otolith approximately oval and lobed dorsally; dorsal margin of otolith raised but not emarginate; ventral comers rounded . Lophius vomerinus 101.4 Lophiodes mutilus , SSF No. 101.2 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Natal. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.15, 7.14 mm OD, 160, 245 mm TL), PEM 0434, 0435; off the Bluff, Durban; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong and lobed. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat but irregular, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Margin smooth, centre rugose. Dorsal margin: Raised or emarginate; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Flat¬ tened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, two very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Indistinguishable, similar, oval shape, poorly defined in juveniles. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8 (0434 indis¬ tinct features). Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped, absent at tips. Crista inferior: Low ridge in neck area, absent at tips. Dorsal depression: Flat, semi-circular depression over neck. Ventral depression: Absent, raised hump under the neck. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Ab¬ sent. Lophius vaillanti Regan, 1903, SSF No. 101.- PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic, off Namibia. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.9 mm OD, TL not recorded), PEM 15063; off Namibia at Station No B 16 - P 1 0 1 ; Id. RWL. Otolith shape: Approximately square with rounded top. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat but irregular, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Rugose with smooth margins. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Flattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Straight and slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesul¬ coid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus is an indentation in centre of otolith with no dorsal wall, ventral wall very steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Well developed - may be a low ridge towards centre. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent, area flat and striated. Ventral depression: Absent - but raised hump under sulcus, area uneven. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Lophius vomerinus (L. upsicephalus in SSF) SSF No. 101.4 PLATE 34 DISTRIBUTION: Found off Namibia and South Africa (see Leslie and Grant, 1991 for taxonomy). Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 5/104 (2.2-7.1 mm OD, 96-500 mm TL), PEM 14139 (RUSI 28297), 14141, 1 1715, 1 1717, 11719; Cape west and south coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval and lobed. Thickness: Moderately thick but thinner at dorsal edge. Form: - Mesial flat but uneven, - Lateral flat but uneven. Lateral surface: Smooth margin, centre rugose. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rattened or slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, sulcus is shallow , slight downward flexion at tips, ventral wall steep and high. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Well developed, may be a low ridge. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flat. Ventral depression: Absent, raised hump under sulcus. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Ab¬ sent. ANTENNARIIDAE Nelson No. 183 Family characteristics: Discoid becoming oval, archaesulcoid, sulcus may be angled and opening mesial or ostio-caudal, up to c. 5 mm OD. Either no raised colliculi or single, indistinct colliculum present. Raised hump under mid-sulcus. Key la. Otolith discoid; sulcus horizontal, opening ostio- caudal (in large otoliths) . Histrio histrio 102.9 lb. Otolith oval to oblong; sulcus angled, opening mesial or para-ostial . 2 2a. Otolith oval and broad; dorsal depression indistinct .... . Antennarius hispidus 102.4 2b. Otolith oval to oblong; dorsal depression distinct . . Antennarius striatus 102.7 Antennarius hispidus, SSF No. 102.4 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Knysna. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.8 mm OD, 50 mm TL), PEM 0228; off Tugela mouth; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Irregular oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly flattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial may appear para-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undif¬ ferentiated, sulcus oval in shape, a shallow groove angled at 45°. A very shallow groove lies between the sulcus and antero-dorsal comer, this may not be visible in uncoated otoliths. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed over the sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under the sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, raised hump below sulcus. Rostrum: Ab¬ sent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Antennarius striatus, SSF No. 102.7 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: South east coast of Africa to Algoa Bay, throughout Indo-West Pacific to Hawaiian islands. Also in west¬ ern and eastern Atlantic. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 5/6 (4.05-5.0 mm OD, 1 15-148 mm TL), PEM 0299 (RUSI 4555), 14842, 14840 & 14841 (both RUSI 37089), 14843, [14839 (RUSI 37089)]; ORI and Bushmans River mouth; Id. GJBR, MMS, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rat or slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, may appear para-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undif- 68 ferentiated, an elongate pit, becomes shallower anteriorly, slightly angled. The cristae appear to extend beyond the sulcus towards the margin suggesting a very shallow channel. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: A short low ridge in centre, absent at extremes. Crista inferior: Low and uneven ridge under sulcus, absent at ends, may extend towards anterior margin. Dorsal depression: Shallow, semi-circular depression above sulcus. Ventral depression: Horse-shoe shaped below the raised hump under sulcus. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Histrio histrio , SSF No. 102.9 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: In tropical to temperate waters of all oceans but apparently absent in the Pacific east of Guam. Attains 19 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (1.1, 2.2 mm OD, 9654 = 200 mm TL, 0792 not recorded), PEM 0792, 9654, [15493 (RUSI 40552)]; Swartkops estuary and Port Alfred; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin Round; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Round and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and may be indented or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, mesial in small otoliths, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph - single, low, irregular colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Open to both ends in large otoliths (2.2 mm OD), with low colliculum, poorly differentiated walls. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Shallow depression to dorsal ridge near margin. Ventral depression: Absent. A plateau occurs below sulcus with a semi-circular groove below this (only apparent in large otoliths). Rostrum: Small and rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide (previous three features absent when opening is mesial). CHAUNACIDAE Nelson No. 185 Family characteristics: Archaesulcoid, mesial, no raised colliculi, up to c. 10 mm OD. Only a single species available. Similar to the previous family. Chaunax pictus, SSF No. 103.2 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic and between Knysna and Natal. At¬ tains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 7/19 (2.0-9.6 mm OD, 49-260 mm TL), PEM 14422 (RUSI 28306), 11301, 12956, 12837, 12972, 12955, 12954 (RUSI 34164), [12704 (RUSI 28510), 12838 (RUSI 28513), 14973 (RUSI 35516)]; Mozambique and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval and lobed. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial but indistinct closure, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, although anterior part is shallower than the rest of the pit-like sulcus with steep ventral wall. A fold from the antero-dorsal wall may meet the sulcus. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over the sulcus pit, absent else¬ where. Crista inferior: Well developed to low ridge under pit. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. OGCOCEPHALI DAE Nelson No. 186 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval, up to c. 7.8 mm OD; archaesulcoid, sulcus depressed, opening mesial; may be homo¬ morph, low colliculum, cristae poorly developed. May be low hump under sulcus. Key la. Dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat, serrate or lobed; sulcus angled and curved . . Halieutaea fitzsimonsi 104.2 lb. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded, entire, slightly sinuate or lobed; sulcus with horizontal pit . 2 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded sinuate or lobed; sulcus pit irregular .... Malthopsis luteus 104.6 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded almost entire to slightly irregular; sulcus pit horizontal, elongate and oval . Malthopsis tiarella 104.8 Halieutaea fitzsimonsi, SSF No. 104.2 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Plettenberg Bay to Tugela River, Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 5/17 (2.65-7.8 mm OD, 48-180 mm TL), PEM 4641, 12840, 12844, 12849, 12969 (RUSI 28309), [9283, 9284 (both RUSI 37444)]; Mozambique and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval and lobed. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex ventrally, concave dorsally. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, serrate or lobed. Ventral margin: Flattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and entire. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Sulcus is shallow, poorly defined and angled. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior of sulcus. Crista infe¬ rior: Low ridge anteriorly, poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent, area may be grooved from margin lobes. Ventral depression: Absent, bulge under sulcus, may be a groove near the margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Absent. Malthopsis luteus, SSF No. 104.6 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Indian Ocean and Japan, recently taken off Kenya. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.7 mm OD, 92 mm TL), PEM 12965; Mozam¬ bique; Id. MJS, lodged in JLBSII. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex with depression near centre. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, sinuate or slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Blunt and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, low colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated (shallow pit may occur anterior to sulcus). Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly de¬ veloped. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area flat and striated. Ventral depression: Absent, bulge under sulcus. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Absent. Malthopsis tiarella, SSF No. 104.8 PLATE 35 DISTRIBUTION: Natal and Japan. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.9, 4.0 mm OD, 65, 196 mm TL), PEM 13068 (RUSI 28477), 13024 (RUSI 28477); Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slighdy convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, entire to slighdy irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, may be low colliculum. Pseudocolli- 69 culum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated - sulcus is oval pit-like, may have shallow pit anterior to sulcus. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Well developed, may continue anterior to sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, area with oval striations across it. Ventral depression: Shallow de¬ pression near margin at 45 degrees to sulcus in large otoliths. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. CERATIIDAE Nelson No. 188 Family characteristics: Otoliths small (to c. 3.25 mm OD) ellip¬ tic, archaesulcoid, opening mesial or ostial, homomorph with single, fused, raised colliculum with a slit. Key la. Single homomorph colliculum, with shallow posterior slit; cristae superior absent; sulcus opening mesial . Cryptopsaras couesii 105.3 lb. Single homomorph colliculum with deep slit along its length; crista superior present; sulcus opening ostial . Ceratias ? tentaculatus 105.2 Ceratias ? tentaculatus , SSF No. 105.2 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Known from one specimen off Delagoa Bay, one off southern Natal and a third off Saldanha Bay; throughout southern oceans. Attains 88 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.25 mm OD, 310 mm TL), PEM 15354 (RUSI 38217); Cape west coast, north-west of St Helena Bay; Id. MEA - tentative as esca damaged in trawl. Otolith shape: Blunt elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum with slit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated with raised colliculum, sulcus deep but poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, poor at extre¬ mes. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent, area irregular, depressions behind sulcus. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Cryptosaras couesii, SSF No. 105.3 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Known from off Cape of Good Hope, as well as from all major oceans. Attains 44 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.9 mm OD, 65 mm TL), PEM 13175 (SAM 31588); Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly flattened, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and en¬ tire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, single colliculum with an elongate, posterior pit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus with colliculum, narrower anteriorly. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: A shallow depression above sulcus. Ventral depression: Continuous with the dorsal depression, below sulcus. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. HIMANTOLOPHIDAE Nelson No. 196 Family characteristics: Otoliths small, up to c. 3 mmOD. Otolith shape approximately oval, archaesulcoid with opening mesial but may appear pseudo-ostial. Homomorph, single raised colliculum with central slit, cristae absent. Description based on single spe¬ cies available, no key provided. Himantolophus groenlandicus, SSF No. 108.1 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Specimens cast ashore on South African coasts but also found in all major oceans. Attains at least 60 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.95, 2.7 mm OD, 13142 = 234 mm TL), PEM 12130, 13142 (SAM 31615); Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Approximately oval and may be notched. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded or sharply rounded, notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, may appear pseudo-ostial, archaesul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single raised colliculum with slit. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferenti¬ ated, sulcus has colliculum with slit. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ORDER GOB I ESOC I FORMES GOBIESOCIDAE Nelson No. 198 Family characteristics: Based on the two species available, otoliths small (to c. 1 .6 mm OD), otolith characteristics extremely varied. Ostial openings either heterosulcoid or homosulcoid, either heteromorph or no raised colliculi. Cristae poor to absent, rostrum and antirostrum small to large. These marked differences suggest this family may be polyphyletic and in need of revision. Key la. Otolith square with rounded comers; sulcus homosulcoid with no raised colliculi . . Apletodon pellegrini 110.1 lb. Otolith ovate; sulcus heterosulcoid, colliculi heteromorph . Chorisochismus dentex 110.2 Apletodon pellegrini, SSF No. 110.1 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Ranges from Senegal, west Africa, to Port Alfred. Attains 50 mm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.5 mm OD, 28 mm TL), PEM 6066 (RUSI 17130); Plettenberg Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Square with rounded comers. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small and oval. Cauda: Oval and shallow. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constric¬ tions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Low and indistinct. Crista superior: Very poorly developed. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area smooth. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth. Rostrum: Minute, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Absent or minute, broad and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch absent. Chorisochismus dentex, SSF No. 110.2 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Port Nolloth to northern Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/65 (1.3-1.6 mm OD, 123-235 mm TL), PEM 10377, 10477, 10429, 10474; Schoenmakerskop, near Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. 70 Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial very concave, cup-shape, - Lateral very convex. Lateral surface: A lump at base of excisural notch. Dorsal margin: Domed; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Pos¬ terior margin: Indentate and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, not closed at caudal end, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large ostium containing irregular colliculum which is indented and pitted in posterior part. Cauda: Contains irregular colliculum with slit through it. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent in ostial region, crest-like, uneven and low under cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Absent, area grooved and uneven. Entire central part of otolith depresses from margins, sulcus lies in the middle of the bowl. Ventral depression: Absent, area uneven. Rostrum: Large, sharply rounded and bowl-like. Antirostrum: Large and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. ORDER CYPRINODONTI FORMES EXOCOETIDAE Nelson No. 200 Family characteristics: Otolith shape oval to oblong, to at least 11 mm OD. Sulcus heterosulcoid with narrow ostial opening, colliculum homomorph, usually crystalline and raised with arrow¬ head ostium flared on dorsal and ventral margins. Caudal tip either flexed or straight and rounded. Dorsal and ventral areas reduced, sulcus usually covers large proportion of surface. Key la. Otolith oval; margins crenate; sulcus poorly defined and indistinct; ostium only slightly flared . 2 lb. Otolith oval or rounded; margins irregular, not crenate; sulcus distinct; ostium flared dorsally and ventrally . 3 2a. Cauda elongate and poorly defined, almost reaches posterior margin, tip slightly flexed; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith steeply inclined and rough . Parexocoetus mento 116.10 2b. Cauda oval and indented, ending well short of posterior margin, tip not flexed; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith not steeply inclined but dentate and crenate . Cypselurus oligolepis 116.- 3a. Otolith oval; ostium short, arrow-head shaped; cauda slightly sinuous, tip strongly flexed with pit in tip at flexion . Exocoetus volitans 116.6 3b. Otoliths oblong and tapered anteriorly; ostium elongate and arrow-head shaped; cauda straight, tip not flexed . 4 4a. Sulcus very deep; colliculum raised, separated from walls of sulcus with bristle-like crystals . . Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus altipennis 1 1 6.4 4b. Sulcus not very deep; colliculum not distinctly separate from walls of sulcus, with crystalline structure but not bristle-like . 5 5a. Crista superior and inferior of ostium with wrinkles; caudal tip flared and rounded; dorsal and ventral areas smooth . Hirundichthys rondeletii 116.7 5b. Crista superior and inferior not wrinkled; caudal tip rounded, not flared; anterior part of dorsal and anterior ventral areas reduced and striated . Cheilopogon cyanopterus 116.1 Cheilopogon cyanopterus , SSF No. 116.1 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical and subtropical waters of Atlantic, Indian and western Pacific oceans. Recorded locally from Port Alfred and Natal. Attains 34 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (c. 10.4, 10.6 mm OD, 270, 275 mm SL) PEM 15339, 14275; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and very irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, a single large, uneven colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Arrowhead shaped, elongate. Sulcus almost fills mesial surface and runs almost the length of the otolith. Cauda: Short, deepening posteriorly, not completely filled by colliculum, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along cauda, poor over ostium. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Small and narrow, dorsal area appears crys¬ talline. Ventral depression: Absent, there is a broad, flat area below sulcus which falls away steeply. There may be a shallow groove towards the anterior at 90 degrees to the sulcus. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus altipennis, SSF No. 116.4 PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: From the CapetoKosiBay, also on the Agulhas Bank; other subspecies in most subtropical areas. Attains 38 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/4 (8.54-10.0 mm OD, 280-320 mm SL), PEM 1606, 8340, 1388H, 1389H; Kosi Bay and Tsitsikamma; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened, may be slightly emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and very irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded with a postero-ventral hom and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, sin¬ gle, distinctly raised and crystalline, does not fill the sulcus - separated from walls. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, mainly dorsally, arrowhead like. Opens antero- dorsally and antero- ventrally, floor of ostium raised in midline of excisura. Cauda: Has a slight dorsal flexion and is very deep at tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, sulcus deep. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow above neck. Ventral depression: Absent, area flattened drops away steeply. Rostrum: Small and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Minute, pointed. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow and angle varies. Cypselurus oligolepis (Bleeker, 1866), SSF No. 116.- PLATE 36 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in the tropical Indian Ocean including the Red Sea and the Gulf. Also occurs in the western Pacific Ocean. Attains c. 17 cm SL (Parin & Shirshov 1984). MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.85 mm OD, 77 mm SL), PEM 15395 (RUSI 40558); Mozambique 28°24’S, 34°42’E; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, dentate anteriorly and cre¬ nate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, 71 heterosulcoid. Coliiculum: Homomorph, single, extremely low colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oblong, taper¬ ing anteriorly and shallow. Cauda: Short, oval and shallow, pit-like. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, moderately well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moder¬ ately well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Indistinct, shallow and irregular over neck. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow and angle wide. Exocoetus volitans, SSF No. 116.6 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: Worldwide in tropical waters; occasionally found in this area. Attains 18 cm SL. MATERIAL: 5/1 0 (3.84.9 mm OD, 1 27- 1 50 mm TL), PEM 8 1 69, 8163, 8165, 8168 (RUSI 34147), 8166 (RUSI 28521); AlgoaBay and Sodwana; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared slightly dorsally, like an arrow head, colliculum not present at anterior tip. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, tip flexed with pit, colli¬ culum fills cauda except at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.8, 1:1.8, 1:2.1, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, very poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, area smooth, rim close to margin is rough. Ventral depression. Absent, area smooth, rim close to margin is rough. In large otoliths (c. 4.9 mm OD) a very shallow groove close to the margin may be present. Rostrum: Very small and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle varies. Hirundichthys rondeletii , SSF No. 116.7 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in southern and northern subtropical waters of all oceans, absent in tropics; common off the Cape. Attains c. 25 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.6 mm OD, 200 mm SL), PEM 6488; locality unknown. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and very irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded . Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, deep. Colliculum: Homomorph, single crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorso-ventrally and narrows to a point anteriorly, arrowhead-like, partially filled by colliculum. Cauda: Approxi¬ mately straight, deeper than ostium, slightly flared and rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, low ridge over anterior cauda becoming well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow above neck, area slightly grooved. Ventral depression: Absent, area below ostium is grooved. Flat area below sulcus falls away steeply. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Parexocoetus mento, SSF No. 116.10 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea; com¬ mon north of DelagoaBay ; invaded the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. Attains c. 1 1 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/4, two same No. (2. 1-3.3 mm OD, 3386 = c. 55 mm SL), PEM 3386, 0034; Natal; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Very grooved and uneven. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, cre- nate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomoiph, single crystalline colliculum. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared slightly dorsally. Sulcus very poorly defined. Cauda: Slightly flexed and deeper than ostium, walls very poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.6, 1:0.9. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area a raised, smooth plateau with steep and rough edges. Ventral depression: Absent, area a raised, smooth plateau with steep and rough edges. Rostrum: Very small and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch absent. HEMIRAMPHIDAE Nelson No. 201 Family characteristics: Otoliths similar to Belonidae. Otoliths elliptic to oval, pointed anteriorly with heterosulcoid sulcus, ostial opening and low, usually crystalline homomorph colliculum. Ostium characteristically arrowhead shaped, flared on dorsal side only. Up to c. 10 mm OD. Key la. Otolith elliptic; ostium shallow; caudal tip poorly defined, not flexed; dorsal depression absent . . Euleptorhamphus viridis 115.1 lb. Otolith oval or elliptic; ostium arrowhead-shaped; caudal tip distinct, usually flexed; may have dorsal depression . 2 2a. Sulcus virtually straight or with slight upward flexion; cauda approximately horizontal to slightly upwardly flexed, tip not down-flexed; dorsal depression absent . Hyporhamphus capensis 115 .4 2b. Cauda approximately horizontal with down-flexed tip; dorsal depression shallow or absent . 3 3a. Dorsal margin of otolith with tooth at midpoint; dorsal depression small and oval over cauda; crista superior poorly developed and irregular over cauda; caudal tip sharply down-flexed . Heniirhamphus far 115.2 3b. Dorsal margin of otolith without tooth; dorsal depression elongate and shallow or absent; crista superior poorly developed along sulcus, not irregular; cauda with slightly flexed tip . 4 4a. Otolith oval and relatively squat; groove on lateral surface under dorsal margin notch in large otoliths (>7mm OD); sulcus broad and well defined; dorsal depression present . Hyporhamphus qffinis 115 .3 4b. Otolith elongate and elliptic, tapering anteriorly; no groove on lateral surface; sulcus relatively narrow and poorly defined; dorsal depression absent .... Oxyporhamphus micropterus micropterus 115.6 Euleptorhamphus viridis, SSF No. 115.1 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: From Table Bay, Algoa Bay and Kei River mouth. Tropical and temperate waters of tropical Indo-Pacific. Attains 40 cm. 72 MATERIAL: 2/4 (2.8, 2.95 mm OD, 101, 105 mm TL), PEM 8170, 8226; Kosi Bay and Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Elliptic to oval. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Very grooved to margin sculptures. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin; Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a sin¬ gle, indistinct colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally, walls very poorly defined. Cauda: Poorly defined, tip indistinct, slightly deeper than ostium. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Extremely poorly developed, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Extremely poorly developed. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, area uneven. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Hemiramphus far, SSF No. 1 15.2 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: Common from Knysna to Delagoa Bay with a few records west to False Bay. Widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters of Indo-West Pacific. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 4/44 (5.67-9.6 mm OD, 347-500 mm TL), PEM 2970, 6724, 3875, 4865; Natal and Algoa Bay; Id. MJS, HMK. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: A ridge behind dorsal margin tooth present. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, entire with a tooth at mid point. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomoiph, a single fused, low colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, like an ar¬ rowhead. Cauda: Straight with uneven dorsal wall, tip flexed to recurved. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.0, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed and irregular. Crista inferior: Poorly developed and irregular. Dorsal depression: Small and oval above cauda. Ventral depression: Small and oval below cauda. There may be a shallow ventral groove near margin at caudal tip and a pit at the end of the cauda. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Hyporhamphus affinis, SSF No. 115.3 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in tropical Indo-West Pa¬ cific from east coast of Africa south to Sodwana Bay; Red Sea through Indian Ocean islands to Western Australia, New Guinea, Philippines and islands of Oceania. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.75, 7.26 mm OD, 199, 358 mm TL), PEM 8227, 2709 (RUSI 9509); Kosi Bay and Sodwana; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Groove under dorsal margin notch in large otoliths. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded, large otoliths (>7mm OD) with notch; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single, crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared slightly dorsally, like an arrowhead. Cauda: Approximately straight with a ventral flex¬ ion at tip, filled by the colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: S fight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Small, elongate and shallow over cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, with a wide, shallow groove near the margin in large otoliths. Rostrum: Very small and rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Hyporhamphus capensis, SSF No. 115.4 PLATE 37 DISTRIBUTION: A southern African endemic from False Bay to Lake Piti in southern Mozambique. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 4/20 (2.0-3.08 mm OD, 115-165 mm TL), PEM 5939, 5935, 4321 (RUSI 13233), 1387; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single, fused colficu- lum, rough in appearance. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slight flare of dorsal margin, like an arrowhead. Colliculum not present at anterior tip. Cauda: Virtually straight, colliculum fills cauda, tip not flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3, 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch minute or absent. Oxyporhamphus micropterus micropterus, SSF No. 115.6 PLATE 38 DISTRIBUTION: Off Natal and Transkei; widespread throughout Indo-West Pacific between 20°S and 30°N. Attains 185 mm. MATERIAL: 3/3, same No. (3.75-5.38 mm OD, 97-132mm SL), PEM 0529; off Mexico; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to dentate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single, low colliculum. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Slight flare of dorsal margin, like an arrowhead. Sulcus poorly defined. Cauda: Straight with a strongly flexed tip, filled by colliculum. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.5, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Very narrow, notch minute. BELONIDAE Nelson No. 202 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval to oblong, up to c. 7 mm OD. Archaesulcoid sulcus, straight or slightly sinuous with ostial opening, homomorph with single crystalline or rugose colliculum. Key la. Colliculum on floor of sulcus smooth or rugose; small pit at nucleus on lateral surface of otolith . Petalichthys capensis 113.2 lb. Colliculum on floor of sulcus crystalline; lateral surface either with no distinguishing features or with groove . 2 2a. Excisural notch moderately long; groove on lateral surface of otolith from nucleus to excisural notch; colliculum reaches anterior margin or excisural notch . Tylosurus crocodilus crocodilus 113.4 2b. Excisural notch very shallow, no distinguishing features on lateral surface of otolith; colliculum may not reach anterior margin . Ablennes hians 113.1 73 Ablennes hians, SSF No. 113.1 PLATE 38 DISTRIBUTION: From Natal south to Algoa Bay. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters; in the Atlantic extending south to Mocamedes, southern Angola. Attains 90 cm BL, over 120 cm SL. MATERIAL: 5/13 (3.75-7.0 mm OD, 546-1171 mm TL), PEM 4885, 15572 (RUSI 41956), 5926, 6485, 6508; Gulf of Aqaba, Kosi Bay and Natal; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded to flattened, crenate to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or angled and oblique, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, single, large, crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, single colliculum may be absent from anterior and posterior extremities. Sulcus is approximately straight, narrowing anteriorly. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Absent or poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Very shallow in larger otoliths. Ventral de¬ pression: Very shallow in larger otoliths. Rostrum: Small and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle acute. Petalichthys capensis, SSF No. 113.2 PLATE 38 DISTRIBUTION: South African endemic; from False Bay to Pondoland (Transkei). Attains 26 cm BL, 35 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/7 (1.39-3.64 mm OD, 203-350 mm TL), PEM 1442, 0759, 2095, 2094; Algoa Bay and Agulhas Bank; Id. GJBR, ALB. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Central nucleus pit always present. Dorsal margin: Rounded to slightly flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Flat¬ tened and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, single rugose colliculum fills sulcus. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Sulcus sinuous, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough. Ventral depression: Absent, area rough. Rostrum: Short and bluntly pointed or rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute, small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varied. Tylosurus crocodilus crocodilus, SSF No. 113.4 PLATE 38 DISTRIBUTION: This subspecies is widely distributed in the Atlantic and Indo-West Pacific in tropical and subtropical waters south to Knysna. Attains at least 86 cm BL, 125 cm SL. MATERIAL: 5/16 (3.66-4.8 mm OD, c. 415-462 mm TL), PEM 0323, 2711, 12819 (RUSI 28320), 15329 (RUSI 36881), 8410; Northern Natal and AlgoaBay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex. - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Groove from nucleus to excisural notch. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flattened, irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, and crenate, posterior ventral margin straight and less crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, sin¬ gle large, slightly crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus approximately straight, floor crystalline and walls poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ventral depression: Absent, area slightly uneven. Rostrum: Small, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow and angle acute. SCOMBERESOCI DAE Nelson No. 203 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otolith small (to c. 2.4 mm OD) ovate, archaesulcoid, ostial opening with large rostrum and homomorph, single crystalline colliculum. Scomberesox saurus scomberoides, SSF No. 114.2 PLATE 38 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal in southern hemisphere; known along most of our coast. Attains 50 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/36 (1. 5-2.4 mm OD, 180-321 mm TL), PEM 14657, 13960, 10864, 12879 (RUSI 28321); Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Small pit in nucleus region. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single slightly raised, crystalline colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus shallow with an irregular floor and posterior ventral flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not con¬ stricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly devel¬ oped or absent. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow and angle wide. ORDER ATHERINIFORMES ATHERINIDAE Nelson No. 213 Family characteristics: Otoliths small (<5 mm OD), discoid to oval, heterosulcoid with short ostium and long cauda, heteromorph with indistinct colliculi. Key la. Sulcus in midline of otolith; ostium short, flared slightly; cauda horizontal and straight. . Atherina breviceps 111.1 lb. Sulcus dorsal to midline; ostium bulbous; cauda sinuous and long . 2 2a. Ostium deep and moderately distinct . . Atherinomorus lacunosus 111.3 2b. Ostium shallow with very poorly defined walls . . Hypoatherina temminckii 111.6 Atherina breviceps, SSF No. 111.1 PLATE 39 DISTRIBUTION: Appears to have a restricted distribution from Luderitz, Namibia to northern Natal. Attains 11 cm. MATERIAL: 6/35 (2.0-3.1 mm OD, 60-89 mm TL), PEM 2157, 10445, 10446, 4592 (RUSI 14941), 6424, 6425; AlgoaBay, Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Circular to oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular to lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, slightly irregular to crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low, indistinct colliculi in ostium and cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and wider than cauda, flared slightly dorso-ven- trally. Cauda: Deep in centre, straight except dorsal wall flexed 74 ventrally at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventraUy constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:2.2, 1:1.8, 1:2.1, 1:1.8, 1:2.0. Collum: Absent, but step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, poorly developed at posterior. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sul¬ cus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, area raised and rough. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Atherinomorus lacunosus, SSF No. 111.3 PLATE 39 DISTRIBUTION: Ubiquitous in Indo-West Pacific to East Lon¬ don but rare south of Natal; Red Sea and eastern Mediterranean. Attains 14cm. MATERIAL: 6/23 (1.7-4.45 mm OD, 56-132 mm TL), 1249H, 1210H, 1245H, PEM 15432 (RUSI 40584), 8303 (RUSI 34146), 1239H, [15433-15435 (all RUSI 40584)]; Gulf of Aqaba, Natal and Mozambique; Id. TH, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Discoid to circular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral: slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, becoming notched posteriorly (c. 4 mm OD); sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial but in large (c. 4 mm OD) ostio-caudal with a narrow opening to margin, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ventral wall becoming distinctly bulbous and deep with growth (>2 mm OD). Sulcus in dorsal third of otolith. Cauda: Slightly sinuous with ventral flexion at tip, may have narrow opening to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.2, 1:2.5, 1:3.0, 1:3.5, 1:3.0, 1:3.2. Collum: Absent, but step up to ostium. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, well-developed to low ridge over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow in centre above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove near margin (>3 mm OD). Rostrum: Broad and pointed or rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, deeper in juveniles (<2 mm OD), angle varies. Hypoatherina temminckii, SSF No. 111.6 PLATE 39 DISTRIBUTION: Common in south Pacific, northern Australia, Indian Ocean and Red Sea; south to Delagoa Bay. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.3-2.65 mm OD, 74-77 mm TL), PEM 15576 & 15577 (both RUSI 42687), 2845; Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Circular to slightly discoid. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral: slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and notched at sulcus. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shallow, poorly defined, bulbous and deeper than cauda. Cauda: Slightly sinuous with slight ventral flexion at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.4, 1:2.3, 1:3.0. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent, area slightly uneven. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, area well rounded, groove near margin. Ros¬ trum: Small, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. ORDER LAMPRI FORMES LOPHOTIDAE Nelson No. 220 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otoliths small (c. 4 mm OD). Rectangular, heterosulcoid, ostio-caudal openings. Homomorph, single anterior colliculum. Rostrum and antirostrum distinct. Lophotus lacepede, SSF No. 121.2 PLATE 39 DISTRIBUTION: Rare; widely distributed in all oceans. Attains 200 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (2.6^.0 mm OD, 6067 = 1 130 mm SL, 0725 = 1245 mm TL), PEM 6067, 15337, 14585, 0725; south and south¬ east coasts of South Africa; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thin. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: A groove in the centre from the notch. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid, not clearly defined. Col¬ liculum: Homomorph, a single, irregular, raised colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Contains a raised irregular colliculum which extends along the rostrum. Cauda: Deep, col¬ liculum only just penetrates it, cauda flared slightly dorsally, poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.5, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over the ostium, poorly de¬ veloped over the cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like over the rostrum, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent, area grooved. Ventral depression: Absent, area uneven. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. TRACHIPTERIDAE Nelson No. 222 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otolith small (c. 3 mm OD), approximately ovate, heterosulcoid, openings ostio- caudal. Heteromoiph, large anterior colliculum penetrates excisu¬ ra. Only one representative species available to us. Trachipterus trachypterus, SSF No. 119.3 PLATE 39 DISTRIB UTTON : Rare but widely distributed from Mediterranean Sea to South Africa (Table Bay), Japan and New Zealand. Attains 213 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.85 mm OD, 1650 mm TL), 1419H; off Namibia; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flat; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Indented and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Has elongate anterior colliculum penetrating the excisura. Cauda: Contains a short posterior colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Broad and uneven ridge. Crista inferior: Ab¬ sent. Dorsal depression: Absent Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and slightly rounded. Antirostrum: Small and bluntly rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. REGALECIDAE Nelson No. 223 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otoliths ex¬ tremely small (c. 0.9 mm OD), rectangular, heterosulcoid, ostial, homomorph with single anterior colliculum. Rostrum and antiros¬ trum minute and rounded. 75 Agrostichthys parkeri, SSF No. 122.1 PLATE 39 DISTRIBUTION: Southeast Atlantic, New Zealand and Tasma¬ nia. Attains 3m. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.9 mm OD, 610 mm TL), PEM 13182; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Rectangular to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, cauda not closed; heterosulcoid, narrows posteriorly. Colliculum: Homomorph, slightly raised anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Contains colli¬ culum, approximately horizontal and straight. Cauda: Deep, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ven- tral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along length of sulcus, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well devel¬ oped under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, area uneven. Rostrum: Minute, rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. ATELEOPODIDAE Nelson No. 225 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otoliths oval to irregular oblong, irregularly lobed dorsal margin, to c. 8 mm OD. Archaesulcoid, ostial opening, homomorph, sulcus poorly defined. Ateleopus natalensis, SSF No. 124.2 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Cape to Red Sea. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: An (4.1-7 .2 mm OD, 80-500 mm SL), PEM 14496 (RUSI 31372), 1 3060 (RUSI 28332), 12949 (RUSI 28334), 13059 (RUSI 28333), [13046 (RUSI 34088)]; Mozambique and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to irregular oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, irregularly lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular to lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but smallest otoliths appear mesial, opening may be very narrow, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single, uneven, slightly raised colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Sulcus curved ventrally, colliculum lies towards ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Well developed under colliculum, absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent, area irregular. Ventral depression: Deep depression under colliculum often near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded to minute. Excisura: Narrow to moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. ORDER BERYCI FORMES MONOCENTRIDIDAE Nelson No. 229 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otolith moderate in size (to c. 9 mm), shape discoid to square, heterosulcoid, para-ostial opening. Heteromorph with oval anterior colliculum in bulbous ostium and narrower posterior colliculum, angled dorsally. Monocentris japonicus, SSF No. 128.1 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Common in Japan; Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea south to Mossel Bay. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (5.7-8.98 mm OD, 85-100 mm TL), PEM 0342, 0142, 0194; Algoa Bay; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Discoid to square. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Approxi¬ mately flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Ap¬ proximately straight and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval with a bulbous ventral margin with oval colliculum , with narrow anterior canal to anterior margin. Cauda: Dorsally angled, short and narrow, colliculum with raised ventral edge. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Low ridge along entire sulcus, absent at tip. Crista infe¬ rior: Very poorly developed under ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, large and oval, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Excisura: Very narrow, notch shallow, angle acute. TRACHICHTHYIDAE Nelson No. 230 Family characteristics: Otoliths large, up to c. 17 mm OD, shapes either highly irregular with emarginate margins, or discoid with lobed or digitate dorsal margin. Heterosulcoid, either ostial or ostio-caudal openings, cristae poorly developed. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and broad, posterior, narrower and elon¬ gate. Key la. Otolith discoid; dorsal margin rounded and irregular to digitate . Hoplostethus mediterraneus 127.4 lb. Otolith shape highly irregular; dorsal margin emarginate, notched, may be lobed . 2 2a. Otolith shape irregular, crescentic to oblong; margins emarginate and lobed; ventral margin with two papillae . Hoplostethus melanopus 127.6 2b. Otolith rectangular to highly irregular; margins highly eroded, sulcus also becomes eroded; ventral margin with no papillae . Hoplostethus atlanticus 127.2 Hoplostethus atlanticus, SSF No. 127.2 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Appears to be anti-tropical in distribution; on both sides of Atlantic Ocean (from Iceland to Morocco and Walvis Bay to off Durban); also reported from south -central Indian Ocean and New Zealand. Attains 69 cm. MATERIAL: 7/68 (4.9-17.0 mm OD, 180435 mm TL), PEM 14658, 14089, 14098, 13696 (RUSI 28325), 14099, 14104, 13853, [14897 (RUSI 35600)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular initially, becoming very irregular with growth (>8 mm OD), extreme erosion of margins into sulcus, especially the cauda. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: -Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral: convex. Dor¬ sal margin: Irregularly notched and emarginate; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Irregularly notched and emarginate, entire. Pos¬ terior margin: Straight and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-cau¬ dal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ostial colliculum large and distinct, caudal colliculum low and small. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, lies along rostrum, contains large colliculum. Cauda: Approximately oval, colliculum lies along ventral wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted . Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.0, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1 :0.4. Collum: May be present, low, especially in small otoliths. Crista superior: Poorly developed over cauda, absent over ostium. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Shallow, postero-dorsally positioned. Ventral depression: Very shallow beneath ostium. Rostrum: Very large and bluntly rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Large and rounded. Excisura: Very wide, notch deep¬ ening with growth, angle varied. 76 Hoplostethus mediterraneus , SSF No. 127.4 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Namibia to Natal. Reported from both sides of Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Indian Ocean and off south coast of Australia and New Zealand. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 6/45 (4.3-10.0 mm OD, 70-174 mm TL), PEM 12797, 12721, 14158 (RUSI 28326), 12720 (RUSI 28327), 14756, 14757, [14888 (RUSI 35514), 14949 & 14950 (both RUSI 35517)]; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid, becoming digitate dorsally with growth (>5 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed to digitate. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire with two papillae. Posterior margin: Slightly flattened and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, well defined, very low anterior colliculum, posterior colli¬ culum narrow, lying ventrally. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, oval and bulbous, containing oval colliculum. Cauda: Broad, with upward flex, narrow low colliculum lies along ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.0, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well-developed to ridge-like over ostium, poorly developed along cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Hoplostethus melanopus, SSF No. 127.6 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Indonesia to Natal, also off Namibia and Cape Town. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (6.0-7 .0 mm OD, 147-165 mm TL), PEM 14751, 14632, 14633; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Emarginate, crescentic to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular with two papillae. Posterior mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded with narrow lobe. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Poorly defined, oval in shape and filled with low oval colliculum. Cauda: Poorly defined, approximately oval, colliculum low and narrow lies along ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Shallow, above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. ANOMALOPIDAE Nelson No. 231 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otolith rhomboidal, small (to c. 4.4 mm), heterosulcoid with para-ostial or para-ostio- caudal openings. Cristae very poorly defined. Heterosulcoid with colliculi different sizes. Photoblepharon palpebratus steinitzi , SSF No. 129.1 PLATE 41 DISTRIBUTION : Not yet recorded from southern Africa. Known from the Comoro Ids and Red Sea. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.9, 4.4 mm OD, 85, 90 mm TL), PEM 14255, 14254; Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial or para-ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, col¬ liculi vary greatly in size. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, larger than cauda, contains large colliculum and almost closed anteriorly. Cauda: Narrower, short with small, low colli¬ culum, tip may open to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: A groove present above flat area but below ridge on margin. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow ventral groove near margin. Rostrum: Short broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. DIRETMIDAE Nelson No. 232 Family characteristics: Otoliths triangular or tall up to c. 10 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with either ostio-caudal or para-ostial open¬ ings, cauda not closed. Heteromorph. Key la. Otolith triangular; sulcus opening ostio-caudal . . Diretmoides parini 130.1 lb. Otolith tall; sulcus opening para-ostial . . Diretmus argenteus 1 30.2 Diretmoides parini , SSF No. 130.1 PLATE 41 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical to temperate in Atlantic Ocean, leav¬ ing a gap between 7°N and 17°S; probably circumglobal in south¬ ern oceans. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.0-7. 8 mm OD, 80-126 mm SL), PEM 12008, 13271, 12011; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Triangular. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Hattened; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Pointed and serrate. Posterior margin: V-shaped and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared ven¬ trally, large colliculum has raised dorsal edge. Cauda: Straight, narrow, no wall at tip of cauda, smaller oval colliculum, posteriorly situated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.5, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, low ridge in mid¬ section, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, low ridge in mid section, absent posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Small, oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, margin grooved. Rostrum: Small, broad and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle acute. Diretmus argenteus, SSF No. 130.2 PLATE 41 DISTRIBUTION: Eurytropical in all oceans. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/20 (4.0-9.6mmOD, 55-129 mm TL), PEM 14295, 14293, 13197, 13137; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Tall, dorso-ventrally oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed to digitate. Ventral margin: Rounded to pointed and serrate. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, caudal re¬ gion not closed but does not reach margin, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval, posterior colliculum narrower and low with raised ventral edge. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, ventrally flared, bulbous, closed to margin except for narrow channel, contains oval colliculum. Cauda: Short and broad, tip not closed, low narrow colliculum lies along ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.0, 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:1.0. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well-developed over ostium, low ridge 77 over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poor under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, above crista. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Minute and rounded. Anti- rostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. ANOPLOG ASTRI DAE Nelson No. 233 Family characteristics: One species available. Otolith tall, mod¬ erately small (to c. 4 mm OD), archaesulcoid, openings ostio-cau- dal. No raised colliculi. Cristae absent and sulcus very poorly defined. Anoplogaster cornuta, SSF No. 131.1 PLATE 41 DISTRIBUTION: In Agulhas Currentto about29°S; north of 35°S off West Coast (?outside Benguela Upwelling Region). World¬ wide between 46°N and 46°S. Attains c. 15 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.4-4.2 mm OD, 0541 = 114 mm SL, 13138 = 114 mm TL), PEM 0541, 0932, 13138; California and Cape west Coast; Id. JEF, PAH. Otolith shape: Tall. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Keeled and lobed. Posterior margin: Angular and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, ar¬ chaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus broad and shallow with bulging ventral margin and approximately horizontal dorsal margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Ab¬ sent. Dorsal depression: Shallow area with shallow grooves from margin. Ventral depression: Absent, area slightly grooved. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and lobed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and broad. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. BERYCIDAE Nelson No. 234 Family characteristics: Two species available. Otoliths large (up to c. 13 mm OD), shape approximately triangular with keeled ventral margin. Heterosulcoid and ostial, cauda not distinctly closed, may be ostio-caudal. Heteromorph colliculi. Key la. Otolith shape approximately triangular; ventral keel angular and margin crenate; ostium elongate, oblong; caudal tip flared . Beryx splendens 126.2 lb. Otolith shape rounded triangular; ventral keel rounded and margin irregular; ostium ventrally bulbous, oval; caudal tip narrow . Centroberyx spinosus 126.3 Beryx splendens , SSF No. 126.2 PLATE 41 DISTRIBUTION: Both sides of Atlantic; also Australia, Japan and Hawaii; in this area from Saldanha Bay to Natal. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 4/41 (9.0-12.6 mm OD, 191-365 mm TL), PEM 14721, 14192, 14198, 14193; Cape west coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately triangular. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, irregular or crenate. Ven¬ tral margin: Keeled and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, occasional¬ ly ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, large anterior colliculum, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and contains oval colliculum. Cauda: Approximately straight with poorly defined tip, may sometimes be open onto margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus length, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poor under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, area slightly grooved. Ros¬ trum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Centroberyx spinosus , SSF No. 126.3 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from off Storms River to Durban. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7.11, 10.66 mm OD, 92, 152 mm SL), PEM 14913 (RUSI 35562), 1575H; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to rounded triangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Keeled and slightly irregular to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, approximately entire. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial but cauda not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, distinct ostial colliculum and a less distinct caudal colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ventrally bul¬ bous, almost filled with low oval colliculum. Cauda: Flexion at tip, not closed, contains a low, centrally depressed colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Osti- um/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over neck, well developed elsewhere, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large and shallow, covers almost entire area. Ventral depression: Absent, slight ventral groove at margin. Rostrum: Very broad short and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded, or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow or absent. HOLOCENTRI DAE Nelson No. 235 Family characteristics: The two subfamilies, Holocentrinae and Myripristinae have otoliths which fall into two distinct groups. The Holocentrinae are oval-ovate, up to c. 9 mm OD, usually with emarginate posterior margin, heterosulcoid, homomorph with sin¬ gle, oval anterior colliculum, opening ostial, cauda flexed. Ostium is bulbous ventrally with straight dorsal wall. The Myripristinae have rounded triangular otoliths up to about 18 mm OD, hetero¬ sulcoid, usually with a hammerhead ostium, complex, forked cauda, with heteromorph colliculi. Broad ventral and reduced dorsal area. Opening ostial and moderate, onto dorsal margin. These differences suggest that the subfamilies should be raised to family status. Key 1 a Otoliths oval, oblong or ovate: Holocentrinae . 2 lb. Otoliths roundly triangular: Myripristinae . 9 2a. Otolith broad with wide ventral area; ventral margin angularly keeled; cauda sharply flexed at about half its length . Sargocentron spiniferum 132.16 2b. Otoliths narrower with narrower ventral area; ventral margin rounded or slightly rounded; cauda not sharply flexed . 3 3a. Otolith elongate and narrow; ostium slightly emarginate in excisura; ridge on lateral surface of otolith under excisural notch . . . Sargocentron punctatissimum 132.13 3b. Otoliths not distinctly elongate and narrow; ostium not emarginate, may be slightly notched; lateral surface with¬ out distinguishing features . 4 4a. Otolith oval; cauda angled diagonally across otolith, cauda slightly flexed; posterior margin of otolith rounded . Sargocentron inaequalis 132.7 4b. Otoliths oval-ovate, not oval; cauda horizontal then flexed; posterior margin usually emarginate .... 5 78 5a. Dorsal margin of otolith and area above dorsal depression crenate; cauda strongly flexed with narrow tip; ventral area of otolith rounded, wide and emarginate posteriorly with homed comers . . Sargocentron melanospilos 132.10 5b. Dorsal margin of otolith usually not crenate; cauda gently flexed or sharply flexed with wider tip; ventral area wide and margin more angled, or area narrower . 6 6a. Crista superior distinct, broad and ridge-like; dorsal area reduced and depressed but raised posteriorly over flexion; cauda flexed near tip; otolith moderately narrow; posterior margin lobed and emarginate . Neoniphon sammara 132.4 6b. Crista superior well developed; dorsal area, if depressed, not raised posteriorly; cauda flexed in posterior half or third; otolith moderately broad; posterior margin not lobed if emarginate . 7 7a. Ostium elongate; dorsal margin of anterior cauda curved and sinuous; ventral margin of otolith rounded; dorsal area with ridge in mid-area . . Sargocentron praslin 132.12 7b. Ostium short and bulbous ventrally; cauda approximately straight before flexion; ventral margin of otolith rounded or angular; dorsal area with no ridge . 8 8a. Ventral area large; ventral margin usually rounded; cauda strongly flexed with elongate tip; posterior margin usually notched . . Sargocentron caudimaculatum 132.5 8b. Ventral area moderate; ventral margin usually angular; cauda not strongly flexed with relatively short tip; posterior margin of otolith may be slightly emarginate or notched . Sargocentron diadema 132.6 9a. Otoliths approximately lunate to rounded triangular; ostium oval . Plectrypops lima 132.34 9b. Otolith distinctly rounded triangular; ostium approximately oval or hammerhead-shaped . 10 10a. Ostium approximately oval; ventral margin of otolith a distinctly rounded keel; ventral margin is emarginate on anterior and posterior side of ventral keel . . Ostichthys kaianus 132.33 10b. Ostium hammerhead-shaped with posteriorly directed dorsal and ventral lobes; ventral margin has less waisted appearance to ventral keel . 11 11a. Ventral lobe of ostium very elongate and posteriorly directed . Myripristis chry seres 132.22 lib. Ventral lobe of ostium not distinctly elongate; about 6 species very similar and difficult to separate without otolith material for comparison because of intraspecific variability and similarity in features: Myripristis bemdti 131.21, M. hexagona 132.23, M. kuntee 132.24, M. melanosticta 132.25, M. murdjan 132.26, M. pralinia 132.27. Neoniphon sammara, SSF No. 132.4 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Pitcairn Group, Australia and Japan; south to Durban. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1044H = 6.54 mm OD, 230 mm TL, rest broken), 1292H, 1 177H, 1044H; Gulf of Aqaba and Red Sea; Id. TH, IP. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat, rising towards posterior; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Round¬ ed and crenate. Posterior margin: Emarginate and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ap¬ proximately oval with raised, oval colliculum. Cauda: Narrow, ventrally flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1044H = 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from posterior ostium to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Absent at ostial tip, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate, along the length of crista. Ventral depression: Absent, area under ostium slightly rippled. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Very small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sargocentron caudimaculatum, SSF No. 132.5 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo- Pacific; south to Xora River mouth, Transkei; relatively common at Sodwana Bay. Attains c. 25 cm. MATERIAL: 5/15 (3.7-8.24 mm OD, 74-245 mm TL), PEM 14273, 2905, 4382, 2651, 3923 (RUSI 16086); Natal and the Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming flattened; sculpture, irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Straight (c. 3 mm OD) to notched or emarginate with growth (>c. 5 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and contains low colliculum. Cauda: Strongly flexed at about half its length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.5, 1:1.1, 1:1.8, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Very well developed from posterior ostium to mid-cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poor at extreme anterior, well developed else¬ where. Dorsal depression: Elongate and area uneven, close to margin. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth to rippled. Rostrum: Large and broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent or very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Sargocentron diadema, SSF No. 132.6 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Wide ranging in the Indo-Pacific; south to East London. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 4/22 (3.8-6.28 mm OD, 86-173 mm TL), PEM 14264, 2866, 6667 (RUSI 21202), 2865, [8664 (RUSI 37455)]; Sodwana, Natal and Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming angular, very slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to emarginate, dorsal cor¬ ner rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dorsal margin straight, ven¬ tral bulbous, containing oval colliculum. Cauda: Narrow and flexed in posterior third. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Anteriorly well de¬ veloped to ridge-like, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth. Rostrum: Large and slightly rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. 79 Sargocentron inae quails, SSF No. 132.7 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Chagos Archipelago, Co¬ moro Ids and the Seychelles. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.7 mm OD, 97 mm TL), PEM 14223 (RUSI 30602); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly undulating. Ventral mar¬ gin: Well rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Homomorph, single anterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Dorsal wall straight, ventral bulbous, containing a low, oval, uneven colliculum. Cauda: Narrow, gently flexed, ending close to postero-caudal margin. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Col- lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and anterior cauda, less well developed from flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow, close to margin. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, area smooth. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded to absent. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow and angle wide or notch absent. Sargocentron melanospilos, SSF No. 132.10 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and western Indian Ocean, (Sey¬ chelles, Aldabra and Zanzibar) to Japan, Australia, New Caledonia and American Samoa, probably occurs in this area. Attains 20 cm, (25 cm in Japan). MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.72 mm OD, 231 mm TL), 1045H; Nuweiba; Id. as Holocentrus comutus by TH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Ap¬ proximately straight; sculpture, irregular, crenate in mid-dorsal area. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Emarginate, dorsal and ventral comers are horn-like. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, containing colliculum. Cauda: Narrow and straight for about two thirds of length then sharply flexed, close to posterior wall. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, shal¬ low under the crenate part of dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sargocentron praslin, SSF No. 132.12 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific; no specimens available from south of Ibo, Mozambique (15°S). Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.8, 7.6 mm OD, 148, 222 mm TL), PEM 8664, 5971; ORI. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Ap¬ proximately straight; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Strongly rounded to angular, slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Emarginate, slightly irregular, becomes homed in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, with slightly raised colliculum. Cauda: Narrow with slight sag in mid area, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Present, irregular along most of dorsal area, which has ridge in centre. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, area smooth. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Sargocentron punctatissimum, SSF No. 132.13 PLATE 42 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-Pacific, east to Hawaiian Islands and Easter Island; south to Algoa Bay. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3. 8-5 .06 mm OD, 94- 144 mm TL), PEM 14271, 2671, 2804; Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids; Id. GRA, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Raised ridge behind excisural notch. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Slightly round¬ ed, crenate or slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single, slightly raised anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, narrows anteriorly, with low colliculum. Cauda: Narrow with gentle flexion at posterior. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal, distinct ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.5, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire length of sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shal¬ low and elongate above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Sargocentron spiniferum, SSF No. 132.16 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and east coast of Africa south to Natal, east to French Polynesia and the Pitcairn Group. Attains c. 45 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (7.2-10.14 mm OD, 192-420 mm IL), PEM 8337 & 8336 (both RUSI 37489), 15575 (RUSI 42759); Kosi Bay, Eilat; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhombic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin; Angularly keeled, slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Emarginate with two horns. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, single anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, filled with colliculum. Cauda: Narrow and roughly horizontal, sharply flexed at half the length, lying close to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.8. Col¬ lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and close to margin, postero-dorsal comer depressed. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Myripristis berndti , SSF No. 132.21 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific and tropical eastern Pacific; south to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL; 6/15 (4.75-9.6 mm OD, 67-193mmTL), PEM 2793, 2867, 2790, 6670 (RUSI 34094), 7707 (RUSI 34094), 4613; Sodwana and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Roundly triangular. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Approximately flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Keeled and sharply rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal in uncoated otoliths, but cauda is 80 closed), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colli- culum and complex posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hammerhead-like, dorso-ventrally tall, filled with low, smooth colliculum. Cauda: Complex with forked tail, with posterior colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.7, 1:2.3, 1:1.8, (6670 broken), 1:2.5, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, narrow and ridge-like outlining cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and central cauda, ridge-like under ventral fork. Dorsal depression: Deep behind dorsal fork. Ventral depression: Notch-like on posterior margin. Rostrum: Small and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Myripristis chryseres, SSF No. 132.22 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Hawaiian Islands, Japan, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Reunion and Aliwal Shoal Natal. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (11.5 mm OD, 191 mm SL), PEM 14859 (RUSI 35588); Ramsgate, Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and well rounded, emarginate under ostium, entire. Posterior margin: Approximately flattened, rounded around the cauda and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior and complex posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dorso- ventrally tall, hammerhead-shaped, contains a flat, large collicu¬ lum ventral edge extended posteriorly. Cauda: Complex with a forked tail, dorsal tail with rugose floor, ventral tail deeper, straighter and narrower. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9. Collum: Rounded and low in neck. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, narrow sharp ridge-like over the cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, and mid-cauda, narrow and ridge-like under fork of tail. Dorsal depression: Behind dorsal fork, trian¬ gular in shape. Ventral depression: Elongate notch on posterior margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, opening along the dorsal edge only, no notch. Myripristis hexagona, SSF No. 132.23 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Ranges from Samoa Islands to Inhaca Island, Mozambique. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.9 mm OD, 195 mm TL), PEM 14552 (RUSI 31410); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Roundly triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, anterior and complex posterior colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Hammer-head shaped, flexed posteriorly with low colliculum. Cauda: Complex, with fork, dorsal fork with rugose floor. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.9. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed over ostium, low ridge from about half the otolith length around to the caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and mid-cauda, low and ridge-like under fork. Dorsal depression: Behind dorsal fork, semi-circular in shape, small step between ostium and cauda to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Elongate notch in posterior margin. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch absent. Myripristis kuntee, SSF No. 132.24 PLATE 40 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/7 (8.3-9.82 mm OD, 127- 195 mm TL), PEM 2792, 14231 (RUSI 30640), 2650, 2791; SodwanaBay and Comoro Ids; Id. GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately roundly triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate to notched; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled, rounded tip, slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Slightly emarginate then rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph with one anterior and complex posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hammer-head shaped, with colliculum, slightly backward-pointing, top flat. Cauda: Complex, with forked tip, floor of dorsal fork rugose, dorsal edge not clearly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (2792 broken), 1:2.1, 1:2.1, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over posterior ostium and mid section, becoming ridge-like over the forked ends. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed under the ostium and mid-section, low ridge under fork. Dorsal depression: Behind dorsal fork. Ventral depression: Notch on posterior margin. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch ab¬ sent. Myripristis melanosticta, SSF No. 132.25 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean (Sri Lanka, Maldives, Sodwana Bay), to Japan and the New Hebrides. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.3mm OD, 203mmTL), PEM 14232; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Roundly triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Straight to rounded behind cauda, slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, one anterior and a posterior complex colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hammerhead¬ shaped, large ventral lobe, filled with low colliculum. Cauda: Complex, forked cauda, dorsal fork with rugose floor, ventral straight and deeper. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1. Collum: Low rounded collum. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, absent in mid section, low ridge over the caudal forks. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, absent in mid-section, low ridge under the fork. Dorsal depression: Behind fork. Ventral depres¬ sion: Notch in posterior margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch ab¬ sent. Myripristis murdjan, SSF No. 132.26 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-West Pacific south to Natal. Attains 27 cm. MATERIAL: 2/10 (7.5, 10.0 mm OD, 8783 = 229 mm TL), PEM 5669, 8783; Kosi and Sodwana Bays; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately roundly triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin : Emarginate with the postero-dorsal comer slightly raised and rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded to cauda, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, one anterior, and a caudal complex colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Hammerhead- shaped, ventral lobe is 81 flexed posteriorly. Cauda: Complex, forked tail, dorsal tail rugose and wing-like, ventral straight and narrow. Ventral margin of cauda approximately straight. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:2.1. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium and anterior cauda, low and ridge-like elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and mid-cauda, low and ridge- like under fork. Dorsal depression: Deep behind the dorsal fork. Ventral depression: Notch in posterior margin. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Myripristis pralinia, SSF No. 132.27 PLATE 43 DISTRIBUTION: Known from the islands of the western Indian Ocean and western Pacific. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (7.9, 8.3 mm OD, 146, 155 mm TL), PEM 14256 (RUSI 30681), 14274; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly emarginate to flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and rounded, anteriorly slightly emarginate, approximately entire. Posterior margin: Rounded behind cauda and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with one anterior and a posterior colliculum complex. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hammerhead-like, raised on dorsal margin. Cauda: Complex and forked, ventral fork constricted ventrally. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3, 1:2.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, absent over anterior cauda, ridge- like along caudal forks. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Slight depression behind dorsal fork, area between ostium and cauda flat. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch ab¬ sent. Ostichthys kaianus, SSF No. 132.33 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: Probably widely distributed but presently known from Reunion, Indonesia and the Ryukyu Islands (Japan). Attains 36 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (18.2 mm OD, 268 mm TL), PEM 14276 (RUSI 33523); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Emarginate anteriorly, lobed posteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and rounded, emarginate anteriorly and posteriorly, sculpture entire. Posterior margin: Emarginate, slightly rounded behind cauda and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, one anterior colliculum and one posterior colliculum com¬ plex. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, less hammerhead-like. Cauda: Complex fork, dorsal fork re¬ duced, ventral fork elongate. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3. Collum: Ab¬ sent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, absent under anterior cauda, low and ridge-like under ventral fork. Dorsal depression: Area reduced and notched but depression elongate, behind dorsal fork. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Plectrypops lima , SSF No. 132.34 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, including Easter Island and Hawaiian Islands, south to Natal. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (8.0-8.92 mm OD, 105-120 mm TL), PEM 14249 (RUSI 30655), 15592, 2926; Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids, Id. GRA, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rounded triangular to lunate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate; sculpture, lobed and irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, one anterior and complex posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, filled with low colliculum. Cauda: Complex, slightly forked, dorsal fork rounded and reduced, ventral fork flexed and elongate. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.6, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under entire sulcus but absent in central region of cauda. Dorsal depression: Postero-dorsal comer depressed. Ventral depression: Absent but area has smooth central bulge. Rostrum: Moderate and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. POLYMIXIIDAE Nelson No. 236 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otolith rhom- boidal up to c. 7.5 mm OD, dorsal margin raised and lobed, ventral margin well rounded, with broad ventral area. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening and flexed cauda. Homomorph with single anterior colliculum. Polymixia berndti , SSF No. 134.1 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: Known from off Natal, Kenya, Philippines, Japan and Hawaii. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (5 .7-7.5 mm OD, 1 11-160 mm TL), PEM 13028 (RUSI 28324), 12786 (RUSI 28322), 13029 (RUSI 28323); Mozambique and off AlgoaBay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised and angular; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low anterior col¬ liculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ventral wall with dip in centre, flared anteriorly, filled with colliculum. Cauda: Narrow with ventral flexion near tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like above neck, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire length. Dorsal depression: Shallow depression above neck, area grooved. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Small and sharply pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. MELAMPHAIDAE Nelson No. 238 Family characteristics: Otoliths triangular, oval or approximately circular up to c. 4.4 mm OD. Archaesulcoid, mesial or para-ostial otoliths which appear mesial if uncoated. Colliculi either homo¬ morph single colliculi or heteromorph with oval anterior and rod-like posterior colliculi. Sulcus poorly defined in all species. Key la. Otolith circular or discoid; colliculum homomorph and oval in shape . 2 lb. Otoliths triangular or oval; colliculi heteromorph ... 3 2a. Otolith approximately circular; colliculum homomorph, maybe kidney-shaped; otolith with slightly pointed anterior and posterior margins; ventral margin groove may be present . . Scopelogadus mizolepis mizolepis 133.13. 82 2b. Otolith discoid; colliculum homomorph, oval in shape; anterior margin of otolith notched; ventral margin groove absent . Scopelogadus beanii 133.12. 3a. Otolith triangular . Poromitra crass iceps 133.6. 3b. Otoliths approximately oval with papillae or points on ventral margin . 4 4a. Ventral margin of otolith with a single posterior papilla; sulcus angled postero-ventrally (c. 45°) . . Melamphaes simus 133.5. 4b. Ventral margin of otolith with anterior and posterior comers pointed or papillae-like; sulcus approximately horizontal or angled at 45° . 5 5a. Dorsal margin of otolith crenate; ventral margin of otolith with a papilla on anterior and posterior comers; posterior colliculum horizontal, straight and elongate; sulcus horizontal . . Sio nordenskjoldii 133.14 5b. Dorsal margin of otolith sinuate and entire; ventral margin pointed at anterior and posterior comers which may look like papillae; posterior colliculum curved and short; sulcus angled at 45° . . Poromitra megalops 133.7. Melamphaes simus, SSF No. 133.5 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout tropical/subtropical regions of At¬ lantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. Attains 29 mm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.35, 3.0 mm OD, 100, 235 mm SL), 0276H, 0278H; Indian Ocean; Id. AK. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flattened, slightly irregular with posterior papilla. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid, sulcus poorly defined, angled postero-ventrally at about 45°. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, rounded anterior and rod-like posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Un¬ differentiated but colliculi present. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent, groove may be present. Ventral depression: Absent, groove present near margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Poromitra crassiceps, SSF No. 133.6 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION : Throughout all oceans except Arctic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Attains 155 mm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.45 mm OD, 101 mm SL?), PEM 0967; locality unknown; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Approximately triangular. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised and slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Flat, approximately entire. Posterior margin: Notched and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, archaesulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph with square anterior colliculum and small, narrow, ridge-like posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus shallow. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed and straight. Crista inferior: Poorly under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Above crista superior, over anterior colliculum. Ventral depression: In antero- ventral comer fork. Rostrum: Large, broad and forked. Antiros¬ trum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow and angle wide. Poromitra megalops, SSF No. 133.7 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: In eastern Atlantic, Indo-Pacific and eastern equatorial Pacific. Attains 62 mm SL. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.4-2.45 mm OD, c. 36-c. 41 mm SL), PEM 3421 (SAM 28773), 3435 (SAM 28772), 3482 (SAM 28774); off Transkei; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded and sinuous; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and pointed at anterior and posterior comers (may be papillae), sculpture entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial (may appear mesial when uncoated), archae¬ sulcoid, angled dorso-ventrally at about 45°. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, with large anterior colliculum, posterior colliculum, low narrow and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No con¬ strictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent or poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent, shallow groove-like recess around entire otolith. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Anti- rostrum: Absent to minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Scopelogadus beanii, SSF No. 133.12 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: In Atlantic, southern Indian and western South Pacific oceans. Attains 122 mm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.05, 3.5 mm OD, 3487 = 45 mm SL), PEM 3487 (SAM 28766), 0875H; off Transkei (3487) and eastern Australia; Id. RM, PAH. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded, may be lobed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para- ostial, may appear mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, single large, oval colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Scopelogadus mizolepis mizolepis, SSF No. 133.13 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: In tropical Atlantic and Indian oceans to 20- 30°S, and in western and central tropical Pacific, where it inter¬ grades with S. mizolepis bispinosus , its eastern Pacific counterpart. Attains 94 mm SL. MATERIAL: 4/5 (1.55-2.7 mm OD, 56-65 mm SL), 0353H, 1328H, 0277H, 1330H; Indian Ocean; Id. AK. Otolith shape: Approximately circular. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly flattened and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, may appear mesial if uncoated, archaesul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single large colliculum, may be kidney-shaped. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constric¬ tions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista infe¬ rior: Absent or poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, may be a groove near margin. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to very small and rounded. Excisura: Nar¬ row, notch shallow, angle wide. Sio nordenskjoldii, SSF No. 133.14 PLATE 44 DISTRIBUTION: In south Atlantic and Indian Oceans south of 30°S; several records off South Africa; one record from North Pacific. Attains 1 15 mm SL. 83 MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.85 mm OD, c. 40 mm SL), PEM 3477 (SAM 28771); off Transkei; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregular with two papillae on anterior and posterior ‘comers’. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid, horizontal. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval, posterior rod-like. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Absent. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior colliculum, absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, ventral groove near margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. RONDELETIIDAE Nelson No. 240 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Discoid and small (c. 2.5 mm OD), archaesulcoid, opening mesial with no raised colliculum. Rondeletia loricata, SSF No. 136.1 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Three specimens from Cape coast. Uncom¬ mon; Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. Attains 1 1 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.5 mm OD, 94 mm TL), PEM 13133; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Poste¬ rior margin: Gently rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated and sulcus is a slight depression in the middle of the otolith. Ostio- caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal de¬ pression: Absent, although whole otolith is bowl-like. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. BARBOURISIIDAE Nelson No. 241 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otolith ir¬ regular, oblong and up to at least 5.3 mm OD. Archaesulcoid, mesial opening, with no raised colliculi. Barbourisia rufa, SSF No. 137.1 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Rare; Atlantic Ocean between 56°N and 35°S, Indian Ocean between 5°S and 12°S and Pacific Ocean between 45°N and 22 °S. Attains 33 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.3mmOD,274mmTL),PEM 13327; off Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Irregular oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Emargi- nate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Emarginate, rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, but sulcus is an elongate, oval depression with a deeper posterior ventral margin, anterior is poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Rounded and ridge-like in the posterior half, well developed anteriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed in the posterior, ab¬ sent in the anterior. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area com¬ pletely reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, area uneven. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ORDER ZEIFORMES NOTE: Descriptions of the otoliths of this Order were done after consideration of all the material in the collections. Interpretation of the otolith features differs from previous authors’ (e.g. Hecht and Hecht 1978) in that the sulcus is considered to include most of the depressed, central part of the otolith with the cristae being located on the broader parts of the otolith. Interpretations of the colliculum and the presence of the pseudocolliculum in these fishes also differs from previous interpretations. There are considerable differences in otolith structure of this order suggesting different lineages. MACRUROCYTTIDAE Nelson No. 244 (ZENIONTIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: A single species available. Otolith oval with two papillae on ventral margin, up to c. 4.4 mm OD. Sulcus archaesulcoid, pseudo-ostial or mesial opening, homomorph with anterior colliculum larger, pseudocolliculum present. Zenion hololepis, SSF No. 141.1 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Caribbean and eastern Atlantic; off Delagoa Bay, and two specimens from off Tanzania. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.05, 4.4 mm OD, 108, 112 mm TL), PEM 5048, 5049 (both RUSI 13785); off Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded with papillae at anterior and posterior “comers”, approx¬ imately entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial or mesial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Approximately homomorph (similar in shape, ante¬ rior larger). Pseudocolliculum: Present, low ridge. Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by colliculi. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ab¬ sent. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Anti¬ rostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ZEIDAE Nelson No. 245 Family characteristics: Otoliths either hour-glass or trilobate, up to c. 4 mm OD. Pseudo-archaesulcoid, openings ostio-caudal, homomorph or heteromorph with distinct, protruding colliculi and large, bulbous pseudocolliculum. Similarities exist between otoliths of some members of this family and the Oreosomatidae. Key la. Otolith shape hour-glass; ventral margin of otolith rounded, not notched (like Oreosomatidae) . . Cyttus trover si 138.2 lb. Otolith shape trilobate; ventral margin of otolith indented or notched and may be very irregular . 2 2a. Ventral margin of otolith deeply indented, usually irregular, with broad ventral lobes; sculpture of ventral margin irregular; usually sulcus completely horizontal; colliculi not flared dorsally .... Zeus capensis 138.4 2b. Ventral margin of otolith notched, with narrow ventral lobes; sculpture of margin entire or slightly irregular; sulcus not horizontal along its length; anterior colliculum flared dorsally . 3 3a. Dorsal margin of otolith entire and domed but not angled; anterior colliculum semi-circular, knob-like; posterior colliculum bluntly pointed . . Zenopsis conchifer 138.3 84 3b. Dorsal margin of otolith raised, slightly irregular to lobed, may be angled; anterior colliculum flatter, flared and ear-like; posterior colliculum acom-like . Zeusfaber 138.5. Cyttus traversi, SSF No. 138.2 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Ridge and off Cape Town to AlgoaBay; south coast of Australia and New Zealand. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.9 mm OD, 191 mm TL), PEM 14425 (RUSI 28328); Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin . Form: - Mesial uneven, - Lateral uneven. Dorsal margin: Approxi¬ mately flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched with finger-like projection at midpoint. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesul- coid. Colliculum: Homomorph with two colliculi. Pseudocolli- culum: Present, low ridge on bulge. Ostium and cauda: Are similar in shape and have low colliculi which extend as finger-like projections. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions (therefore pseudo-archaesulcoid). Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Well developed, rounded and uneven, on the flared ventral third of otolith. Dorsal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, area uneven. Rostrum: Broad and rounded, pseudo-rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Large and rounded, pseudo-antirostrum: Large and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep and angle wide, pseudo-excisura: Wide, notch deep and angle wide. Zenopsis conchifer, SSF No. 138.3 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay to Natal and north to India; eastern Atlantic, and off North and South America. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.6-2.8 mm OD, 421-495 mm TL), PEM 14703, 14704, 14702; Namibia; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Trilobate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial uneven, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Domed and rounded, not angled; sculpture, entire. Ventral mar¬ gin: Notched and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and entire with lobe of colliculum protruding into notch. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Approximately homomorph, two colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Present as bulge without ridge. Ostium and cauda: Not horizontal. Are similar, anterior colliculum broad, flared dorsally, rounded and knob-like, joined by a smooth intracollicular connection to posterior narrow, bluntly pointed colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:2.0, 1:1.1. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, narrow lobe, angled at 45°, as is pseudo-rostrum. Anti¬ rostrum: Very short, and broad or absent, as is pseudo-antiros¬ trum. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide, as is pseudo-excisura. Zeus capensis, SSF No. 138.4 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: St Helena Bay to Natal; endemic to this region. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 6/86(1 .4-2.9 mm OD, 92-314 mm TL), PEM 1 2646, 12673, 12196 (RUSI 28474), 13435, 12639, 12617; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Trilobate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial uneven, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Domed and rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Deeply indented to form two broad lobes, sculpture irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and entire with colliculum protruding into notch. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid and horizontal. Colliculum: Heteromorph; anterior is large and rounded, posterior is narrow and rod like. Pseudocolliculum: Elongate knob without ridge. Ostium and cauda: Horizontal, distinguishable only by colliculi, joined by smooth intracollicular connection. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Not constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:2.6, 1:1.4, 1:2.4, 1:1.9, 12196 damaged. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and lobed to irregular, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Absent or min¬ ute, as is pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide, as is pseudo-excisura. Zeusfaber, SSF No. 138.5 PLATE 45 DISTRIBUTION: Common along this entire coast and north to Kenya; Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic from Norway to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1.6-2.45 mm OD, 194-400 mm TL), PEM 15003 (RUSI 35575), 0272, 0142H; off Cape south coast and Transkei; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Trilobate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial uneven, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised, angled; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Notched to form two narrow lobes and entire. Posterior margin: Notched with colliculum protruding, entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-ar¬ chaesulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with large, flared, slightly rounded anterior colliculum and narrow acom-like poste¬ rior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Knob-like, not ridged. Ostium and cauda: Not horizontal. Distinguishable only by colli¬ culi which are joined by intracollicular connection. Ostium flares dorsally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and blunt lobe, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Absent to small and rounded as is pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle wide, as is pseudo-excisura. OREOSOMATIDAE Nelson No. 246 Family characteristics: Otoliths hour-glass shaped, up to c. 8 mm OD, pseudo-archaesulcoid, approximately homomorph, with ridge-like pseudocolliculum. Colliculi approximately rounded and raised, not narrow and rod-like (cf. Cyttus traversi 138.2). Crista superior with steep, grooved wall to colliculi. Similar in form to some Zeidae. NOTE: Considerable intraspecific and ontogenetic variation makes separation by key very difficult. Use of whole otoliths compared with whole reference specimens may help to resolve difficulties in prey identification. Allocyttus verrucosus, SSF No. 139.2 PLATE 46 DISTRIBUTION: From Walvis Bay to Mozambique channel; also known from Walvis Ridge, Gulf of Guinea, off Mauritania, west¬ ern Atlantic and Australia. Attains at least 38 cm. MATERIAL: 6/57 (2.15-7.7 mm OD, 109-360 mm TL), PEM 13878, 14940 (RUSI 35561), 14938 (RUSI 35593), 13838, 14668, 13893, [14475 (RUSI 31446), 14941 (RUSI 35561), 14939 (RUSI 35593)]; west coast and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial uneven, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and dentate becoming irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo- archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph becoming homomorph, indented and spectacle-like (c. 7 mm OD). Pseudocolliculum: Present as ridge on bulge. Ostium and cauda: Distinguishable only by colliculi, which may be joined by an intracollicular con¬ nection in smaller otoliths. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No 85 constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:2.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.6, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in large otoliths (>3.5 mm OD), poorly developed in small otoliths. Crista inferior: Ridge-like in large otoliths (>c. 3.5 mm OD), poorly developed in small otoliths. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded or sharply rounded, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Large and rounded, as is pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Usually wide, notch deep and angle varied, as in pseudo-excisura. Neocyttus rhomboidalis, SSF No. 139.3 PLATE 46 DISTRIBUTION: From Walvis Ridge to Cape, also off Argentina and Australia. Attains 34 cm. MATERIAL: 6/65 (2.6-4.6 mm OD, 1 17-232 mm SL), PEM 9 1 78, 13846, 9047 (RUSI 37520), 13845, 13844, 12261, [9057, 9059, 9060 (all RUSI 37515), 9052, 9053 (all RUSI 37520)]; west coast and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Raised; sculpture, trilobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and dentate to irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Collicu- lum: Approximately homomorph, oval and slightly bulbous, ante¬ rior may be flared dorsally. Pseudocolliculum: Rod-like . Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by colliculi. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:1.5, 1:2.1, 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:2.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Rounded and well developed with grooves down to colliculi. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Shallow depression above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded or sharply rounded, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Large and rounded, as is the pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute, as is pseudo-excisura. Oreosoma atlanticum, SSF No. 139.4 PLATE 46 DISTRIBUTION: Around South Africa between 30° and 35°S, and off Australia. Attains 21 cm. MATERIAL: 3/20 (2.5-3.4 mm OD, 140-184 mm TL), PEM 11406 (RUSI 28331), 1 1402 (RUSI 28330), 1 1404, [14942, 14943 (both RUSI 35595)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral irregular. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and highly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Approxi¬ mately homomorph, anterior is rounded, posterior is smaller and oval. Pseudocolliculum: Raised and uneven. Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by the colliculi. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.7, 1:2.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge, steep, deeply grooved wall to colliculi. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate and shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Broad and rounded, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Large and rounded, as is pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch deep and angle acute, as is pseudo-excisura. Pseudocyttus maculatus , SSF No. 139.5 PLATE 46 DISTRIBUTION: From Walvis Bay to the Cape; also Walvis Ridge, western Atlantic, New Zealand and Southern Ocean. At¬ tains at least 50 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (2.5-4.2mmOD, 154-365 mm TL), PEM 12072, 12071, 14587; west coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral irregular. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded with shallow, irregular indentations. Posterior margin: Notched and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Present, as low bulge. Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by colliculi. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:2.1, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed with grooves to colliculi. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Oval depression above crista. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and rounded, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Large and rounded or sharply rounded, as is pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch deep and wide, as is pseudo-excisura. GRAMMICOLEPIDIDAE Nelson No. 247 Family characteristics: A single species available. Otoliths hour¬ glass shaped, pseudo-archaesulcoid with ostio-caudal openings, homomorph with indented colliculi and distinct pseudocolliculum. Ventral margin keeled and sharply rounded. Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi, SSF No. 140.2 PLATE 46 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay to Natal; Atlantic and Indo-West Pacific oceans. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/10 (1. 3-2.5 mm OD, 49-97 mm TL), PEM 13433, 14968 (RUSI 35560), 12796 (RUSI 28329), 12129, [15364 (RUSI 38211)]; west and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Keeled to sharply rounded and irregular to serrate. Posterior margin: Notched and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Homomorph, two indented colliculi, similar sized. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Low knob with ridge. Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by colliculi. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.6, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Absent. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded, as is pseudo-rostrum. Antirostrum: Broad and blunt, similar to pseudo-antirostrum. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide, as is pseudo-excisura. CAPROIDAE Nelson No. 248 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths ovate to trian¬ gular, up to c. 7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings, heteromorph with indistinct colliculi, ostium bulbous. Antigonia rubescens, SSF No. 162.1 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Natal to Japan. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (5.1-6.6 mm OD, 89-1 12 mm TL), PEM 14984, 14982, 14981, 14983, 14980 (all RUSI 35599); Transkei; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Ovate to triangular, shape variable. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: V-shaped depression behind ostium. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular, lobed or notched. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded, flattened or angular and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded to angled and straight, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi, may be indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Bulbous ventrally and deeper than cauda. Cauda: Straight, tip not distinctly closed, approximately horizontal. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.4, 1:1.7, 1:1.5, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda but absent over tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal de¬ pression: Large and oval becoming deeper with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, distinct groove in large otoliths parallel to 86 margin. Rostrum: Small, broad and sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. ORDER PEGASI FORMES PEGASIDAE Nelson No. 253 Family characteristics: Only a single species available. Otoliths discoid and small (c. 1.8 mm OD) with undifferentiated sulcus, archaesulcoid. No raised colliculi. Eurypegasus draconis, SSF No. 142.1 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific to Algoa Bay, rare in our area. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1.35-1.8 mm OD, 68-92 mm TL), PEM 14329 (RUSI 30386), 1212H, 14540 (RUSI 31371); Mauritius and Eilat; Id. MIS, PCH, DF. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ab¬ sent. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and uneven. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough and grooved dorso-ventrally. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, area may have flattened edge. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ORDER SYNGNATHIFORMES AULOSTOMIDAE Nelson No. 254 Family characteristics: One species. Otoliths rectangular up to c. 2.8 mm OD, homosulcoid, ostio-caudal openings. No raised colliculi. Aulostomus chinensis , SSF No. 143.1 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-West Pacific region, ex¬ tends south to East London. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.65, 2.75 mm OD, 690, 710 mm TL), 0775H, PEM 0499; Cape east coast and Sodwana Bay; Id. MMS. Otolith shape: Rectangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ostial de¬ pression flared, deepening posteriorly. Cauda: Narrow but flared posteriorly, deeper anteriorly, may have circular pit in cauda. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: Bridge-like. Crista supe¬ rior: Ridge-like, broad over collum, narrows distally. Crista inferior: Absent. Dorsal depression: Triangular deep depression above collum. Ventral depression: Absent, area very uneven. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle wide or acute. FISTULARIIDAE Nelson No. 255 Family characteristics: Based on one species; elongate and rec¬ tangular fusiform shape up to c. 7 mm OD. Otoliths very delicate and transparent. Ostio-caudal openings. Rostrum and antirostrum elongate, tapered and pointed. Fistularia commersonii, SSF No. 144.1 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread Indo- Pacific species; south to MosselBay. Attains 150 cm. MATERIAL: 3/19 (3.85-6.28 mm OD, 960-1200 mm TL, 1095- 1310 mm TL (to end of prolonged middle rays), PEM 15716, 15718, 15712; Eilat; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rectangular to fusiform. Thickness: Thin and transparent. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, crenate and slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched or bilobed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very elongate, V-shaped. Cauda: Short, narrow, slightly flared poste¬ riorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral con¬ strictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.2. Collum: Low and broad. Crista superior: Narrow ridge over ostium, well devel¬ oped over cauda. Crista inferior: Narrow, low ridge under ostium, high ridge under collum, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, dorsal area reduced. Ventral de¬ pression: Elongate and narrow, ventral area very reduced. Ros¬ trum: Elongate, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Elongate, tapered and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. MACRORHAMPHOSIDAE Nelson No. 256 Family characteristics: Otolith hour-glass shaped up to c. 1 .4 mm OD, heterosulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Homomorph with anterior colliculum but structure complex. Otoliths reminiscent of Zeidae. Key la. Anterior colliculum bulging . . Macroramphosus scolopax 147.2 lb. Anterior colliculum depressed and reduced . Notopogon macrosolen 147.4 Macroramphosus scolopax, SSF No. 147.2 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Worldwide in tropical/subtropical waters; lo¬ cally from Table Bay to Durban. Attains 19 cm. MATERIAL: 2/35 (1.2, 1.25 mm OD, 120, 137 mm TL), PEM 12860 (RUSI 28336), 12857 (RUSI 28337), [12678 (RUSI 34090)]; Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial irregular, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Domed, narrow and rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notched posteriorly and irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single raised anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared anteriorly, filled by protruding colliculum. Cauda: Nar¬ row, U-shaped in cross section. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed, indistinct posteriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed, rounded and bulged, absent under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Above crista, may be deep. Ventral depression: Absent, area flattened. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Notopogon macrosolen, SSF No. 147.4 PLATE 47 DISTRIBUTION: Northwest of Cape Town to Saldanha Bay. Attains 33 cm. MATERIAL: 4/13 (0.75-1.4 mm OD, 53-228 mm SL), PEM 12066, 12065, 11103, 1 1 105; Cape west coast; Id. PC. 87 Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial irregular, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Domed, narrow and rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notched towards posterior and irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Emarginate and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, small, low colliculum in front of ostium. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Deep posteriorly, colliculum bulges anteriorly. Cauda: Narrow and U-shaped in cross section. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Not constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.5, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, but step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed and rounded. Crista inferior: Well developed and bulged. Dorsal depression: Shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent; but area flat and grooved below bulge. Rostrum: Large broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle usually wide. SYNGNATHIDAE Nelson No. 259 Family characteristics: Based on single species; otoliths minute (<1 mm OD), approximately discoid. Heterosulcoid with no raised colliculi, opening ostial. Dorsal and ventral depressions joined and horse-shoe shaped. Trachyrhamphus bicoarctatus, SSF No. 145.31 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: From Durban northwards to Kenya; also north¬ ern Red Sea and Arabian Gulf to Mariana Ids. Attains at least 39 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.4 mm OD, 375 mm TL), PEM 15744; Eilat; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture approximately entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Flattened and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, cristae penetrate excisura. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, straight and moderately deep. Cauda: Short, shallow and rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge- like over ostium, poor over cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium, poor under cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep and horseshoe shaped, continuous with ventral depression. Rostrum: Minute and pointed. Antirostrum: Min¬ ute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, shallow angle acute. ORDER DACTYLOPTERIFORMES DACTYLOPTERI DAE Nelson No. 260 Family characteristics: Otoliths may be discoid as juveniles, oval to fusiform with growth. Up toe. 5mmOD. Heterosulcoid, ostial openings, heteromorph with low or depressed colliculi. Cristae either poorly developed or well developed and ridge-like. Raised area below crista, ventral margin depressed. Key 1 a. Otolith oval; crista superior well developed; cauda short, oval, very slightly flexed and shallow at tip; colliculi depressed . . Dactyloptena orientalis 159.1 1 b. Otolith discoid (as juvenile) becoming fusiform; crista superior well developed to ridge -like over ostium; cauda elongate, narrow and flexed at tip; colliculi nodular but low . Dactyloptena peterseni 159.2 Dactyloptena orientalis , SSF No. 159.1 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: Port Elizabeth northwards; east to central Pa¬ cific. Attains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (1.25-1.65 mm OD, 48-61 mm TL), PEM 4270 & 4271 (both RUSI 12782), 0763; off Cape south coast; Id. MIS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slighdy rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, two depressed colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares slightly dorsally. Cauda: Oval, slightly ventrally flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slighdy dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Very low, ostium and cauda depressed. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped anterior ostium to mid-cauda, poor elsewhere. Crista infe¬ rior: Well developed under neck, absent elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent or shallow depression. Ventral depression: Absent, margin broadly depressed. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Dactyloptena peterseni , SSF No. 159.2 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: East London to DelagoaBay; also across north¬ ern Indian Ocean to Japan. Benthic, adults usually trawled at 50-200 m. Attains c. 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (1. 4-5.0 mm OD, 170-310 mm TL), PEM 7308 (RUSI 28488), 14809 (RUSI 31421), 9331 (RUSI 37491); Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Discoid (c. 1 .4 mm OD) becoming fusiform (c. 3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slighdy concave. Dorsal margin: Slighdy rounded; sculpture, lobed crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slighdy rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, two very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate, flared dorsally. Cauda: Narrow and flexed ventrally with cauda deepening posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slighdy dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like over ostium and anterior cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Variable, poor or well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Small, shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Mar¬ gin depressed under ostium and caudal tip (>2 mm OD). Rostrum: Moderate, sharply rounded and blunt. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. ORDER SCORPAENIFORMES SCORPAENIDAE Nelson No. 262 Family characteristics: A large family with varied otoliths. Otolith shape oval to fusiform. Heterosulcoid with ostial or ostio- caudal openings. Heteromorph, homomorph or lacking raised colliculi. Key la. Otoliths broad and oval or rounded . 2 lb. Otoliths moderately narrow, elongate oval to oblong . 5 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith well rounded; ventral margin flat or not well rounded; dorsal depression absent or very small . 3 88 2b. Dorsal and ventral margins of otolith well rounded; dorsal depression relatively large and fan shaped or oval . 4 3a. Otolith rounded-ovate to fusiform; rostrum broad; sulcus opening ostio-caudal; sulcus relatively deep, heterosulcoid and approximately in centre of otolith . Taenianotus triacanthus 149.41 3b. Otolith oval to rounded-triangle; rostrum moderate and pointed; sulcus with ostial opening; sulcus deep, heterosulcoid and in lower third of otolith, sulcus angled at about 10° off horizontal . . Trachyscorpia capensis 149.44 3c. Otolith rounded ovate; rostrum broad and bluntly pointed; sulcus relatively shallow with ostial opening, pseudo-archaesulcoid; colliculi distinct and heteromorph . Setarches guentheri 149.45 4a. Anterior and posterior ends of otolith upwardly pointed; ostium indistinct, its dorsal wall flares dorsally; cauda runs diagonally, indistinctly closed at tip; sulcus at about 10° off horizontal . . Phenacoscorpius adenensis 149.17 4b. Anterior and posterior ends of otolith pointed horizontally; ostium not distinctly flared; cauda straight, caudal tip joins ventral groove . Neomerinthe nielseni 149.14 4c. Anterior end of otolith elongate and pointed horizontally, posterior less pointed and horizontal; ostium elongate and horizontal, slightly flared dorsally; sulcus horizontal in centre of otolith; cauda slightly flexed and deeper at tip . . Helicolenus dactylopterus 149.42 5a. Cauda not distinctly closed, may be flexed . 6 5b. Cauda distinctly closed . 7 6a. Sulcus horizontal with flexed cauda, indistinctly closed, joins indistinct groove near margin; ostium deep and elongate . Sebastapistes strongia 149.39 6b. Sulcus horizontal with caudal tip flexed, indistinctly closed or joining groove to margin; ostium deep, flares slightly dorsally . . Sebastapistes cyanostigma 149.37 6c. Sulcus angled with caudal tip not closed, joins ventral depression or groove; ostium margins indistinct . Pterois antennata 149.7 6d. Sulcus approximately horizontal with cauda indistinctly closed, may join ventral depression at caudal tip; ostium flared dorsally but its dorsal margin indistinct . Sebastes capensis 149.43 6e. Sulcus shallow, indistinct and slightly angled with indistinctly closed cauda may join broad ventral groove; ostium poorly defined, flared dorsally . . Pterois radiata 149.10 7a. Ostium elongate and usually narrow . 8 7b. Ostium short, broad or oval . 9 8a. Otolith narrow and elongate fusiform; rostrum elongate and pointed; cauda elongate, almost reaching posterior margin . Scorpaena scrofa 149.21 8b. Otolith approximately oblong to fusiform; rostrum may be pointed; cauda short ending well short of posterior margin . Scorpaenopsis venosa 149.36 8c. Otolith oblong; rostrum large and sharply rounded; cauda short and flexed along its length, ending well short of posterior wall . . Scorpaenopsis gibbosa 149.32 8d. Otolith approximately oblong; rostrum short and pointed; cauda short and deep, slight flexion at tip, ends well short of posterior margin . . Scorpaenodes parvipinnis 149.28 9a. Otolith oval with blunt posterior margin; distinct anterior colliculum; ostium flared dorsally and ventrally . Minous coccineus 149.3 9b. Anterior colliculum oval, may be depressed . 10 10a. Otolith oval; ostium oval, anterior colliculum depressed; dorsal depression shallow, fan-like; cauda short and slightly flexed; crista inferior poorly developed . Parapterois heterurus 149.6 10b. Otolith oblong; ostium short and broad, anterior colliculum slightly raised margins, depressed in centre; cauda flares near tip; crista inferior ridge-like and distinct under cauda .... Synanceia verrucosa 149.46 10c. Otolith oblong, becomes fusiform; ostium flared with large, indistinct colliculum; cauda short; crista inferior poorly developed . Pterois miles 149.8 lOd. Otolith oval; ostium approximately oval, filled with low colliculum; cauda narrow, slightly flexed and flared at tip; sulcus may appear homosulcoid; crista inferior well developed in neck area only . Apistus carinatus 149.1 lOe. Otolith oval; ostium slightly flared dorsally; cauda short, slightly flared dorsally; posterior margin of otolith may be notched; dorsal depression oval and shallow; crista inferior poorly developed . . Dendrochirus brachypterus 149.4 Apistus carinatus, SSF No. 149.1 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: Natal northwards; coastal areas of Indo-West Pacific. Attains about 18 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.0 mm OD, 82 mm TL), PEM 0408; Durban fish market; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly serrate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, but may appear homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph with two extremely low colliculi, may be fused. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, filled with low colliculum. Cauda: Narrower, slightly flexed and flared at poste¬ rior, containing small colliculum near tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like in midsection, be¬ coming less developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly de¬ veloped below ostium and caudal tip, well developed in neck area. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, shallow ventral groove near margin. Rostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Minous coccineus, SSF No. 149.3 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: From Durban northwards; also from Red Sea, Arabian Sea and eastward to Gulf of Thailand. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.4 mm OD, 50 mm TL), PEM 0227; off Tugela mouth; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, flattened and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very low fused colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. 89 Ostium: Short, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Slightly flexed near tip, closed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly constricted dorso-ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in the anterior and neck, poorly developed towards posterior. Crista inferior: Ab¬ sent under ostium and posterior cauda, poorly developed in neck area. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval above anterior cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, groove parallel to ventral margin, penetrates ostial ventral margin. Rostrum: Broad, short and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Dendrochirus brae hyp terus , SSF No. 149.4 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: From Transkei (32°S) northward to Red Sea and east to central Pacific. Attains about 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (3.75-5.4 mm OD, 86-130 mm TL), PEM 15389 (RUSI 40575), 1054H, 1289H, 1288H; Bazaruto and Gulf Aqaba; Id. PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded to rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to rounded and may be lobed or digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Approximately ho- momorph, depressed colliculi with raised edges. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Short and approximately straight, sulcus angled ventrally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed (c. 3.8 mm OD) becoming poor (>4.5 mm OD) above anterior ostium, ridge- like over neck, may extend over cauda to tip, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poor along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large and very shallow above crista . Ventral depression: Absent, broad groove near margin; may be a ventrally angled groove behind caudal tip. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small (c. 3.8 mm OD) becoming minute to absent (>4.5 mm OD). Excisura: Mod¬ erate, notch shallow, angle acute (<4 mm OD) becoming wide. Parapterois heterurus, SSF No. 149.6 PLATE 48 DISTRIBUTION: Natal coast northwards, across Indian Ocean to western Pacific. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.28 mm OD, 220 mm TL), PEM 0240; PEO; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to serrate. Ventral margin: Rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Blunt and ir¬ regular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, oval anterior colliculum and elongate posterior, both depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, containing colliculum. Cauda: Short, narrower and ap¬ proximately straight or slightly flexed, not open. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed above the ostium and cauda tip, low ridge over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow over collum, area grooved. Ventral depression: Absent, margin grooved. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or irregular. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Pterois antennata, SSF No. 149.7 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: Natal northwards and to central Pacific. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.5, 4.0 mm OD, 77, 1 10 mm TL), PEM 14520 (RUSI 31368), 15622; Mauritius, Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, tip may be down-flexed and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid, angled. Collicu¬ lum: Homomorph, single, indistinct anterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Poorly defined, margins approximately parallel. Cauda: Short, slightly narrower and tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poor over ostium, well developed to low ridge and broad over anterior cauda, poor to absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove penetrates cauda. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Pterois miles, SSF No. 149.8 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: Port Alfred northwards to Red Sea and eastern Indian Ocean. Attains at least 31 cm. MATERIAL: 4/12 (4.3-8.5 mm OD, 241-372 mm TL), PEM 14791 (RUSI 31451), 6593 (RUSI 31617), 14219, 6471; Comoro Ids, Natal, Algoa Bay and PEO; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong, becoming fusiform but highly variable, may have deeply notched anterior and posterior margins. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, very ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Rounded to flattened, very irregular and variable, lobed, serrate or digitate. Posterior margin: Blunt be¬ coming notched to digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi which become depressed in centre with growth. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared with large, indistinct colliculum. Cauda: Approximately straight and narrower, dorsal margin flexed slightly, closed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and indistinct. Ventral depression: Absent, broad margin groove. Posterior caudal depression present. Ros¬ trum: Broad, may be elongate and shaiply rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Varies, may be absent to large and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch varies from absent to deep and angle acute. Pterois radiata, SSF No. 149.10 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: SodwanaBay northwards and to central Pacific. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (5.3-6.22 mm OD, 118-175 mm TL), PEM 14261, 1002H, 1290H; Comoro Ids and Gulf of Aqaba; Id. PCH, TH, DF. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, slightly angled. Colliculum: Homomorph, only very low anterior colliculum vis¬ ible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, oval and poorly defined. Cauda: Similar width, approximately straight, poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in the neck area, poor to absent elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed to absent 90 along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, has broad ventral groove near mar¬ gin. Rostrum: Broad, short and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Neomerinthe nielseni , SSF No. 149.14 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: Several specimens trawled off Durban. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.9-7.5 mm OD, 129-1 35 mm TL), PEM 14992, 14990, 14991 (all RUSI 35558); off Transkei; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid but poorly defined. Collicu- lum: No raised colliculi visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly wider than cauda, shallow anteriorly. Cauda: Straight, tip closure indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally very slightly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, ridge¬ like in mid-section, well developed over posterior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus but poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Fan-shaped and distinct over anterior cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, deep, broad groove near margin meets ostium and caudal tip walls. Rostrum: Small and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to minute and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Phenacoscorpius adenensis , SSF No. 149.17 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: A rare deep-water species known from 32°S and near Buffalo River. Attains at least 10 cm. MATERIAL: 4/7 (3.45-4.45 mm OD, 54-79 mm TL), PEM 3499, 3502, 3500, 3504; off Transkei; Id. GJBR, PAH. Otolith shape: Oval, pointed tips. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and sinuate. Posterior margin: Rounded or pointed to dorsum, entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear mesial, heterosulcoid, indistinct and angled. Colliculum: Homosulcoid, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally, very shallow and poorly defined. Cauda: Runs diagonally, deeper than ostium, indistinctly closed. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, ridge-like in midsection, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like in mid-section poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and fan-shaped. Ventral depression: Absent, may be very shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch absent. Scorpaena scrofa, SSF No. 149.21 PLATE 49 DISTRIBUTION: Algoa Bay to off Natal. South African species thought to be the same as population in Mediterranean and eastern North Atlantic. Attains c. 30cm. MATERIAL: 5/27 (9.6-16.5 mm OD, 204-459 mm TL), PEM 11345 (RUSI 28341), 12468, 12469, 8277, 6779, [15004, 15005, 15006 (all 3 RUSI 35607)]; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to dentate or serrate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular, dentate or serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Approximately horizontal, elongate, narrow, open¬ ing along rostrum. Cauda: Elongate, slightly narrower, slightly flexed near tip and closed, almost reaching posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like in neck region, poorly or well devel¬ oped elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: In midsection, oval, varies in depth. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin, may be deep. Rostrum: Long and pointed . Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Scorpaenodes parvipinnis , SSF No. 149.28 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards; throughout Indo-West Pa¬ cific. Attains c. 13 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.1, 5.64 mm OD, 98, 103 mmTL), PEM 14279 (RUSI 30845), 2763; Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids; Id. GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, extremely low anterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oblong and elongate, deep¬ est dorsally. Cauda: Short and deep, approximately horizontal but slight ventral flexion at tip, ending well short of posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent but area between ostium and cauda slightly raised. Crista superior: Well developed along mid-sulcus, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval in centre. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove at least the length of sulcus. Rostrum: Short and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Scorpaenopsis gibbosa, SSF No. 14932 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Transkei northwards; Indian Ocean and Red Sea. Attains at least 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (5 .06-7 .9 mm OD, 138-226 mmTL), PEM 2319, 6650, 2320; ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flattened or slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular or lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and very irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded irregular to very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Short, flexed along its length, ending well short of posterior wall, tip closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: May be low collum or step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, well developed becoming ridge-like and uneven over cauda with growth. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oblong and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove near margin in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded or absent. Excisura: Moder¬ ate, notch very shallow and wide. Scorpaenopsis venosa , SSF No. 149.36 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards and scattered localities in Indo-Pacific. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (4.5-7.1 mm OD, 95-173 mm TL), PEM 8432, 8162 (RUSI 34059), 6739; off Durban and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. 91 Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular to very irregu¬ lar with growth (c. 7 mm OD). Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular to very irregular with growth. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct, depressed anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate, narrow, extends along rostrum. Cauda: Straight, ventrally flexed at tip, closed, ending well short of posterior margin. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed to low uneven ridge over cauda and posterior ostium, very poor over extremes. Crista inferior: Absent under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Small and shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch absent deepening with growth, angle wide. Sebastapistes cyanostigma , SSF No. 149.37 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Port Alfred northwards to Red Sea and east to central Pacific. Attains c. 7 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (3.0, 3.4 mm OD, 59, 62 mm TL), PEM 2764, 14272 (RUSI 311 16); Comoro Ids and Sodwana; Id. PCH, MMS. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin; Slightly rounded and slightly irregular with notch under caudal tip. Posterior margin: Blunt or sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial (may appear ostio-caudal), heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Slight ventral flexion, ends near margin notch, indistinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed except at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oblong. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow and indistinct ventral groove and post-caudal trough to margin. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Sebastapistes strongia , SSF No. 14939 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Transkei northwards; widespread in Indo-Pa- cific. Attains c. 6 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.5 mm OD, 42 mm TL), PEM 8414 (RUSI 341 18); Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi, floor of ostium de¬ pressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and V-shaped, elongate, slightly flared. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed and poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Col¬ lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to flexion, poor at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed in mid-section, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression; Shallow above crista. Ventral depression; Absent, indistinct groove near margin. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Taenianotus triacanthus, SSF No. 149.41 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards and to central Pacific. At¬ tains c. 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.3 mm OD, 90 mm TL), PEM 14578 (RUSI 31442); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate to fusiform. Otolith thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, in¬ distinct, low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, extends into rostrum. Cauda: Deeper, flares be fore narrowing to margin opening. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Col¬ lum: Distinct, to half height of cristae. Crista superior: Well developed over neck and anterior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Narrow ridge under ostium, broader under cauda. Dorsal depression: Small and shallow behind antirostrum. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, area uneven, papilliform. Rostrum: Large, blunt and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Large, notch shallow, angle wide. Helicolenus dactylopterus, SSF No. 149.42 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay to Natal; also throughout Atlantic, although subspecies recognised. Attains at least 31 cm. MATERIAL: 6/240 (6.0-14.8 mm OD, 130430 mm TL), PEM 11379, 14583 (RUSI 31383), 7812 (RUSI 28340), 7811 (RUSI 28339), 12069, 12067; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to rounded fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular lobes. Ventral margin; Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin; Bluntly or sharply rounded and irregularly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very indistinct anterior collic¬ ulum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and horizontal, flared dorsally, floor raised below antirostrum. Cauda: Horizontal, slight ventral flexion at tip, deeper at posterior. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:0.8, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along length of sulcus, very poor over extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed under cauda, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Large, oval and distinct. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Sebastes capensis, SSF No. 149.43 PLATE 50 DISTRIBUTION: From Cape to Saldanha Bay. Also occurs at Gough and Tristan da Cunha islands and possibly off southern and western South America. Attains at least 37 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (9.9, 12.5 mm OD, 179, 238 mm SL), PEM 12090, 12119; Cape west coast; Id. PC. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, may be angled. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Ventral margin horizontal, flared dorsally, deeper posteriorly. Cauda: Horizontal, straight with rounded tip, in¬ distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over cauda and post- 92 erior ostium, poor at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed under cauda, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Large, oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, broad, very shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Small or minute, rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Trachyscorpia capensis, SSF No. 149.44 PLATE 51 DISTRIBUTION: Cape to St Helena Bay, the same or similar species in southern Australia. Attains c. 35 cm. MATERIAL: 3/50 (9.6-14.5 mm OD, 190-347 mm TL), PEM 14070, 14075, 14071; Cape west coast; Id. PAH, GJBR, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval to rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded to raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular to very irregular anteriorly. Posterior margin: Pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, in lower third of otolith, may be angled. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Shallow, becoming deep with growth, angled at 10-20°. Cauda: Square tip, becoming very deep with growth. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.5, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Ridge-like along the entire sulcus; in small otoliths (c. 12 mm), well developed. Crista inferior: High ridge under cauda (cup- like), ridge-like under ostium; poorly developed in small otoliths (c. 12 mm OD). Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, area rough. Rostrum: Moderate, pointed and irregular. Antirostrum: Small to absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Setarches guentheri, SSF No. 149.45 PLATE 51 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs nearly worldwide in warm seas. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (4.8-10.12 mm OD, 97-208 mm TL), PEM 15029 (RUSI 35526), 5020, 5021 & 5019 (all 3 RUSI 13998); Kenya and Cape south coast; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape; Rounded ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded, raised; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid (differentiated only by colliculi). Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior large and oval, posterior small and round, may be fused. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Differentiated only by colliculi, sulcus shallow. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Poorly developed anteriorly, low ridge posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and bluntly pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Variable - small to large and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle varies. Synanceia verrucosa , SSF No. 149.46 PLATE 51 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and tropical Indo-Pacific, south to Durban. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 3/10 (5 .0-8.9 mm OD, 150-325 mm TL), PEM 9641 (RUSI 37495), 14568, 14566; Mauritius and ORI; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to digitate. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt or sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph with a low anterior colliculum, depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and broad, deeper than cauda, slightly flared. Cauda: Approxi¬ mately horizontal, slight flare and flexion at closed tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, well developed over cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like to crested under anterior cauda, well developed poste¬ riorly. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Shallow depression under crista. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch ab¬ sent. SCORPAENIDAE Nelson No 262 (TETRAROGIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otolith oval, small (5.5 mm OD). Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and depressed, bulbous ventrally. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly flexed ventrally, tip poorly defined. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, may be a step up to cauda. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to flexion, tip poorly defined. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large, shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or very small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow if present, angle varies. Howella sherborni, SSF No. 176.2 PLATE 56 DISTRIBUTION: Off Cape Town to Natal; widely distributed in all three major oceans. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 3/8(4.0-4.6mmOD, 105-1 14 mm TL), PEM 14331, 13247, 13206; Cape west coast; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Rounded ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: -Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or angu¬ lar, serrate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irreg¬ ular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium and caudal tip, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Crescent¬ shaped and very shallow. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Neoscombrops annectens, SSF No. 176.3 PLATE 56 DISTRIBUTION: Common off Natal and southern Mozambique. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 4/24 (3.6-6.6mmOD, 67-2 10 mm TL), PEM 12962, 11350 (RUSI 28367), 12891, 12964, [14923, 14924, 14932, 14933, 14934 (all five RUSI 35601)]; Mozambique and southern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Emarginate anteriorly, raised posteriorly; sculpture, cre¬ nate or lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded or flat and angled anteriorly and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and cre¬ nate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, rod-like colliculum penetrates excisura, posterior indistinct and indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep, reduced with protruding colliculum. Cauda: Straight and narrow, strongly flexed in posterior third. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 11350 broken, 1:1.5, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Short ridge under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow and large. Ventral depression: Deep and circular below neck, margin depressed under caudal tip. Ros¬ trum: Including colliculum, large, broad and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Moderate or wide, notch deep, angle acute. Synagrops japonicus, SSF No. 176.5 PLATE 56 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed from South Africa to Ha¬ waii. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/44 (4.3-6.8 mm OD, 105-245 mm TL), PEM 1 1 607 (RUSI 28368), 1 2625, 14416 (RUSI 34073), 14420, [11354 (RUSI 34064), 12535 (RUSI 34078), 12894 (RUSI 34062), 14445 (RUSI 28365), 15018-15024 (RUSI 35605)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and oblique anteriorly, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior colliculum, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: 100 Absent. Ostium: Oval, with raised protruding colliculum, deep at edges. Cauda: Almost horizontal, angled dorsally with hook- like flexion, widening posteriorly. Neck area poorly defined with dor¬ sal bulge. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/ cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:2.0. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, ridge-like from neck to flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow in small (c. 4.3 mm OD), absent in large otoliths. Ventral depression: Shal¬ low depression under neck, margin depressed under caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Synagrops microlepis, SSF No. 176.6 PLATE 56 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Luanda to Walvis Bay. At¬ tains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.6, 7.1 mmOD, 1 12, 120mmTL), PEM 14455 (RUSI 31378), 14454 (RUSI 31380); off Cunene River mouth; Id. RWL, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded or slightly raised; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior colliculum, posterior colliculum has ventral edge raised, depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, narrows anteriorly, sulcus approximately horizontal. Cauda: Straight, very slight ventral curve, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/ cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over anterior ostium, ridge-like from ostium along cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. SERRANIDAE Nelson No. 284 Family characteristics: Oblong to ovate or fusiform otolith shape. Up to at least 23 mm. All species heterosulcoid with ostial opening but some have cauda which is not distinctly closed, therefore may appear ostio-caudal. All heteromorph but anterior colliculum low and some have posterior colliculum which is barely visible. Ostium usually oval to elongate with cauda flexed. The three subfamilies may be distinguished by the following: Anthiinae (described here are the genera: Acanthistius, Anthias , Holanthias, Nemanthias ) generally have small otoliths up to c. 14 mm OD. Epinephelinae (described here are the genera: Aethaloperca, Cephalopholis, Cromileptes, Epinephelus, Plectropomus, Vari¬ ola) are generally large with at least one member of this group up to 23 mm OD. Characteristic of this group is the crista inferior which is ridge-like from the flexion to the caudal tip. There is often a raised area or plateau between the sulcus and the ventral margin of the otolith. Serraninae (described here is the genus Serranus ), are small, up to c. 8 mm OD, the crista inferior is not ridge-like under the flexion. NOTE: No key provided. The species within the subfamilies are similar. The subtle differences would best be distinguished by direct comparison with whole voucher otoliths. Characters of particular use to differentiate the species are; shape of ostium and cauda, depth of sulcus and degree of flexion of caudal tip. Acanthistius sebastoides , SSF No. 166.1 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: From Namibia to Maputo. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 6/68 (2.55-11.2 mm OD, 46-267 mm TL), PEM 5200, 1877 (RUSI 9256), 9799, 5810, 4446, 5570; AlgoaBay and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to crenate. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Angled to sharply rounded and notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior very indistinct, indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate, extends onto rostrum. Cauda: Ventrally flexed near end, caudal tip may be close to ventral margin in large otoliths. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped, poor at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, may be anterior depres¬ sion over and continuous with ostium. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, groove variable, between ostium and caudal tip, close to margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. Acanthistius sp., SSF No. 166.2 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: This undescribed species is known from a specimen from Port Alfred, possibly occurs in deeper water than A. sebastoides, apparently rare. Attains at least 23 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10 mm OD, 225 mm IL), PEM 7758 (RUSI 28357); ORI; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flattened, notched posteriorly and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded becoming oblique to sharply rounded and crenate. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior extremely indistinct, slightly rugose de¬ pressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, opens to dorsal depression and dorsal wall very poorly developed. Cauda: Straight, strongly flexed near tip, caudal tip close to ventral margin in large otoliths. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, low step up to cauda. Crista superior: Absent over anterior ostium well developed or ridge-like over cauda and after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval behind antirostrum, continuous with ostium. Ventral de¬ pression: Behind caudal tip, marginal groove between ostium and caudal tip. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Anthias connelli, SSF No. 166.4 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from a small locality in Natal, south of Durban harbour. Attains 11 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.7, 2.9 mm OD, 66, 70 mm TL), PEM 4341, 4340; off the Bluff, Natal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho- momorph, low anterior colliculum visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: 101 Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:1.0. Collum: Absent but slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped over ostium and caudal tip, ridge-like along the straight part of the cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, very poorly developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove in the ventral area, from caudal tip to ostium. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Anthias squamipinnis, SSF No. 166.9 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and western Indian Ocean from Natal to Japan, Philippines, Australia and Marshall Islands. Juveniles occur south to Algoa Bay. Attains 10 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/3 1 (2.35-3.7 mm OD, 61-1 1 1 mm TL), PEM 2657, 14252 (RUSI 35150), 4373; Ledsman shoal, Comoro Ids and Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Blunt or sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior indistinct, depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Approximately oval, ventral edge straight to sinu¬ ous. Cauda: Slightly flexed along its length, tip not distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like between neck and flexion, poorly developed at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow wide groove from cauda to mid ventral area. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate to wide, notch absent or shallow, angle wide. Holanthias natalensis , SSF No. 166.12 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: Known from East London to Madagascar and Reunion. Attains at least 37 cm SL. MATERIAL: 5/5 (9.5-13.88 mm OD, 240-469 mm TL), PEM 6489, 15481 (RUSI 40619), 15482 (RUSI 40621), 8807, 0604H; Natal; Id. TH, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oblong with growth. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised or approximately flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded in large (c. 13 mm OD), pointed in small (9.5 mm OD) otoliths and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, ante¬ rior low, posterior extremely indistinct, depressed in centre, may be rough. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and shallow. Cauda: Almost straight and elongate, tip barely flexed, deeper than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted, ventral constriction hooked. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, rounded step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like, strong and narrow to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval, deep and elongate, may reach margin. Ventral depression: Absent, wide groove from ostium to tip of cauda, close to margin. Rostrum: Large and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to minute and rounded in the large otoliths. Excisura: Wide, notch absent in small (c. 9.5 mm OD), notch shallow, angle wide in large otoliths (c. 13mm OD). Nemanthias carberryi, SSF No. 166.15 PLATE 57 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in the Indian Ocean, east to the Maldives and south to Natal; adults on Aliwal Shoal south of Durban, juveniles to Port Alfred. Attains 7 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/6 (2.3-3.0 mm OD, 69-102 mm TL), PEM 14241, 14238, 14239 (all RUSI 30636); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised or slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homosulcoid, low and indistinct an¬ terior colliculum present. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flares widely, becomes elongate. Cauda: Slightly flexed along the length, tip not distinctly closed. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium and posteri¬ or cauda, ridge-like from mid-ostium along caudal, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed at extremes, elsewhere poorly or well developed. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Shallow groove from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, may be broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shal¬ low, angle acute. Aethaloperca rogaa, SSF No. 166.19 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION : Widespread; Red Sea and western Indian Ocean from Natal to Persian Gulf, Philippines and Japan. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (6.9-9.3mmOD, 2706 TL not recorded, 370-430 mm TL), PEM 2706, 8186, 8311; Ledsman shoal, Kosi and Sod¬ wana Bays; Id. JER, GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, anterior colliculum low, rugose, posterior not visible in material available. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shallow and flared. Cauda: Straight, strongly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent but small step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Narrow and oval, or absent. Ventral depression: Absent, groove under cauda, from caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, broad and bluntly rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cephalopholis argus, SSF No. 166.21 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Extends from the Red Sea south to Durban, and to the central Pacific as far as the Pitcairn Group. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.55, 5.54 mm OD, 95, 1 15 mm TL), PEM 0870, 1089H; Eilat and Sodwana Bay; Id. TH, JER. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, posterior extremely low, slightly rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally, with low colliculum. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, ridge-like from neck to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly 102 developed at extremes, well developed under cauda. Dorsal de¬ pression: Elongate, oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin of large otoliths. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed, if present. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Cephalopholis aurantia, SSF No. 166.22 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Mauritius, Reunion, Seychelles, east and southern Africa (to Durban). Rare. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.8 mm OD, 228 mm TL), PEM 14536 (RUSI 31433); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular with tooth in mid-dor- sal area. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, posterior extremely low, slightly rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, ventral margin approximately straight, filled with colliculum. Cauda: Straight, wide, flexed near tip, ending close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal de¬ pression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Depressed under flexion, joined by groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, elongate and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cephalopholis leopardus, SSF No. 166.25 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Probably occurrs in southern Mozambique. Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific region. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (5.8-6.0 mm OD, all 125 mm TL), PEM 14280 (RUSI 28236), 15638, 15625; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notch below caudal tip, slightly irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Bluntly rounded and slightly crenate or notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, indistinct and extremely low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, poorly defined. Cauda: Initially straight, flared and flexed towards posterior, tip indistinct. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Well developed over ostium, well developed to ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Wide, shallow depression under flexion, may join margin groove. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cephalopholis miniata, SSF No. 166.26 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Ranges from the Red Sea south to Natal, and east to the western Pacific. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/14 (8.52-11.6 mm OD, 258-372 mm TL), PEM 2753, 8312, 8367; Ledsman Shoal and Sodwana; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Blunt, grooved or digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior barely raised but slightly rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, ventral edge of ostium straight. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in larger otoliths. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and irregular. Ventral depression: Under flexion, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle usually wide. Cephalopholis nigripinnis, SSF No. 166.27 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indian Ocean, south to Natal. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (5.0, 6.7 mm OD, 132, 173 mm TL), PEM 8212 (RUSI 30391), 14522 (RUSI 31447), [7701 (RUSI 34135)]; Mau¬ ritius and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded to rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior indistinct, slightly rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dorsal wall flared, ventral wall approximately horizontal. Cauda: Approximately straight, flexed near end, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Col¬ lum: Absent, step to cauda in small otoliths. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, well developed or low ridge above cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Hook-like below tip of cauda. Rostrum: Large and rounded. Antirostrum: Small to absent. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide, if present. Cephalopholis sexmaculata, SSF No. 166.28 PLATE 58 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea, south to Beira, and east to French Polynesia. Attains 47 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.58 mm OD, 350 mm TL), PEM 15611; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH, lodged in JLBSII. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad, dorsal wall flared, ventral wall approximately horizontal. Cauda: Narrow at neck, flared and flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally distinctly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, distinct step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and after flexion. Dorsal depression: Absent, margin may be de¬ pressed irregularly. Depression near postero-dorsal comer and groove may penetrate flexion. Ventral depression: Shallow un¬ der anterior cauda; may be shallow depression near margin. Mar¬ gin groove shallow. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cephalopholis sonnerati, SSF No. 166.29 PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean (south to Durban) to the central Pacific (Marshall and Gilbert Islands). Attains 57 cm. MATERIAL: 4/25 (6.1-12.0 mm OD, 162-431 mm TL), PEM 8245 (RUSI 34149), 8366 (RUSI 37474), 8172, 8361; Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; 103 sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and ir¬ regular to crenate. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum poorly defined or not visible, posterior slightly rugose and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Fairly straight and narrow, floor irregular. Cauda: Straight, distinctly flexed and deep. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed, may be ridge-like over anterior cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed becomes ridge-like after flexion. Dorsal depression: Elongate and irregular. Ventral depression: Present below flexion with notch to margin, shallow groove runs anteriorly. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Ex- cisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Cephalopholis spiloparaea, SSF No. 166.30 PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION : East Africa to French Polynesia and the Pitcairn Group. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.0-7.66 mm OD, 132-170 mm TL), PEM 14250 (RUSI 28270), 14259 (RUSI 27112), 15784; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial: slightly convex, -Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt with notch and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dorsal wall flared and short, ventral wall horizontal. Cauda: Straight for 2/3rds of length and gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, slight step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed, poor after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, low ridge after flexion. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Under flexion, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or extremely small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow. Cephalopholis urodata, (Forster, 1801) SSF No. 166.- PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION: A wide-ranging species, occurring from East Africa (south to Sodwana Bay); to French Polynesia and the Pitcairn Group (Randall and Heemstra 1991). Attains 273 mm TL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7.7, 8.1 mm OD, 225, 233 mm TL), PEM 8401 (RUSI 34148), 8199 (RUSI 37506); Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded or oblique and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum extremely low, posterior indistinct, slightly rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, slightly flared dorsally with irregular colliculum. Cauda: Straight, strongly flexed near tip, ending close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, well developed to ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Poor under anterior ostium, well developed under posterior ostium and ante¬ rior cauda, low ridge under flexion. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle variable. Cromileptes altivelis , SSF No. 166.31 PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION: Kenya, India and Sri Lanka to Japan and Aus¬ tralia; may occur along coast of Mozambique. Attains 70 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.4, 6.36 mm OD, 126, 222 mm TL), PEM 5986, 11297; locality unknown; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low, anterior, rugose. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Nar¬ row and elongate. Cauda: Strongly flexed, recurved and deep at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and caudal flexion, ridge¬ like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, oval and deep. Ventral depression: Elongate under crista, no groove. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, if present, angle acute. Epinephelus albomarginatus, SSF No. 166.33 PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from southern Mozambique to East London. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 4/23 (8.4-23.0 mm OD, 173-804 mm TL), PEM 6545 (RUSI 19373), 0747, 6221, 6378; off Natal; Id. RvdE, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Fusiform to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and sinuate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or pointed, becoming irregular with growth. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct and barely raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, narrow. Cauda: Sinuous, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step present. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, becoming ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow and wide depression above crista. Ventral depression: Shallow depression below cauda, deepest near tip. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed, but small in juveniles. Excisura: Wide, notch variable, angle acute. Epinephelus under so ni, SSF No. 166.34 PLATE 59 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from southern Mozambique to Knysna. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 5/38 (9.5-17.4 mm OD, 260-751 mm TL), PEM 8578 (RUSI 37472), 14821, 10353, 6336, 6218; Natal, Transkei and eastern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, serrate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, posterior may be very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, ventral margin straight, crease at dorsal edge of ostium in large otoliths. Cauda: Sinuate and flexed, deeper and narrower at tip. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 104 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.3. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, well developed to ridge-like (with separate crests) over cauda in large otoliths. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, becoming ridge-like towards posterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, follows cauda. Ventral depression: Along cauda to margin, groove near margin. Ros¬ trum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large or small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Epinephelus chabaudi, SSF No. 166.37 PLATE 60 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Knysna, north to Kenya. Attains 137 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (10.5-20.4 mm OD, 245-755 mm TL), PEM 0173 (RUSI 03587), 10364, 8564; off Transkei and southeastern Cape; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Very slightly rounded and irregular to very irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, appears ventrally situated. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, anterior colliculum slightly raised, may be nodular, poste¬ rior very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, ventral edge poorly defined. Cauda: Sinuous, slightly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, small step present. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion and very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under anterior cauda, ridge-like to tip. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow and broad, area broad in large otoliths (c. 20 mm OD). Ventral depression: Very shallow depression under cauda and caudal tip. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch absent or extremely shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus chlorostigma, SSF No. 166.38 PLATE 60 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indian Ocean (south to Natal) to western Pacific. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (8.6-12.0mmOD,250-365mmTL), PEM 6178, 2701, 6177; ORI and Sodwana; Id. JER, RvdE, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph anterior colliculum low, posterior barely raised, if visible. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately narrow, steep walls. Cauda: Sinuate, flexes near tip which may be open. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like along cauda, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed under sulcus, ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Near tip of cauda, joins ventral groove. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, if present, angle wide. Epinephelus fasciatus, SSF No. 166.39 PLATE 60 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea, southwards to Port Alfred and east¬ wards to the central Pacific. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 5/40 (6.1-9.54 mm OD, 177-252 mm TL, 2702 not measured), PEM 8532, 14570 (RUSI 31409), 14573, 14527 (RUSI 31438), 2702, [8400 (RUSI 37511), 8531 (RUSI 37512), 8197 (RUSI 37460)]; Sodwana Bay and Mauritius; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Very slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, anterior extremely low, posterior very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and narrow, almost straight. Cauda: Straight then strongly flexed, tip not clearly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1. Col¬ lum: Absent, small step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed, ridge-like along cauda to flexion, poor after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed under sulcus, ridge-like under flexion to tip. Dorsal depression: Narrow and elongate. Ventral depression: Under caudal flexion, joined by ventral groove/s. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to minute and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow if present, angle varies. Epinephelus flavocaeruleus, SSF No. 166.41 PLATE 60 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from Kenya south to Port Alfred and east to India, Persian Gulf, Andaman Ids and East Burma Sea; also probably all tropical Indian Ocean Ids. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (7.22-16.34 mm OD, 263-835 mm TL), PEM 15440 (RUSI 40609), 15072, 2850; Sodwana Bay, Cape Recife and ORI; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval (c. 7 mm OD) to oblong (c. 13 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded to lobed; sculpture, irregular to dentate or digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Rounded, becoming sharply rounded and irregular, becoming digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, both very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide but elongate, slightly sinuous ventral wall. Cauda: Sinuate, flexed at posterior. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, LI. 2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent but slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to caudal flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval from neck to flexion. Ventral depression: Present under cauda, groove may be present. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute, becoming large and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Epinephelus hexagonatus, SSF No. 166.44 PLATE 60 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical western Indian Ocean from Mozam¬ bique to Sri Lanka and east to the Marshall Ids and Japan. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7.5, 11 .9 mmOD, 325, 515 mmTL), PEM 8534, 8547; Sodwana Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oblong, almost fusiform. Thick¬ ness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Pointed, irregular or crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, both extremely low and indis¬ tinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, deeper than cauda, step V-shaped. Cauda: Straight, tip flexed and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 8547 broken. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus, ridge-like under flexion, may extend along entire cauda in large otoliths. 105 Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Shallow near caudal flexion; shallow, wide groove joins depression. Rostrum: Short, becoming large and elongate with growth. Antirostrum: Small becoming large and pointed with growth. Excisura: Mod¬ erate to wide, notch shallow to deep, angle acute. Epinephelus lanceolatus, SSF No. 166.45 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific south to Algoa Bay. At¬ tains 270 cm, 400+ kg. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.1, 17.8 mm OD, 9328 = 122mm TL, 0077 = c. 100kg, TL not recorded), PEM 9328, 0077; PEO, Swartkops estuary; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong as juvenile, approximately oval in large otoliths (17.8 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate, thickening with growth. Form: - Mesial convex to very convex in adults, - Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and irregular, crenate in juveniles. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ante¬ rior low, posterior extremely indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate in juvenile, becoming wide and bell-shaped in large otoliths. Cauda: Slightly sinuate, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step or rise to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and caudal flexion, ridge-like over cauda to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda but ridge¬ like under caudal flexion. Dorsal depression: Oval in juveniles, poor or absent in large otoliths. Ventral depression: Elongate depression below cauda, groove present near margin. Rostrum: Large and blunt. Antirostrum: Absent in juveniles, becoming large and pointed (17.8 mm OD). Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Epinephelus longispinis, SSF No. 166.46 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from the Transkei to Indonesia. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (10.5, 10.76 mm OD, 405, 380 mm 1L), PEM 5671, 15769; SodwanaBay, Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and cre¬ nate. Posterior margin: Oblique and dentate to irregular digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, both low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and narrow, slight dorsal flare, ventral wall straight. Cauda: Deep at angular flexion. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorsal and ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, low ridge along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium and cauda, ridge-like from flexion to tip, wall steep at flexion. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Under cauda, near margin, deepens posteri¬ orly. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small or minute and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus macrospilos (misnamed E. faveatus in SSF), SSF No. 166.40 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean to Natal and east to Indonesia. Attains 5 1 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (10.52, 10.72 mm OD, TL not recorded), PEM 2704, 2780; Sodwana Bay; Id. JER. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate to thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised; sculpture, irregular and notched. Ventral mar¬ gin: Very slightly rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Pointed and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, margin of posterior visible, deeply incised in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide, walls irregular. Cauda: Sinuous, deep, slightly flexed, dorsal caudal wall slopes. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral¬ ly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, high ridge under cauda to tip. Dorsal depression: Irregular and shallow, area uneven. Ventral depression: Elongate along entire cauda, joins ventral groove causing ridging in ventral area. Rostrum: Large and elongate, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus marginatus (previously E, guaza in SSF) SSF No. 166.43 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic south to the Cape and into the Indian Ocean, at least to Quissico, Mozambique (25°S). Also reported from Brazil. Attains 150 cm. MATERIAL: 5/47 (4.85-18.0 mm OD, 136-755 mm TL), PEM 2535, 6036, 15480 (RUSI 40597), 5731, 6381; northern Natal to southern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate, thick¬ ens with growth. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Pointed and dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ex¬ tremely low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, widening with growth. Cauda: Long, slightly sinuous. Flexed tip parallel to posterior wall, tip may open into ventral groove. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus, may be ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista infe¬ rior: Well developed under sulcus, ridge-like after flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Distinct and elongate under caudal flexion, groove may be present near ventral margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded, be¬ coming narrow and elongate with growth. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or minute. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute to wide. Epinephelus melanostigma, SSF No. 166.49 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean south to Durban and East to the western Central Pacific. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.82 mm OD, 329 mmTL), PEM 15399 (RUSI 40602); Madagascar or Bazaruto; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately hori¬ zontal; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, almost parallel to dorsal margin, crenate to serrate. Posterior margin: Oblique and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, broad, mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Straight, sharply flexed, tip indistinct. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed else¬ where, ridge-like from flexion. Dorsal depression: Absent, but groove through crista at flexion. Ventral depression: Complex, penetrates crista at neck, elongate under cauda, joins depressed margin. Rostrum: Elongate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. 106 Epinephelus merra , SSF No. 166.50 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to the Transkei, east to French Polynesia and north to Japan. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.2 mm OD, 495 mm 1L), PEM 14574; Mauritius; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised and indentate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Straight to slightly rounded, notched under caudal tip and serrate. Posterior margin: Pointed and irregular to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, posterior very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, slight ventral bulge anterior to neck, fairly deep and irregular floor. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed over ventral notch, ventral wall vertical. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like else¬ where. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Elongate from tip of cauda to neck, ventral groove joins posteriorly. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus morrhua, SSF No. 166.53 PLATE 61 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea south to Durban and east to Japan and New Caledonia. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (8.7-17.8 mm OD, 163-520 mm SL), PEM 7716 (RUSI 20109), 15614, 15603, 1584H; Kenya, Comoro Ids, Mozambique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval in juvenile, fusiform in large (17.8 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave becoming more con¬ cave with growth. Dorsal margin: Fairly straight to slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular to dentate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as tip not distinctly closed, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, both low, indistinct in juveniles. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate. Cauda: Straight section short, flex short in adult, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step may be present in small otoliths. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, low ridge over cauda in juveniles, well developed in large otoliths. Crista inferior: Poor or well developed under ostium, well developed along cauda, ridge-like after flexion. Dorsal depression: Elongate from flexion to ostium, broadening with growth. Ventral depres¬ sion: Below flexion joined under caudal tip by groove from margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch absent or shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus rivulatus, SSF No. 166.60 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in western Indian Ocean from Algoa Bay to India and east to China and Japan. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 3/45 (7.7-10.6 mm OD, 237-325 mm TL), PEM 6162 (RUSI 17176), 6732, 6304, [8874 (RUSI 37496), 8826 (RUSI 37420)] ; PortDumford, Durban and Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately fusiform to oblong. Thickness: Moderate to thick in larger fish. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded or slightly raised; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, large may appear ostio-caudal, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, both very low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and approximately straight. Cauda: Sinuate, gently flexed, tip not closed. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dor so- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1 . Collum: Absent, small step may be present. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like along anterior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda to ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Elongate above cauda. Ventral depression: Present near flexion, joins tip. Deep and wide groove at margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Epinephelus spilotoceps, SSF No. 166.63 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean from Natal to Kenya, also Madagascar, Comoro Ids, Seychelles, Mauritius and Reunion; in the western Pacific from the Marshall Ids to the Line Ids. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.4, 5.0 mm OD, 114, 141 mmTL), PEM 14545 (RUSI 31388), 14544 (RUSI 31382); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate, thickens in large otoliths. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly con¬ cave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notch under caudal tip and sculpture slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and widens slightly anteriorly. Cauda: Approximately straight till strong flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus, ridge-like in mid- cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, ridge-like after flexion. Dor¬ sal depression: Oval over mid-cauda. Ventral depression: Deep depression under flexion, deep ventral groove. Rostrum: Broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Epinephelus tauvina, SSF No. 166.65 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea to Natal, thence to India across the central Pacific to the Pitcairn group. Attains 70 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.7 mm OD, 343 mm TL), PEM 15682 (RUSI 41959); Red Sea; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly round¬ ed, notch under caudal tip; slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, ventral comer sharply rounded; irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low ante¬ rior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately elongate. Cauda: Approximately straight till flexed tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted, mainly ventral. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus, ridge-like in mid-cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, ridge-like after flexion. Dor¬ sal depression: Elongate from neck to flexion. Ventral depres¬ sion: Deep depression under flexion, joins ventral groove. Rostrum: Moderate, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. 107 Epinephelus tulcula, SSF No. 166.66 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Natal to Japan and Australia. Attains 200 cm, 100 kg. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.1 mm OD, 245 mm TL), PEM 8813 (RUSI 37483); Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, dentate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and narrow. Cauda: Straight over most of length, tip strongly flexed and not distinctly closed, ends close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, small step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed becoming ridge-like under flex¬ ion. Dorsal depression: Absent, area irregular. Ventral depres¬ sion: Present under flexion, shallow groove below cauda. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. Plectropomus sp. (identified as P. maculatum ), SSF No. 166.— PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical. Some species attain at least 100cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.78 mm OD, 468 mm TL), 1347H; Eilat; Id. AD. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Very slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares widely dorsally, ven¬ tral wall very poorly defined. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip, distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, marked step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and at caudal tip, ridge-like along cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped under ostium, ridge-like under cauda, broad ridge under flexion, narrowing to tip. Dorsal depression: Wide and shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Lower 2/3rds of ventral area depressed. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute to absent. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Variola albimarginata, SSF No. 166.74 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Zanzibar, Mafia Id, Madagascar, Mascarenes, Chagos and western Pacific. Attains 60 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.82 mm OD, 370 mm TL), PEM 15674; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH, lodged in JLBSIL Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, notched or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregu¬ lar, notched or digitate posteriorly. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide. Cauda: Narrow, deep and approximately straight then roundly flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista su¬ perior: Low ridge over anterior cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed, ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate. Ventral depression: Shallow at caudal tip, indistinct groove near margin. Rostrum: Large and angularly blunt. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. Variola louti , SSF No. 166.75 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: From Red Sea south to Durban and east to the Pitcairn Group. Attains 80 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/11 (6.7-11.3 mm OD, 215-645 mm TL), PEM 8545, 8158, 8386, 8374; Kosi Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, notched or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and cre¬ nate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular, erod¬ ing with growth. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide and deep. Cauda: Deep and approximately straight until distal flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step present. Crista superior: Well developed, low ridge over cauda in juveniles. Crista inferior: Well developed, ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate in juveniles, area notched in adults. Ventral depression: Shallow at caudal tip, deepening with growth, ventral groove in large otoliths (c. 1 1 mm OD). Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Usu¬ ally small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Serranus cabrilla, SSF No. 166.76 PLATE 62 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic from the English Channel to South Africa and round this coast to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/10 (3.35-7.8 mm OD, 83-217 mm TL), PEM 5627, 6546, 15008 (RUSI 35582), 0476; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal in large otoliths, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph with anterior colliculum slightly raised, poste¬ rior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate. Cauda: Straight then gently flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step may be present. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium and caudal tip, narrow ridge over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Moder¬ ately well developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, distinct groove in large otoliths, absent in small. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or very shallow with acute angle. SERRANIDAE Nelson No. 284 (CALLANTHIIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: A single species available. Otolith oval, crenate to irregular and dentate, heterosulcoid with ostial opening, up to 9 mm OD. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low, posterior very low. Cauda with slight flexion at tip with distinct, ridge-like crista superior. 108 Callanthias legras, SSF No. 168.1 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Dassen Is. (off western Cape) to Natal. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 4/15 (5.7-9.0 mm OD, 171-295 mm TL), PEM 14436, 14432 (RUSI 28355), 12546 (RUSI 28356), 14433, [15365 (RUSI 38213)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular with crenations. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and crenate to dentate. Posterior margin: Rounded to slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior collicu- lum may be slightly raised at ventral margin, depressed in centre; posterior very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Fairly wide and deep, colliculum may be irregular and protrude through excisura. Cauda: Deep, slight flexion at tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent but distinct step up to cauda in large otoliths. Crista superior: Poor to moderately well developed over ostium, distinct ridge over cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Wide and shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, area smooth, becoming rough ventrally. Rostrum: Large and blunt to sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and blunt to pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. SERRANIDAE Nelson No. 284 (DINOPERCIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Only a single species. Otoliths oval to oblong, measured up to 15.2 mm OD, heterosulcoid with ostial openings, cauda flexed and distinctly closed. Heteromorph, low anterior and indistinct posterior colliculum. Ostium wide with anterior dorsal margin flared or retroflexed. Dinoperca petersi , SSF No. 180.1 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: Uncertain, apparently common in Pakistan and South Africa (from Natal to Algoa Bay). Also reported from Kenya and Mozambique. Attains 62 cm. MATERIAL: 5/30 (7.2-15.22 mm OD, 165-483 mm TL), PEM 8735, 11990, 8579, 15155, 6733; Durban and Cape Recife; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oblong with growth. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and indented; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, entire anteri¬ orly, crenate or irregular posteriorly. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum slightly raised; posterior extremely low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide and oval to rounded, dorsal margin flared or with retroflexion. Cauda: Approximately straight with short, sharp flexion at tip. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step absent. Crista superior: Poor over anterior ostium, well developed over posterior ostium and cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ante¬ rior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Very shallow. Ventral depression: Shallow depression/groove below and anterior to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. GRAMMISTIDAE Nelson No. 285 Family characteristics: Two species available. Otoliths oval or fusiform, small, up to c. 8.3 mmOD, heterosulcoid, ostial opening. Heteromorph. Key la. Otolith fusiform; ostium elongate; cauda long and straight; colliculi indistinct . . Aulacocephalus temmincki 167.1 lb. Otolith oval; ostium broad; cauda gently flexed but short; colliculi usually distinct . . Grammistes sexlineatus 167.3 Aulacocephalus temmincki , SSF No. 167.1 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: Wide-spread in the Indo-Pacific: Natal (south to Durban), Japan, Korea, north eastern China, Taiwan, Mauritius, Reunion, Thailand, Kermadec Ids and New Zealand. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.68-8.22 mm OD, 216-c. 350 mm TL), PEM 15469 (RUSI 40596), 5984, 0616; Durban fish market and Umhlanga; Id. PCH, MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to dentate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed and irregular to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct anterior and posterior colliculi, ventral margins slightly raised. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, ventral margin approximately straight and dorsal margin flared slightly. Cauda: Approximately straight and flared at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso- ven¬ tral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, distinct step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped along entire length of sulcus, tip may have groove from dorsal area. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough. Ventral depression: Shallow and parallel to crista, shallow groove near margin from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Grammistes sexlineatus , SSF No. 167.3 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea; on our coast south to East London. Attains 27 cm. MATERIAL: 5/11 (1.9-4.45 mm OD, 37-185 mm TL), PEM 14281, 8413 (RUSI 341 17), 5979, 8348, 0023; east coast of South Africa and Comoro Ids; Id. PCH, MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Thick, especially centre. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular to crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Rounded to blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior collicu¬ lum distinct but low and rugose, filling entire ostium, posterior distinct but low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, slight flare dorsally. Cauda: Short, gently flexed along entire length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, (0023 dam¬ aged). Collum: Absent, no distinct step. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like from posterior ostium along cauda, well developed at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed to ridge-like below ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Cres¬ cent-shaped depression or broad groove from ostium to caudal tip close to margin. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch, if present, very shallow, angle wide. 109 GRAMMISTIDAE Nelson No. 285 (PSEUDOGRAMMIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Two species available. Otoliths oval or approximately fusiform, up to c. 4 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, open¬ ing ostial, cauda short and straight. Heteromorph with anterior colliculum indented and more distinct than posterior. Ventral groove close to margin distinct. Key la. Otolith oval; ostium elongate oval, slightly bulbous ventrally; rostrum short, broad and sharply rounded; dorsal depression shallow .... Aporops allfreei 171.1 lb. Otolith approximately fusiform; ostium flares anteriorly; rostrum large and sharply rounded; dorsal depression deep . . Pseudo gramma polyacantha 171.2 Aporops allfreei , SSF No. 171.1 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: From Kenya (4°43’S) to SodwanaBay. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.0 mm OD, 92 nun TL), PEM 14270 (RUSI 31 128); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low anterior colliculum indented, very low posterior colliculum may be present. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, narrowing anteriorly, slightly bulbous postero-ventrally. Cauda: Almost straight, angled ventrally, tip rounded. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Well developed along entire length. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow, approximately oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove along entire margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Min¬ ute to absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle very wide. Pseudogramma polyacantha, SSF No. 171.2 PLATE 63 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, from Africa to Polynesia and Ha¬ waii, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 70 mm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.35, 2.4 mm OD (4405 broken), 37-50 mm TL), PEM 4405, 2770, 2854; Sodwana Bay and Ledsman Shoal; Id. JER, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Pointed and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum with low margins, depressed in centre; posterior, very indistinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally. Cauda: Short, broad and straight, indistincdy closed at tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, except tip poorly developed. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Deep and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove at margin widening on rostrum, groove branches anterior to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. PSEUDOCHROMIDAE Nelson No. 286 Family characteristics: Two species available. Otoliths oblong and small up to c. 2.5 mm OD, heterosulcoid, either ostio-caudal or ostial which may appear ostio-caudal. Heteromorph, low ante¬ rior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Dorsal area reduced and in¬ dented. Key la. Otolith oblong; cauda elongate; sulcus opening ostio-caudal . Pseudochromis dutoiti 169.4 lb. Otolith oblong and relatively broad; cauda short; sulcus opening ostial but may appear ostio-caudal . Pseudochromis melas 169.5 Pseudochromis dutoiti, SSF No. 169.4 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from Pakistan and Persian Gulf to Durban. Attains 88 mm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (2.0-2.15 mm OD, 57-71 mm TL), PEM 2858, 0757H, 0696H, 0695H; Sodwana Bay; Id. TH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior and posterior colliculi low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small, flares dorsally. Cauda: Long with gentle curve along entire length, open to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.5, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval above ridge. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, groove broad and shallow near margin. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute to small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Pseudochromis melas, SSF No. 169.5 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Kenya and SodwanaBay. Attains 90 mm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.45 mm OD, 86 mm TL), PEM 4617; Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular to crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as tip not distinctly closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior colliculum, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared dor¬ sally. Cauda: Straight and slightly flexed posteriorly. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Very poor over anterior ostium, ridge-like over posterior ostium and cauda, poor to absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depression: Shallow in mid-ventral region. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute to absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. 110 PLESIOPIDAE Nelson No. 288 Characteristics of the family: Based on single species; otoliths up to at least 4.4 mm OD and moderately thick, heterosulcoid with ostial opening, cauda flexed at tip. Heteromorph. Calloplesiops altivelis , SSF No. 172.1 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo- Pacific; reported from northern Mozambique and the Red Sea. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.35 mm OD, 74 mm SL), PEM 15636, PCH93C-8; Grand Comoro; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral Approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low but distinct anterior collicu- lum, raised dorsal margin; posterior with raised margins, depressed centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flared dorsally. Cauda: Slightly angled ventrally with short flexed tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Distinctly ventrally, slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, a strong ridge from mid-ostium to flexion, well developed at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate and relatively deep from neck to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, a groove runs close to margin from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Moder¬ ate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. TERAPONIDAE Nelson No. 291 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths oval becoming oblong or fusiform, up to c. 9.4 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening, cauda flexed near tip. Heteromorph. Key la. Otolith oval-oblong and broad; ostium oval; sulcus constricted dorso-ventrally; tip of cauda closed . Terapon jarbua 173.2 lb. Otolith oblong-fusiform; ostium elongate; sulcus constricted slightly dorsally; tip of cauda indistinctly closed . Terapon the raps 173.3 Terapon jarbua, SSF No. 173.2 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-West Pacific region, extends to Knysna, uncommon south of the Kei River. Attains 33 cm. MATERIAL: 5/1 6 (0.8-9.36 mm OD, 24-307 mm TL), PEM 2834, 2833, 2831, 2830, 2341; Kosi Bay and Umvoti River mouth; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oval (c. 0.8 mm OD) to oblong with growth (>c. 3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate, thickening in large otoliths. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed to crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, becoming slightly rounded and irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded in small otoliths (c. 0.8 mm OD) becoming rounded or sharply rounded in large otoliths, and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi are nodular in large otoliths, not distinct in juveniles. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval. Cauda: Straight for 3/4 of length, ventral flexion near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.5, 1:1, 1:1.6, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, no step present. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere, may be low ridge over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus length except low ridge under ostium in large otoliths only (>c. 3 mm OD). Dorsal depression: Very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Terapon theraps, SSF No. 1733 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in tropical Indo-West Pa¬ cific region; from Durban northwards. Attains 30 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/5 (2.5-4.75 mm OD, 77-155 mm TL), PEM 15293 (RUSI 36876), 15292 (RUSI 36876), 1693, 0617; Durban and Tugela Bank; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal ma r¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate and very irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular or serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low and rugose ante¬ rior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate. Cauda: Straight, gently flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorsal constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.9, 0617 broken. Collum: Absent, very slight step. Crista superior: Ridge-like almost entire length of sulcus, poor after flexion. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed along rest of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, area grooved. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Large, sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. KUHLIIDAE Nelson No. 293 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otoliths ob¬ long, up to c. 6 mm OD, heterosulcoid, ostial opening. Hetero¬ morph, indistinct colliculi. Cauda long and narrow, flexed at tip. Kuhlia mugil, SSF No. 164.1 PLATE 64 DISTRIBUTION: Abundant throughout Indo-Pacific from Gala¬ pagos to Africa, south to Cape Agulhas. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/10 (c. 3. 2-5. 5 mm OD, 64-228 mm TL), PEM 2842, 14584 (RUSI 31441), 7441, 7440; northern Natal and East London; Id. GRA, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approxi¬ mately flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, serrated and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct, depressed colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies on rostrum, oval and slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Long, deep and narrow, strongly flexed at tip, deeper groove in end two thirds. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9 (14584), 1:1.7 (7441), others broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed towards tip. Crista inferior: Poor under anterior of ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Area from caudal tip to margin and neck depressed and surface rough. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small to moderate, pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. PRIACANTHIDAE Nelson No. 296 Family characteristics: Otoliths of the genus Cookeolus very different from genus Priacanthus. Cookeolus : oval, up to 6.4 mm OD, heterosulcoid, with oval ostium and gently flexed cauda, with distinct cristae along the length of sulcus. Heteromorph. Priacan¬ thus: approximately pyriform up to c. 2.9 mm OD, heterosulcoid 111 with indistinct ostium, cauda with ridge-like cristae. Anterior colliculum rod-like, usually penetrates excisura. Key la. Otolith oval; sulcus with ‘normal’ perciform oval ostium . Cookeolus japonicus 174.1 lb. Otolith approximately pyriform; sulcus with flared ostium with poorly defined margins . 2 2a. Anterior of otolith with single protrusion - the colliculum; cauda flexed but shallow . Priacanthus sp. 174.- 2b. Anterior of otolith with trident-like projections - rostrum, antirostrum and colliculum; cauda sinuous with well defined margins, tip not closed: Priacanthus cruentatus 174.2 and Priacanthus hamrur 174.3 (these species indistinguishable). Cookeolus japonicus (previously C. boops ), SSF No. 174.1 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: Beira to Algoa Bay. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (5. 8-6.4 mm OD, 21 3-252 mm TL), PEM 11601, 13070, 13069 (RUSI 28361); off AlgoaBay and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded or angular and dentate to digitate. Digitations may fuse at tips to leave holes through the otolith. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low ante¬ rior colliculum protrudes through the excisura, posterior indistinct but indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, elon¬ gate and approximately oval. Cauda: Deeper than ostium, cauda flares dorsally, flexes ventrally, with tip near margin. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent but area between ostium and cauda slightly raised. Crista superior: Well developed at ex¬ tremes, becoming ridge-like from posterior ostium along cauda. Crista inferior: Mostly well developed becoming low ridge to¬ wards end of cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and distinct. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, area irregular. Rostrum: Small and pointed, curves laterally. Antirostrum: Broad and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Small, notch shallow, angle acute. Priacanthus cruentatus, SSF No. 174.2 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: East coast of Africa to Hawaii, south to at least Durban; also in Atlantic. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/25 (1.75-1.9 mm OD, 73-90 mm TL), PEM 3988, 3987, 3990, 3985; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately pyriform. Thickness: Posterior moderate, anterior thin. Form: - Mesial flat posteriorly, convex anteriorly, - Lateral convex posteriorly, concave anteriorly. Dor¬ sal margin: Angled, raised posteriorly; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Keeled and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but may appear ostio-caudal as caudal tip is not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, anterior colliculum a raised crest becoming rod-like ante¬ riorly as it penetrates the excisura. This colliculum is easily broken and may therefore be absent. Posterior extremely indistinct, margin may be visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Indented and flared, margins poorly defined. Cauda: Sinuous, well defined margins, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Indistinct dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poor over ostium, ridge-like along cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, ridge-like along cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow, above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, area grooved. Rostrum: Small, finger-like and pointed. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle between antirostrum and colliculum is acute. Priacanthus hamrur, SSF No. 174.3 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout Indo- Pacific Region (Red Sea, pos¬ sibly to Hawaii); in this area from Mozambique to Knysna. Attains at least 45 cm. MATERIAL: 9/30 (1.2-2.9 mm OD, 35-365 mm TL), PEM 7189, 14366, 14372, 14364, 14375 (RUSI 28359), 14374 (RUSI 28360), 2194, 4447, 15403 (RUSI 40598), [14365 (RUSI 28358)]; off Madagascar and Southern Cape; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately pyriform. Thickness: Posterior moderate, anterior thin. Form: - Mesial flat posteriorly, convex anteriorly, - Lateral convex posteriorly, concave anteriorly. Dor¬ sal margin: Angled and raised to keeled posteriorly; sculpture, entire or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled, indentate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but may appear ostio-caudal as cauda is not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colli¬ culum a raised crest becoming rod-like anteriorly as it penetrates the excisura. This colliculum is easily broken and may therefore be absent. Posterior extremely indistinct but may be slightly textured. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Indented and flared, margins usually poorly defined. Cauda: Sinuous, well defined margins, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Indistinct dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.3(14374, 14372, 14366 broken). Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, ridge-like along cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, ridge¬ like along cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Shallow, above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, area grooved. Rostrum: Moderate, finger-like and sharply rounded, curved laterally. An¬ tirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle between antirostrum and colliculum is acute. Priacanthus sp., SSF No. 174. — PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Mozambique. Attains at least 190 mm TL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.9 mm OD, 190 mm TL), PEM 13048 (RUSI 28386); Mozambique. This may be an undescribed species. Otolith shape: Approximately pyriform. Thickness: Thin, espe¬ cially in rostral area. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum ridge- like running along rostrum, not penetrating excisura. Posterior indis¬ tinct and low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very poorly defined, concave above colliculum. Cauda: Very sharply flexed, forming a right-angle, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorsal constriction indistinct. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poor over ostium, ridge¬ like over horizontal part of cauda, poorly developed beyond flex¬ ion. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, ridge-like under horizontal part of cauda, well developed after flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depres¬ sion: Ventral area below crista is raised, lower half is depressed and flat. Rostrum: Large and pointed, flexed laterally. Antiros¬ trum: Very short and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shal¬ low, angle wide. APOGONIDAE Nelson No. 297 Family characteristics: Otoliths of the two subfamilies are ex¬ tremely different and, based on this evidence, suggests that their status needs revision. 112 The Apogoninae (described here are the genera Apogon, Archamia and Cheilodipterus ) are approximately oval to obovate and mod¬ erately small, to c. 9 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, opening pseudo- ostial or para-ostial, uncoated may appear ostial with wide excisura. Because excisura may be absent, rostrum and antiros¬ trum may be absent (in uncoated or digested otoliths, they may appear to be present). Ostium oval, often with ventral bulge, c. twice length of cauda. Cauda short, wide and may be dorsally angled, tip may not be closed. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and large, posterior usually low but often has raised ventral margin. Dorsal depression oval and deep. The Epigoninae (described here is the genus Epigonus) are oval to ovate, up to c. 11 mm OD. Heteromorph, opening ostial with distinctly pointed rostrum. Ostium and cauda elongate, caudal tip slightly flexed or flared. Heteromorph colliculi, anterior elongate, posterior very low, may be very indistinct. Dorsal area large with large, shallow depression. No key is provided as the differences between species are subtle and difficult to distinguish. Direct comparison using identified otoliths may resolve identifications of prey remains. Apogon angustatus, SSF No. 175.1 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West and South Pacific; Red Sea to Natal. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (3.0-5.04 mm OD, 43-85 mm TL), PEM 8421 (RUSI 34109), 8419 (RUSI 25474), 8418, 4396; Ledsman Shoal and Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial in small otoliths, para- ostial in large, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low oval anterior colliculum, posterior is raised towards the ventral edge with central indentation, pits (about 2 -4) may be present. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, approximately oval. Cauda: Short, straight and closed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, ridge-like over neck, well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove at margin. Rostrum: Absent or broad and rounded in large otoliths. Antirostrum: Absent or minute in large otoliths. Excisura: Absent or very narrow in large otoliths, notch shallow, angle wide. Apogon apogonides, SSF No. 175.2 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: Rare in this area; Indo-Pacific; south to Durban. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (4.8-5.66 mm OD, 89-98 mm TL), 0753H, 0752H, PEM 15632; Sodwana, Comoro Ids; Id. JER, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, may become slightly emarginate posteriorly; sculpture, irregular, may become notched. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate anteriorly, slightly irregular posteriorly. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Pseudo-ostial or para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, anterior colliculum large, approximately oval; posterior narrow, raised towards ventral edge, indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, approximately oval. Cauda: Short, straight, slightly angled dorsally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed to ridge-like over neck and cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda and at extremes. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Deep and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or broad and blunt. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch shallow, angle wide if present. Apogon aureus , SSF No. 175.3 PLATE 65 DISTRIBUTION: A common Indo-West-Pacific species; Red Sea south to Durban. Attains c. 12 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (5.9, 6.4 mm OD, 1 1 1, 1 12 mm TL), PEM 3910, 3911; Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Distinct, shallow groove runs dorso-ventrally. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum is oval, narrowing anteri¬ orly, posterior is raised at ventral edge, indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, oval. Cauda: Nar¬ row, short, slight curve in dorsal margin, dorsally angled, tip open. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, short ridge over neck, well devel¬ oped over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Deep and oval. Ventral depression: Short, shallow depres¬ sion below caudal tip. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Broad and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Apogon coccineus, SSF No. 175.4 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-Pacific; Red Sea south to Sodwana. Attains 5 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.85 mm OD, 43 mm TL), PEM 2914; Sodwana Bay; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum elongate oval, blunt posteriorly; posterior short, raised towards ventral section, in¬ dented with pits in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, elongate oval. Cauda: Very short, straight. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly de¬ veloped along entire length. Dorsal depression: Deep and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin from ostium to cauda. Rostrum: Broad, short and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Apogon cookii , SSF No. 175.5 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; common in the western Indian Ocean, south to Durban. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (3.25-5 .84 mm OD, 58- 1 14 mm TL), PEM 2720, 2667, 1401H, [15748 & 15749 (both RUSI 42693)]; Natal and kwaZulu; Id. OG, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Low dorso-ventral ridge in mid-section. Dorsal margin: Raised anteriorly, slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply 113 rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial (<5.5 mm OD) becoming para-ostial with growth (c. 5.8 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum ap¬ proximately oval, posterior only slightly raised towards ventral margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, dorsal margin may be raised. Cauda: Short, narrow and straight or slightly flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.6, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed at extremes, low ridge over neck, well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and narrow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be shallow groove under anterior half. Ros¬ trum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Apogon cyanosoma, SSF No. 175.6 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Common from Mozambique Is. northward, in Red Sea, Indo-West Pacific. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (3.5-43 mm OD, 62-74 mm TL), 098 1H, PEM 15753 (RUSI 42695), 15699 (RUSI 42660), 15751 (RUSI 42695); Eilat, Red Sea; Id. AB, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial with two shallow canals to margin from anterior ostium, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval, posterior straight and raised on ventral edge. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, dorsal wall raised. Cauda: Approximately straight and short. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, low ridge from posterior ostium over neck and along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and very deep. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow margin groove from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded (taken from top canal). An¬ tirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Apogon fraenatus, SSF No. 175.9 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific; Red Sea to Durban. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3. 1-6.8 mm OD, 46-117 mm TL), PEM 8416, 8415, 14262; Comoro Ids and Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately flattened; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial becoming para-ostial with growth (>c. 4 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval, posterior is large, may be raised only ventrally in small otoliths, in large it fills cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval and elongate with distinct dorsal hump. Cauda: Short, wide and slightly flexed dorsally. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.5, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed elsewhere, steep wall near caudal tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under cauda, poorly developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, distinct groove close to margin in largest otolith but not distinct in small otoliths. Rostrum: Absent or broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Absent or minute, notch very shallow, angle wide. Apogon kallopterus, SSF No. 175.12 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Common in Indo-Pacific; Red Sea and south to AlgoaBay. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 5/20 (4.0-6.68 mm OD, 65- 1 14 mm TL), PEM 2745, 2928, 15651, 2797, 15589; off Sodwana, Comoro Ids; Id. GJBR, GRA, PCH, 2 lodged in JLBSB. Otolith shape: Oval to obovate. Thickness: Moderate Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Depression on dorsal surface in large otoliths. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat, raised anteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial or para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, anterior colliculum is oval and extends posteriorly through neck; posterior is raised on ventral margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, approximately oval. Cauda: Short, ap¬ proximately straight, angled slighdy dorsally. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, ridge-like over neck and well de¬ veloped over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin, especially in large otoliths. Rostrum: Absent or broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Absent or very narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Apogon lateralis, SSF No. 175.14 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, often found in fresh water and in estuaries, south to Inhaca Is. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.0 mm OD, 43 mm TL), PEM 8411 (RUSI 34113); Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and moderately narrow; posterior is nar¬ row and raised at ventral edge. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, narrowing anteriorly. Cauda: Angled slightly dorsally, short and narrower than ostium. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, low ridge over neck area. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, absent under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Broad, short and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Apogon multitaeniatus, SSF No. 175.16 PLATE 66 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea to Durban. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (9.1, 9. 14 mm OD, 171, 175 mmTL), PEM 6004, 1395H; Durban; Id. OG. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lat¬ eral surface: Dorso-ventral indentation in mid-otolith. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial and para caudal (with groove running from tip of cauda to margin), hetero- 114 sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum large and broad, filling the ostium; posterior large, low and fills cauda, with two indentations, but not raised ventrally. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large and broad, ventral margin straight. Cauda: Angled dorsally with flared, squared end and a channel to postero-dorsal comer. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, ridge- like over neck and well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along length of sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Large and oval, shallow ventrally, deeper dorsally. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin from ostium to cauda. Rostrum: Short, blunt and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle varied. Apogon quadrifasciatus, SSF No. 175.20 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific; Red Sea to Inhaca Is. At¬ tains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.76 mm OD, 92 mm TL), PEM 0230; off Tugela mouth; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, caudal tip not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval, extending posteriorly through neck. Posterior colliculum not well defined and not raised ventrally. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, narrows anteriorly and posteriorly. Cauda: Angled dorsally slightly, tip open, shallow pit in centre of cauda. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like over neck and well developed over posterior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Large and oval, may extend to margin. Ventral depression: Absent, no groove, area irregular. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Apogon savayensis, SSF No. 175.22 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; Red Sea south to Inhaca Is. At¬ tains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (both 5.0 mm OD, 83, 89 mm TL), PEM 15645, 0986H; Red Sea, Comoro Ids; Id. PCH, AB, TH. Otolith shape: Rounded to triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately straight or angled but notched and rounded anteri¬ orly; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, cauda not distinctly closed, heterosulcoid Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior low, square to rectangular; posterior colliculum is raised ventrally and dorsally, indented posteriorly. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Bulbous ventrally, top of ostium has channel to dorsal depression. Cauda: Slightly angled dorsally, posterior very deep with groove in centre, tip not closed. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent at very anterior ostium, ridge-like over neck, poorly developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poorly developed under cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Deep, oval and open to dorsal margin and ostium. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from tip of ostium, becoming deeper and wider to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Apogon semiornatus, SSF No. 175.23 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Durban. Attains c. 7 cm. MATERIAL: 4/15 (2.2-4.35 mm OD, 31-67 mm TL), PEM 8435, 8412 (RUSI 34112), 2846, 3883, [8433 (RUSI 34110)]; KosiBay and Durban; Id. GRA, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular and notched. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para- ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior is oval and low, posterior is raised ventrally, otherwise poorly developed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval. Cauda: Widens with growth, approximately straight, may have groove in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dor so- ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.4. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed becoming ridge-like at neck, poorly developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped along sulcus length. Dorsal depression: Deep and oval, may open to margin at a notch. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin from ostium to tip of cauda. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute, broad and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Apogon taeniophorus , SSF No. 175.25 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.55 mm OD, 60 mm SL), 1379H; Sodwana Bay; Id. MMS, JER, GRA. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with anterior colliculum approximately oval and low, posterior colliculum raised ventrally otherwise poorly defined. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, filled by colliculum. Cauda: Approximately straight and short, dorso- posterior is deeper than the rest. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, well developed over neck. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, absent under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, oval in shape and moderately large, not distinct. Ventral depression: Absent, no groove. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Archamia fucata, SSF No. 17530 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Zanzibar to Sodwana Bay. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.95, 3.35 mm OD, 52, 54mmTL), PEM 15700 & 15701 (both RUSI 42658); Gulf of Suez; Id. OG. Otolith shape: Discoid to obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Approximately flattened and angled; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo- or para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with anterior colliculum approximately rounded wedge-shape, broad anteriorly; posterior with margin raised ventrally otherwise poorly defined. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, broad, flared anteriorly, filled by colliculum, with anterior lip. Cauda: Short, slightly flexed dorsally, dorso-posterior is deeper 115 than the rest. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like from mid-ostium to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, absent under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, oval in shape and moderately large, not distinct. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove at margin, area may be rough. Rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or very short and very broad. Excisura: Absent or narrow, notch shallow, angle wide. Cheilodipterus lineatus , SSF No. 175.36 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; Red Sea, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (8.4, 9.4 mm OD, 138, 200 mm SL), PEM 14795 (RUSI 31412), 15781; St Lucia Marine Reserve, Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Depres¬ sion on dorsal and ventral margins joined by low ridge in midsec¬ tion. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat with notch; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular, cre- nate posteriorly. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and elongate, posterior is raised ventrally, uneven and indented in centre. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, dorsal wall raised and angled in midpoint. Cauda: Short and straight, angled slightly dorsally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent at extremes, ridge-like elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, very poor under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval, deep and open to dorsal wall at notch. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, wide and shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very short and rounded. Excisura: Very narrow, notch shallow, angle varied. Epigonus denticulatus, SSF No. 175.45 PLATE 67 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean to South Africa (Walvis Bay to Cape Point); Caribbean, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Depth range 200-800 m. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (4.6-7.8 mm OD, 93-164 mm TL), PEM 14707, 14746 (RUSI 31379), 14705, 14151 (RUSI 28362); Cape west coast and off Namibia; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Triangular to ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, crenate. Ven¬ tral margin: Well rounded and crenate posteriorly, otherwise irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with rectangular anterior colliculum, posterior colliculum elongate and very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate with parallel walls, kinked on dorsal wall near excisura. Cauda: Ap¬ proximately straight, flaring posteriorly, posterior tip poorly de¬ fined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed at extremes, low narrow ridge elsewhere, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, very shallow and indistinct. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, no groove. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Epigonus cf. robustus A, SSF No. 175.47A PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Southern hemisphere, South American Atlantic coast, off west coast of South Africa and southern Australia; depth range 800-1200 m (but see below). Attains at least 20 cm. MATERIAL: 7/7 (6.2-8.6mmOD, 136-194 mm TL), PEM 14958, 14959, 14957, 14955, 14956, 14954, 14953 (all 7 are RUSI 35606); Cape south coast from 330-570m; Id. MJS, MEA. NOTE: Although this species appeared to be E. robustus, differences in depth distribution and marked differences in the otoliths clearly suggests two morphologically similar species. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Has dorso- ventral groove in mid-section. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum is raised, elongate and approximately rectangular; posterior indistinct. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate with parallel walls. Cauda: Very long, ends near margin with slight ventral flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge-like over entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, covering almost entire area. Ventral depression: Very shallow crescent in mid- area. Rostrum: Moderate and pointed. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Epigonus cf. robustus B (deep water form, 700-950 m), SSF No. 175.47B PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Southern hemisphere, South American Atlantic coast, off west coast of South Africa and southern Australia; depth range 800-1200 m. Attains at least 22 cm. MATERIAL: 3/29 (6.7-9.7 mm OD, 160-216 mm TL), PEM 13650, 13418, 14606; southwest Cape and Namibia; lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: Raised nucleus with distinct concentric growth rings. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, cauda not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, large oval anterior col¬ liculum, posterior colliculum raised along ventral margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, narrow and slightly angled dorsally. Cauda: Approximately horizontal and open at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like over rest of sulcus, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, large and deep, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, no groove but ventral area behind caudal tip is depressed. Rostrum: Small, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Epigonus telescopus, SSF No. 175.48 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Anti-tropical distribution in Atlantic Ocean; one record off northeast coast of United States, common in Medit¬ erranean and northeast Atlantic; also from Walvis Bay to Cape Town; reported off east New Zealand; depth range 80-1200 m. Attains 50 cm. 116 MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.68, 11.0 mm OD, 125, 235 mm TL), 1514H, 1513H; Agulhas Bank; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate to serrate. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, cauda not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, large rectangular ante¬ rior colliculum; posterior, extremely indistinct. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately rectangular to oval. Cauda: Horizontal, flared posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire length of sulcus, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed or low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow and large, covering almost entire dorsal area. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent; large, broad groove from ostium to caudal tip near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch deep, angle acute. SILLAGINIDAE Nelson No. 299 Family characteristics: Two species available. Otoliths are ob¬ long to rounded triangular, up to c. 10 mm OD. Archaesulcoid, sinuous sulcus extends the length of otolith and has ostial opening. Homomorph colliculum which appears low and granular. Dorsal area reduced. Key la. Sulcus slightly sinuous; dorsal depression present . Sillago sihama 198.3 lb. Sulcus curved convexly; dorsal depression absent . Sillago chondropus 198.1 Sillago chondropus , SSF No. 198.1 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: A widespread Indo-West Pacific species, ex¬ tends south to Durban. Attains at least 35 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.0 mm OD, 352 mm TL), PEM 6000; locality unknown. Otolith shape: Oblong to rounded triangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Very sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archae¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, with single, low, granular-sur¬ faced colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sinuous sulcus lies close to dorsal mar¬ gin, along whole length of otolith. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly de¬ veloped along sulcus length. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depression: Elongate pit, otherwise area smooth and rounded. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Sillago sihama, SSF No. 198.3 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in the Indo- Pacific, reaches as far south as Knysna, quite abundant in Natal estuaries. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 5/20 (4.95-9.2 mm OD, 101-212 mm TL), PEM 4347, 9337, 9343, 9754, 8250 (RUSI 34083); southeastern Cape and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to rounded triangular. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archae¬ sulcoid, juveniles (c. 5 mm OD) have slight differentiation of “ostial” region. Colliculum: Homomorph, single undifferentiated colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Not differentiated, slightly sinuous sulcus, runs the length of otolith. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire length of sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oblong, lies close to margin, area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, area rounded and smooth. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Nar¬ row, notch absent. MALACANTHIDAE Nelson No. 300 Family characteristics: Four species available. Oval-ovate up to c. 10.4 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, opening ostial, sulcus deep (except juveniles). Cauda flared, flexed and deep. Development of colli¬ culi varies. Dorsal area distinctly depressed above distinct ridge of crista superior. Key la. Otolith elongate ovate; ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded; rostrum large and blunt or sharply rounded . 2 lb. Otolith oval or oval-ovate; ventral margin of otolith rounded; rostrum broad and rounded with pointed tip . . 3 2a. Cauda deep, posterior tip of cauda deep and distinct; dorsal and ventral depressions distinct; margins of otolith crenate or irregular . . Malacanthus brevirostris 197 .4 2b. Cauda shallow with tip of cauda poorly defined; dorsal and ventral depressions relatively shallow; margins of otolith highly irregular to digitate . . Malacanthus latovittatus 197.5 3a. Crista inferior well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda; rostrum moderate, broad and sharply rounded; dorsal depression deep . . Branchiostegus doliatus 197.1 3b. Cristae superior poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda; rostrum large, broad and pointed; dorsal depression shallow . . Branchiostegus sawakinensis \91.2 Branchiostegus doliatus, SSF No. 197.1 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Maputo to Durban, Mauritius and Reunion. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (5.9-10.4 mm OD, 186-381 mm TL), PEM 8827 (RUSI 37425), 14978 (RUSI 35547), 14979 (RUSI 35548); Tran- skei and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: May have groove and knob under excisura. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, very irregular or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct ante¬ rior colliculum, no visible posterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, very deep, particularly in large otoliths. Cauda: Very deep, ridge across cauda at flexion, deepening further at tip in large otoliths (c. 9 mm OD). Small otoliths (c. 6 mm OD) have shallower sulcus and no ridge across flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted, dor¬ sal constriction more pronounced with growth. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.4, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, area between ostium and cauda slightly raised. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge¬ like over anterior ostium, ridge-like to flexion, well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, deep 117 and striated. Large otoliths have very rugose area above depres¬ sion. Ventral depression: Absent. In large otoliths, narrow groove under crista and wide, shallow groove near margin under ostium to neck. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded becoming broad and pointed with growth. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, but deep in large otoliths (c. 9 mm OD), angle wide becoming acute with growth. Branchiostegus sawakinensis , SSF No. 197.2 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: In this area known only off Durban in 45-150 m; also recorded from Red Sea. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.5 mm OD, 281 mm TL), PEM 5977; Natal. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Shallow groove under excisura. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, dentate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, irregular to dentate. Posterior margin: Rounded and dentate. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with very low, oval anterior colliculum; posterior extremely low, ventral margin raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared and oval. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed and flared, deep at posterior end. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like elsewhere. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval with striations. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove at margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small, broad and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Malacanthus brevirostris , SSF No. 197.4 PLATE 68 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific species occurring from Red Sea to eastern Pacific; adults extend south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/8 (3.2-4.0 mm OD, 219-257 mm IL), PEM 6756 (RUSI 28363), 5983, 5994, [6690 (RUSI 34079), 8793 (RUSI 37468)]; Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elongate ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and irregular, may be notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flares ventrally. Cauda: Deeper than ostium, gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, area between ostium and cauda slightly raised. Crista superior: Ridge-like from antirostrum to flexion. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate above crista. Ventral depression: Elongate depression along rostrum under crista, be¬ coming shallow posteriorly. Groove near margin from neck to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Malacanthus latovittatus, SSF No. 197.5 PLATE 69 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Red Sea to Hawaii. In this area, south to Maputo. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.35 mm OD, 347 mm IL), PEM 15479 (RUSI 40624); Sodwana Bay; Id. SAC, MJS. Otolith shape: Elongate ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, very irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular to digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio- caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, lies mainly on rostrum, undercuts dorsal area. Cauda: Straight then flared and flexed near tip, undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like from ostium to flexion, well developed from flexion to tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate and moderately deep. Ventral de¬ pression: Groove-like under crista, joins shallow groove in mid¬ area, margin slightly depressed. Rostrum: Large, moderately broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Moderately large, tapering and pointed, overhangs excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. POMATOMIDAE Nelson No. 303 (SCOMBROPIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths oblong to ovate up to c. 16 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, ostial opening. Cauda straight, strongly flexed at tip. Heteromorph, slightly raised ante¬ rior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Ventral area moderately wide. Scombrops boops, SSF No. 177.1 PLATE 69 DISTRIBUTION: From the Cape to Delagoa Bay. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 7/19 (1.7-c. 15.8 mm OD, 34-467 mm TL), PEM 2568, 2567, 4456, 2236, 12561, 12637, 15030 (RUSI 35542); Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate as juvenile (<8 mm OD), becoming irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming angular; crenate in small otoliths, irregular in large. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum slightly raised, oval and uneven, extending into neck; indistinct, low pos¬ terior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approxi¬ mately oval to elongate. Cauda: Approximately straight, ventrally flexed near tip with steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted, dorsal constriction right-angled. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.6, 1:1.6, 1:1.7, 1:1.7, (4456 bro¬ ken). Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under anterior ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Approximately oval, shallow and large. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, deepens with growth, angle acute. POMATOMIDAE Nelson No. 303 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths elongate, rounded fusiform up to c. 17.1 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, opening ostial. Cauda straight, gently flexed towards tip. Heteromorph, low anterior and indistinct posterior colliculum. Dorsal area mod¬ erately reduced. Pomatomus saltatrix, SSF No. 178.1 PLATE 69 DISTRIBUTION: A single species in all oceans (except eastern Pacific) between 50° latitudes. Attains 1 m. MATERIAL: 8/130 (3.06-17.1 mm OD, 59-1080 mm TL), PEM 4327 (RUSI 13267), 3587 (RUSI 11933), 3586 (RUSI 11933), 1541, 1852, 5727, 1971, 6039; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial approximately flat in juv., slightly convex in larger 118 otoliths, - Lateral flatinjuv., becoming slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate as juv. (12 mm OD). Ventral depression: Oval to elongate. From caudal tip to neck (<5 mm OD), to end of rostrum in larger otoliths. Rostrum: Broad in juveniles, becoming elongate with growth, tip pointed. Antirostrum: If present, moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Caranx melampygus, SSF No. 210.19 PLATE 71 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread from Natal northward throughout tropical Indo-Pacific to the Americas. Attains 80 cm FL, reported to 100 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/3 (9.58 mm OD, 534 mm TL), PEM 2724; Sod- wanaBay; Id. MJS, MMS. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, raised posteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, extremely low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide and heart-shaped nar¬ rows at neck, dorsal edge of rostrum raised. Cauda: Tail is flexed, deepens posteriorly and undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Strongly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista su¬ perior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like along cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, shal¬ low groove from rostrum to caudal tip, where it deepens. Ros¬ trum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Caranx papuensis, SSF No. 210.20 PLATE 71 DISTRIBUTION: Port Alfred northward to Zanzibar, also Mada¬ gascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. Elsewhere Ryukyu Ids to Australia and eastward to the Marquesas Ids. Attains 80 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5 .78 mm OD, 247 mm TL), PEM 0397; Durban; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus 122 acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ex¬ tremely low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dors ally, rostral margin irregular, deepens towards neck. Cauda: Approximately straight initially then sharply flexed, deepening at tip and undercutting ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like to flexion, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Caranx sent, SSF No. 210.21 PLATE 71 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards to Zanzibar, also Madagas¬ car and Sri Lanka, Okinawa to Australia and Fiji Ids. Attains at least 85 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.66 mm OD, 620 mm TL), PEM 0636; Mapeiane; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approxi¬ mately flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, extremely low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, narrow and deep, lies along the rostrum. Cauda: Deep, strongly recurved and flaring at caudal tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed at extremes and ridge-like over anterior cauda, anterior crista overhangs ostium. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well-developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and dumbbell shaped. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Caranx sexfasciatus, SSF No. 210.22 PLATE 71 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo-Pacific fromNatal northward and eastward to the Americas. Attains 85 cm FL. MATERIAL: 3/5 (8.5-9.3 mm OD, 513-565 mm TL), PEM 0916 (RUSI 7872), 10485 , 8914; Swartkops, Algoa Bay; Id. RvdE, PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Dorsal and ventral edges of posterior wall are raised, forming a depression along the centre. Dorsal margin: Rattened, raised posteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming emarginate at caudal tip and crenate to irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely low and in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, dorsal edge raised and irregular. Cauda: Elongate and narrow, flexed posteriorly where it is deep and undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:1.2 (0916 and 8914 broken). Collum: Absent, step up to cauda . Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well-developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Elongate and deep, narrowing anteriorly. Rostrum: Moderate or large and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or large and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Chloroscombrus chrysurus, SSF No. 210.24 PLATE 71 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs on both sides of Atlantic. Common to 22 cm, attains at least 30 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.2 mm OD, TL not measured), PEM 0376; off Ghana; Id. FCS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and cre¬ nate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, extremely low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Sinuous, flexed at posterior, tip indistinct. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Col¬ lum: Absent, slight step. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like along anterior cauda, well developed over cau¬ dal flexion, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, slight groove from tip of cauda to flexion, deeper posteriorly. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. Decapterus macarellus, SSF No. 210.26 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Knysna northward; a circumtropical species. Attains 32 cm FL. MATERIAL: 3/3 (c. 5-6.44 mm OD, 257-325 mm TL), PEM 14277 (RUSI 33516), 15677, 15775; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular or crenate. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum flared dorsally. Cauda: Straight and then flexed and flared posteriorly, narrows and opens at ventral margin, deeper at flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 14277 broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along length of sulcus, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well-developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal de¬ pression: Elongate and deep above anterior cauda. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, may be very shallow groove in mid-ventral area. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded to pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moder¬ ately deep, angle varies. Decapterus macrosoma, SSF No. 210.27 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in Indo-Pacific from Knysna northward; also in tropical eastern Pacific. Attains 35 cm FL. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1.84.1 mm OD, 63-197 mm TL), PEM 7267, 7270, 13071 (RUSI 28371); Bird Is., Algoa Bay and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly con¬ cave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed in large otoliths or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial in juveniles, ostio-caudal in large otoliths (c. 4 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, extremely low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, broad and shallow. Cauda: Straight with slight posterior flexion, extending to margin in large otoliths. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:2.5, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed 123 over ostium, ridge-like along anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well-de¬ veloped under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, narrow and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove in mid-ventral area from ostium to caudal flexion. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute, square or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Decapterus russelli, SSF No. 210.29 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northward to Japan and Australia. At¬ tains 38 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/4 (4.05-4.6 mm OD, 147-170 mm TL), PEM 15459, 15456, 15458, 15457 (all RUSI 40556); Durban; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular or crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low; posterior colliculum indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip, open to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Fan-shaped, shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a very shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Moderately small and pointed. Anti- rostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch very shal¬ low, angle acute. Elagatis bipinnulata, SSF No. 210.31 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northward, a circumtropical species but apparently rare in eastern Atlantic Ocean. Attains 120 cm, common to 80 cm FL. MATERIAL: 2/5 (4.95, 6.2 mm OD, 415, 487 mm FL), PEM2081, 5918; SodwanaBay; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph; narrow anterior, indis¬ tinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, lying along rostrum. Cauda: Straight ventrally, flared slightly dorsally and deeper posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, anterior cauda slightly raised. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well-developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shal¬ low and elongate groove above crista, area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, wide groove close to margin, for two thirds of otolith length, ventral area reduced. Rostrum: Large and pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Gnathanodon speciosus , SSF No. 21032 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific south to northern Natal and eastward to the Americas. Attains 1 10 cm FL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.9 mm OD, (2722 broken), 285, 449 mm TL), PEM 9597, 2722; Sodwana and Kosi Bays; Id. MJS, MMS. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: In large otoliths dorsal and ventral posterior margins raised, curved in the middle. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and crenate, dentate, or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, very narrow, lies along rostrum. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly flared at distal flexion, tip deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, (2722 broken). Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well- developed under cauda, becoming ridge-like at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow above crista. Ventral depression: Shallow under flexion, may be irregular. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate or deep, angle acute. Lichia amia, SSF No. 21033 PLATE 72 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean Sea southward along entire Af¬ rican coast and around the Cape to Delagoa Bay. Common to 100 cm, reported to attain 180 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/37 (0.89-9.8 mm OD, 59-1015 mm IL), PEM 1594, 2959, 1140, 14854; Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Small juvs (0.9 mm OD) rounded, becoming fusiform (>c. 3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat in larger otoliths (>c. 3 mm OD) and rounded in juvs; slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, het¬ erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Covers most of rostrum in large otoliths, approximately flat. Cauda: Approximately straight, angled and flared dorsally, not distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and caudal tip, well developed or low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, lying over dorsal crista, variable in shape. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove present under crista. Rostrum: Very elongate and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Megalaspis cordyla , SSF No. 21034 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: East London northward; tropical Indo-West Pacific, to Japan and Australia. Attains 80 cm FL. MATERIAL: 3/4 (3.25-6.36 mm OD, 174-315 mm TL), PEM 3929, 6591, 0357; off Durban; Id. PCH, MMS. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Groove near ventral margin in large otoliths only. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular, crenate posteriorly. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum, flares dorsally, notch deepens with growth. Cauda: Approximately straight, flares and flexes slightly at pos¬ terior end, and deepens to undercut the ventral area in larger otoliths (c. 6 mm OD), not distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1, LI. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and flexion, ridge-like along cauda to flexion, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped below ostium and cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: 124 Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be irregular groove present in mid-area in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large becoming very elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute be¬ coming larger with growth, and pointed. Excisura: Moderate to wide, notch deepens with growth, angle acute. Naucrates ductor, SSF No. 210.35 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout Indian Ocean; a cir- cumtropical species. Attains 70 cm, common to 38 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.7 mm OD, 258 mm TL), PEM 14838 (RUSI 37085); ORI; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass or anvil. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Approxi¬ mately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Deeply notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct colliculi, margins may be visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very reduced, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Ventrally flexed on the pseudo-rostrum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area flattened and reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, area reduced. Rostrum: Large and pointed, pseudo-ros¬ trum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and sharply rounded, pseudo-antirostrum: Large and sharply round¬ ed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle wide. Parastromateus niger, SSF No. 210.36 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: At times abundant in Delagoa Bay, eastward to southern Japan and Australia. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.75 mm OD, 100 mm TL), PEM 0455; Durban; Id. MMS. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Round¬ ed and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, extremely low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum, flared dorsally. Cauda: Approximately straight with slight flex at tip where it narrows slightly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow flexed groove under flexion. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Pseudocaranx dentex, SSF No. 21037 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Durban southward; an anti-tropical species occurring on both sides of the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Indo- West Pacific eastward to Hawaiian Ids. Attains 96 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (4.8-8.4 mm OD, 277-555 mm TL), PEM 10442, 13072, 15476 (RUSI 40620), 9281; Algoa Bay and vicinity; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex or approximately flat, - Lateral concave or flat Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Posterior lobe appears characteristic of species. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular to crenate posteriorly. Posterior margin: Blunt or sharply rounded, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, pos¬ terior colliculum visible from neck to flexion. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, elongate, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Approximately straight, deep, flexed and flared at tip, undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Col¬ lum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium along cauda, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: May be a very shallow depression, dorsal area flattened, area at margin irregular. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, elon¬ gate, spear-like and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or blunt. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Scomberoides commersonnianus, SSF No. 21038 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout Indian Ocean from Al¬ goa Bay northward; also Taiwan to Australia. Reported to attain 120cmFL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.24 mm OD, TL not measured), PEM 2696; northern Natal; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Fusiform and elongate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly sinuous and serrate to irregular. Posterior margin: Bi- lobed, pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but cauda not distinctly closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, only posterior colliculum visible in neck. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum and flares ventrally, poorly defined. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly flexed ventrally and somewhat flared at tip, deep, undercuts ventral area after flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along length of sulcus, but poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, well devel¬ oped under cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from neck of sulcus to mid-cauda in mid-area. Rostrum: Very large, elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Scomberoides lysan , SSF No. 21039 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo-West Pacific from Durban northward and eastward to Hawaiian Ids. Attains 70 cm FL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.56, 6.68 mm OD, 370, 375 mm TL), PEM 0201, 0698; Swartkops, Algoa Bay; Id. MMS. Otolith shape: Elongate and fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat to slightly convex, - Lateral flat to slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised in centre; sculpture, crenate and lobed. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromoiph, very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent Ostium: Narrow, lies mainly on rostrum, dorsal margin of rostrum may be raised. Cauda: Approximately straight then flexed and flared. Anterior cauda shallow, deepening posteriorly, undercuts ventral area at flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed from ostium along cauda, poorly developed after flexion, absent at tip. Crista infe¬ rior: Well developed along the length of sulcus, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Absent, area slightly flattened. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. Anti- rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. 125 Scomberoides tol, SSF No. 210.40 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout Indian Ocean from Na¬ tal northward; also Japan to Australia and eastward to Fiji Ids. Attains 60 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/8 (2.15-4.6 mm OD, 95-276 mm SL), PEM 2070, 2074, 0422, 1681; Durban; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform (c. 2 mm OD), becoming elongate fusiform (c. 4 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded may be indented or bi-lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu- lum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, lies mainly on rostrum, flares dorsally. Cauda: Approximately straight, flexes near tip, juveniles more flexed. Anterior cauda shallow, deepening posteriorly. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed approaching ridge-like, poorly devel¬ oped at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed becoming ridge-like in larger otoliths (>3 mm OD) along the length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove-like depression along ventral side of sulcus in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large, becomes elongate and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and rounded in juveniles, sharply rounded in large otoliths. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Selar crumenophthalmus, SSF No. 210.41 PLATE 73 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northward; worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.3mmOD, 305 mm TL), PEM 15679; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and raised posteriorly; sculpture, irregular, may be notched. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Roundly oblique and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Collicu- lum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and distinct, penetrates excisura; posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Short and widely flared. Cauda: Elongate, slightly angled ventrally, strongly flexed posteriorly, ending very close to ventral margin; margin notch may penetrate tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Narrow, low ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow above cauda, separated from depressed margin by ridge. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove in lower ventral area. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Seriola lalandi, SSF No. 210.44 PLATE 74 DISTRIBUTION: Most common in Cape waters but migrates to Transkei and Natal in winter; a circumglobal species restricted to subtropical waters. Attains 193 cm, common to 100 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/33 (5.78-9.3 mm OD, 493-1245 mm FL), PEM 1091, 1339, 5856, 7731; Algoa Bay and vicinity; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Fusiform becoming elongate with growth. Thick¬ ness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or very slightly convex, - Lateral flat or very slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Oblique, raised posteriorly; sculpture, may be sinuate or lobed and irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and notched and slightly crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched, edge becomes reduced with growth, sculpture irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial (c. 2 mm OD), irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, irregular, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared slightly, V-shaped and deep. Cauda: Ventral margin straight, slightly flared and flexed dorsally, deeper posteriorly. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:0.8, 1:1. CoUum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to near tip of cauda, tip poorly developed. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, may be one or two grooves in mid- ventral area. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately deep, angle acute becoming wide. BRAMIDAE Nelson No. 312 FamUy characteristics: Only two species available. Otoliths ovate to fusiform, up to c. 7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, ostial opening. Ostium narrow and reduced, cauda flares at tip, not ventrally flexed. Heteromorph. Dorsal and ventral cristae ridge¬ like, dorsal depression narrow and deep. Key 1 a. Dorsal margin of otolith flattened; posterior margin angularly oblique; dorsal depression distinct and elongate; rostrum without dorsal hook at tip . . Brama brama 207 .1 lb. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; posterior margin bluntly rounded; dorsal depression short and moderately deep; rostrum may have dorsal hook at tip . Brama orcini 207.2 128 Brama brama, SSF No. 207.1 PLATE 76 DISTRIBUTION: Between Algoa Bay and Walvis Bay. Plentiful in north Atlantic, known from Australia, New Zealand, Chile. Attains at least 70 cm. MATERIAL: 4/45 (3.5-6.2 mm OD, 351-555 mm TL), PEM 13874, 13628, 13869, 13178; Cape west coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flattened and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, blunt and crenate to slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may have slight groove from margin, heterosul- coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, lies mainly on rostrum, same depth as cauda. Cauda: Widens and deepens posteriorly with steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.5, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along sulcus, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed to ridge¬ like under ostium, ridge-like under cauda. Dorsal depression: Very deep and oval-shaped. Ventral depression: Elongate below crista inferior, deepest in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Brama orcini, SSF No. 207.2 PLATE 76 DISTRIBUTION: Off Natal; tropical Indo-Pacific. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 4/1 2 (2.3-3 .4 mm OD, 1 28-262 mm TL), PEM 5164, 5161, 5165, 7915 (RUSI 20115); Cape west coast and off Algoa Bay; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Approxi¬ mately flat and crenate. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct, indented pos¬ terior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, shallow, lies mainly along rostrum, ends in a V. Cauda: Shallow, ventral edge approximately straight, tip flared and poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like, moderately poorly developed at posterior tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, ridge-like elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Shallow, elongate under crista. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed, may have dorsal hook at tip. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. EMMELICHTHYIDAE Nelson No. 315 Family characteristics: Only two species available. Otoliths approximately ovate, up to c. 11 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium flared dorsally, cauda straight along most of its length. Crista superior ridge-like to flexion, otherwise crista well developed. Heteromorph, with low, indistinct colliculi. Key la. Excisural notch moderate; rostrum elongate; caudal tip deep and flared, indistinctly closed near ventral margin .... Emmelichthys n. nit idus 209.1 lb. Excisural notch very shallow; rostrum short and broad; caudal tip distinctly flexed, closed well short of ventral margin . Plagiogeneion rubiginosus 209.3 Emmelichthys nitidus nitidus, SSF No. 209.1 PLATE 76 DISTRIBUTION: Occasionally taken off western Cape coast. Also occurs off Australia, New Zealand, St Paul and Amsterdam Ids. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 5/60 (3.1-9.6 mm OD, 82-320 mm SL), PEM 14720, 13894, 12123, 12227, 9736; west and Cape south coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Flattened or slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate in small otoliths, becoming more dentate with growth (>c. 8 mm OD). Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, may be notched, crenate in juveniles, irregular in large otoliths (c. 9 mm OD). Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, may be penetrated by notch from margin at caudal tip, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on ros¬ trum, deep. Cauda: Straight and narrow, flexes and deepens posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in large otoliths. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like from ostium to flexion, well developed from flexion. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from ostium along cauda, poorly developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Large, broad and shallow, most of dorsal area depressed. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shal¬ low grooves near margin of otolith from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed or sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Plagiogeneion rubiginosus, SSF No. 209.3 PLATE 76 DISTRIBUTION: Common off Algoa Bay, also known from New Zealand, Australia, Sri Lanka, St Paul and Amsterdam Ids and Verna Seamount, west of Cape Town. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 6/42 (3.9-11 mm OD, 116-365 mm TL), PEM 14292, 14201 (RUSI 28377), 14437 (RUSI 28377), 14359, 11696, 1 1695, [15025 (RUSI 35597)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval becoming rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very low, in¬ distinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide, flared dor- sally, dorsal edge may be irregular. Cauda: Long, narrow and straight, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed above ostium and after caudal flexion, ridge¬ like above anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Approximately oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow, wide groove from caudal tip to ostium. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. LUTJANIDAE Nelson No. 316 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval-ovate to fusiform or ap¬ proximately rhomboidal (at least juvs); up to c. 23 mm OD. Ostium approximately oval to oblong; cauda usually flexed near tip, may be gently flexed along the length; rarely, almost straight. Hetero¬ sulcoid with ostial openings although in some species the cauda not distinctly closed and may open into ventral depression. Colli¬ culi heteromorph with low but usually distinct anterior colliculum, posterior colliculum indented and indistinct but margins usually 129 visible. Otolith usually strongly convex, antirostrum often has groove along it, which may join up with dorsal margin groove. Key la. Otolith approximately obovate to oblong; ostium flares widely dorsally and ventrally; cauda wide, walls rough; ventral margin of otolith may be notched under caudal tip . Macolorniger 181.20 lb. Otolith oval-ovate, rounded-ovate, rhomboidal or fusiform; ostium does not flare widely dorsally and ventrally; cauda moderately narrow, walls notrough; cauda without notch under caudal tip . 2 2a. Otolith ovate to fusiform; rostrum elongate, moderate to narrow; dorsal margin of otolith highly irregular, dentate and digitate . 3 2b. Otolith oval-ovate or rhomboidal; rostrum short and broad; dorsal margin of otolith slightly irregular, irregular or crenate . 6 3a. Antirostrum large and moderately broad; cauda flared, flexed and deeper at tip; dorsal margin of otolith well rounded . Aprion virescens 181.3 3b. Antirostrum relatively small; cauda narrow; dorsal margin of otolith rounded . 4 4a. Rostrum broad but with tip pointed; ventral depression under caudal tip broad; cauda gently flexed along its length, tip may be open to ventral depression (juveniles with angled ventral margin) . . Pristipomoides filamentosus 181.22 4b. Rostrum elongate or large, rounded or sharply rounded; ventral margin markedly depressed, may be groove-like under ostium; cauda flexed near tip . 5 5a. Dorsal area raised; cauda gently flexed in posterior third; ostium approximately oval .. Etelis coruscans 181.4 5b. Dorsal area less raised; cauda gently flexed near tip; ostium elongate oblong .... Aphareus rutilans 181.2 6a. Otolith rhomboidal to oblong; rostrum relatively short . 7 6b. Otolith oval-ovate, rostrum relatively more elongate . 8 7a. Ostium oval; cauda slightly curved; caudal tip indistinct; anterior colliculum not distinctly raised . . Pristipomoides argyrogrammicus 181.- 7b. Ostium more elongate oval; caudal tip open; anterior colliculum raised and distinct . . Pristipomoides zonatus 181.24 8a. Otolith oval-ovate, approaching fusiform; ventral depression under caudal tip distinct . 9 8b. Otolith oval to oval-ovate; ventral depression less distinct or absent . 10 9a. Dorsal wall of ostium bulbous; anterior end of ventral depression deep and rounded. . . Paracaesio sordida 181.- 9b. Dorsal wall of ostium approximately straight; anterior end of ventral depression shallow, elongate . Paracaesio xanthura 181. 21 10a. Cauda gently flexed along its length . 11 10b. Cauda straight, flexed near tip . 14 11a. Otolith approximately oval . 12 lib. Otolith oval-ovate or oblong-ovate . 13 12a. Dorsal and ventral margins of otolith well rounded; dorsal margin depressed with groove; ventral groove close to ventral margin; ostium flared with anterior lip; cauda gently flexed and moderately deep . . Lutjanus notatus 181.15 12b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded but not depressed, ventral margin slightly rounded; ventral groove absent but margin slightly depressed under caudal tip; ostium oval, elongate with groove along antirostrum; cauda short and flexed along its length . . Lutjanus rivulatus 181.16 13a. Cauda moderately deep, short, ends far from margin; ostium moderately elongate, flared slightly dorsally; ventral margin depressed under caudal tip, no groove present; no groove on antirostrum . . Lutjanus sebae 181.19 1 3b. Cauda moderately deep, ends close to margin; ostium flared dorsally and ventrally; ventral margin not distinctly depressed, ventral groove close to ventral margin present; antirostrum with groove . Lutjanus russellii 181.17 1 3c. Cauda deep tip ends well short of margin; ostium flared dorsally; ventral margin depressed below caudal tip, no groove present; no groove on antirostrum but pit above ostium may be present . . . Lutjanus sanguineus 181.18 14a. Ventral margin of ostium with distinct crista . 15 14b. Ventral margin of ostium poorly defined . 16 15 a. Ostium oblong, narrow and elongate; ventral wall of ostium approximately straight; cauda sharply flexed, tip short; rostrum short, broad and sharply rounded; antirostrum groove present . Lutjanus fulviflamma 181.8 15b. Ostium oval and moderately elongate, its ventral margin slightly sinuous; cauda deep and sharply flexed becoming less sharply flexed with growth; rostrum large, broad and sharply rounded; antirostrum groove present .... Lutjanus argentimaculatus 181.5 15c. Ostium oval, ventral margin horizontal; cauda straight , sharply flexed in second 1/2; rostrum broad and rounded; antirostrum groove present . . . Lutjanus fulvus 181.9 15d. Ostium approximately oval, filled with colliculum with steep dorsal wall, ventral margin of ostium slightly sinu¬ ous; cauda straight, strongly flexed, tip may be slightly flared; rostrum moderate, broad and sharply rounded; antirostrum groove present . . Lutjanus lutjanus 181.13 15e. Ostium approximately oval, its ventral wall slightly sinuous; cauda flexed along second 1/2, moderately deep; rostrum short, broad and sharply rounded; antirostrum groove present; ventral area of otolith broad and distinct - . Lutjanus kasmira 181.11 1 6a. Rostrum short, broad and sharply rounded; ostium flared; cauda deep; deep groove on antirostrum; dorsal depression absent . Lutjanus gibbus 181 .10 16b. Rostrum short, broad and blunt; ostium oval and slightly flared dorsally; short, shallow groove on antirostrum; dorsal depression shallow . Lutjanus bohar 181.6 Aphareus rutilans, SSF No. 181.2 PLATE 77 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific; extends south to Durban. Attains 1 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (13.6, 17.28 mm OD, 650, 900 mm 1L), PEM 15609, 1408H; Comoro Ids, Kosi Bay; Id. PCH, lodged in JLBSII. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, highly dentate or digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, dentate to digitate and irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior and indistinct, low posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, narrow and elongate lying mainly on the rostrum. Cauda: Steep walls, gently flexed deep tip, not distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 130 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like above cauda and absent at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent, margin may be depressed. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed, becoming groove-like under ostium. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle varied. Aprion virescens, SSF No. 181.3 PLATE 77 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo- Pacific; occasionally caught off Natal and once found at Knysna. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 6/27 (7 . 1 -9.8 mm OD, 35 1 -8 1 6 mm TL), PEM 8406, 8487, 8494, 8480, 1658 (RUSI 8538), 8387; Sodwana, Kosi and Kini Bays; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Short lip on ventral margin. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, dentate or digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate anteri¬ orly becoming serrate and dentate (>8 mm OD). Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and dentate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low and indistinct col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared and wide. Cauda: Gently flexed with steep ventral wall and slightly flared at tip, tip closer to posterior margin with growth. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above ostium to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow above neck. Ventral de¬ pression: Oval under caudal tip becoming deep with growth. Rostrum: Large, broad, moderately elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate or deep, angle acute. Etelis coruscans, SSF No. 181.4 PLATE 77 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical/subtropical Indo-Pacific, extends south to the Bashee River (32°S). Attains 120 cm. MATERIAL: 5/11 (4.2-16.0 mm OD, 127-875 mm TL), PEM 5067, 14546 (RUSI 31436), 8496, 8478, 8381; Sodwana, Mauri¬ tius and Kenya; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate (<7.4 mm OD) becoming fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate becoming dentate and digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate becoming serrate or dentate. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate (<7.4 mm OD) becoming pointed and dentate or digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio-caudal (>c. 9 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate and oval with a steep dorsal wall and lying mainly on the rostrum. Cauda: Elongate and approximately horizontal with slight flex in posterior third; the deep tip is not closed in large otoliths. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.9, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like to flexion, may be absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, margin depressed. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small or moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch and angle variable. Lutjanus argentimaculatus, SSF No. 181.5 PLATE 77 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and tropical Indo-West Pacific region, south to East London. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 5/14 (8.2-15.78 mm OD, 200-636 mm TE, 0462 not measured), PEM 0733, 5916 (RUSI 16103), 7431, 1922 (RUSI 11162), 0462; Natal to southeastern Cape; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH, RvdE. Otolith shape: Oval to rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly crenate, dentate or irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or dentate. Posterior margin: Oblique and bluntly rounded, crenate, dentate or irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, moderately elongate and deep, dorsal rostral margin is uneven. Cauda: Straight and sharply flexed in juveniles (9 mm OD), may join margin groove. Rostrum: Large, broad, becoming elongate and rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Pristipomoides argyrogrammicus (Valenciennes, 1831) SSF No. 181.— PLATE 79 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific from Sa¬ moa to Mauritius and from New Caledonia northwards to southern Japan. Attains 40 cm TL, common to 25 cm (Allen 1985). MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.7 mm OD, 185 mm TL), PEM 14523 (RUSI 31445); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH, WDA. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave anteriorly, convex posteriorly. Dorsal margin: Raised, angled and flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior raised, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, slightly angled dorsally. Cauda: Dorsal wall very slightly flexed, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Ab¬ sent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above ante¬ rior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow from neck to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pristipomoides filamentosus, SSF No. 181.22 PLATE 79 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific; extends south to East London. Attains 90-100 cm. MATERIAL: 4/13 (7.2-13.7 mm OD, 180-585 mm TL), PEM 14521 (RUSI 31387), 2782, 5680, 8376; KosiBay, SodwanaBay, Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH, WDA. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal (<9 mm OD) becoming fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, digitate and very irregular. Ventral margin: Angled (<9 mm OD) becoming slightly rounded, serrate anteriorly, digitate posteriorly. Posterior margin: Oblique and rounded becoming pointed with growth, and very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, cauda open, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with ante¬ rior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, deep, lies mainly along rostrum. Cauda: Gently flexed, deep and tip may open to ventral depression. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Above ostium poorly developed (<9 mm OD), ridge-like in large otoliths; ridge-like along cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Margin depressed from below neck to caudal tip, depression broad. Rostrum: Long, broad and usually pointed, may be sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate becoming wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Pristipomoides zonatus, SSF No. 181.24 PLATE 79 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific from Delagoa Bay to Hawaii. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (11.0-16.9 mm OD, 232475 mm TL), PEM 14537 (RUSI 31429), 15610, 15600; Mauritius, Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH, lodged in JLBSH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal becoming oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and flattened, becoming slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular becoming notched and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular and notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, but caudal tip not closed, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum oval and raised, posterior low and indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, moderately deep. Cauda: Deep, narrow and almost straight, tip indistinct, ends close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above anterior ostium and near tip, ridge-like along anterior cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed 134 under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, above anterior cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, margin groove in large otoliths. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded, may have slight dorsal flexion. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. CAESIONIDAE Nelson No. 317 Family characteristics: Only one species available. Otoliths ob¬ long up to at least 9 mm OD. Margins crenate to irregular; not highly indented or digitate. Heterosulcoid, ostium oblong, cauda flexed along its length. Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Ventral depression below caudal tip. Otolith form similar to Lutjanidae. Caesio teres , SSF No. 182.2 PLATE 80 DISTRIBUTION: Seychelles and Kenya to SodwanaBay. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.98 mm OD, 334 mm TL), PEM 2751; Sod¬ wanaBay; Id. MMS, GRA. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Slightly raised ridge near postero- ventral comer. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly notched under caudal tip and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low, posterior indistinct, indented. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oblong, shallow. Cauda: Hexed gently along its length, deepest at tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped above anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, may have a postero-ventral depression below caudal tip. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. LOBOTIDAE Nelson No. 318 Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths oblong up to c. 20 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, ostial opening, cauda closed, ending near margin. Ostium flared dorsally, wall irregular. Heteromorph with distinct but low colliculi. Dorsal and ventral margins of otolith approximately parallel, margins irregular and ventral area often crystalline. Lobotes surinamensis, SSF No. 202.1 PLATE 80 DISTRIBUTION: Found in tropical and subtropical waters of all oceans, in this area from Kromme River (Cape St Francis) north¬ wards. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 5/14 (9.4-20.0 mm OD, 391-790 mm TL), PEM 5689, 14805, 14861 (RUSI 35532), 5903, 8549; Kosi Bay, Richards Bay, Durban and southern Cape; Id. MIS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly raised, flat or notched; sculpture, Dentate, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded or crenate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, both anterior and posterior colliculi low but distinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, dorsal wall distinctly flared anteriorly and irregular. Cauda: Straight, deepening and flexed near tip, ends near margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.5, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well de¬ veloped along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and elongate above crista. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. GERREIDAE Nelson No. 319 Family characteristics: Otolith shape either oval to oval-ovate or oblong up to c. 8.7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, either ostial or ostio-caudal openings. Heteromorph, low anterior and indistinct posterior colliculi. Cristae well developed to ridge-like over cauda. A gap in neck area and ostium poorly defined. Ventral area distinctly and broadly depressed along entire ventral margin. These otoliths form two distinct groups, as shown by the key. Key la. Otolith oblong; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or domed; cauda approximately straight . 2 lb. Otolith approximately oval to oval -ovate; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; cauda distinctly flexed at tip . 3 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith domed; sulcus runs along dorsal margin; sulcus opening ostial; caudal tip closed just short of posterior margin; crista inferior continuous between ostium and cauda . Gerres oyena 194.4 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; sulcus runs along midline of otolith; sulcus opening ostio-caudal; cauda opens onto postero-ventral margin; crista inferior and superior ridge-like along cauda with distinct gap in cristae between ostium and cauda . . Gerres rappi 194.5 3a. Posterior margin of otolith sharply rounded; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded, may be indented; sulcus lies close to dorsal margin . . Gerres acinaces 194.1 3b. Posterior margin of otolith rounded; dorsal margin rounded; sulcus more centrally placed . 4 4a. Sulcus with low collum in neck; caudal tip sharply flexed; caudal tip slightly more elongate; no groove or depression under anterior cauda . . Gerres filamentosus 194.2 4b. Sulcus with no collum present in neck, step up to cauda in large otoliths; cauda sharply flexed, almost right-angled in juveniles; caudal tip short; shallow, short groove under anterior cauda . . . Gerres oblongus 194.3 Gerres acinaces , SSF No. 194.1 PLATE 80 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific south to Algoa Bay. At¬ tains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (3.95-8.7 mm OD, 107-320 mm TL), PEM 15449 (RUSI 40567), 15343, 14575; Mauritius, Kosi System and ORI; Id. MJS, DC, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and indented; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, poorly defined, widely separated from cauda by collum. Cauda: Sinuous, strongly flexed and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1, 1:1.7, 1:1.4. Collum: Low and rounded wall-like structure reaching level of ventral area, separates ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium, ridge-like above cauda. Crista inferior: Poor under 135 ostium, ridge-like under anterior cauda becoming well developed but absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate from front of otolith to caudal flexion. Ventral depression: Ventral area elevated, plateau-like, along cauda; ventral margin widely depressed. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad, may be pointed or blunt. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Gerres filamentosus, SSF No. 194.2 PLATE 80 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, common in northern part of this area; strays as far south as AlgoaBay. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (3.65-5.7 mm OD, 115-155 mm TL), PEM 15345, 1021, 0362; Natal, Swartkops and Kosi System; Id. GJBR, ALB, DC. Otolith shape: Oval to oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, dentate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ante¬ rior colliculum slightly raised, posterior indented and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval and short. Cauda: Narrow, slightly sinuous, strongly flexed. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:1.5. Collum: Low, separates ostium and cauda. Crista superior: Very poor over ostium, ridge-like above cauda to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, ridge-like at neck, well developed to tip. Dorsal depression: Shallow, over crista, poorly defined. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral area broadly depressed at margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Gerres oblongus, SSF No. 194.3 PLATE 80 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific south to Kosi Bay. At¬ tains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/1 1 (2.4-7.2 mm OD, 55-242 mm TL), PEM 2067, 2066, 15346, 5972; Natal, Kosi System and ORI; Id. PCH, DC. Otolith shape: Oval to oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming notched with growth; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, a low anterior, indented and indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Ap¬ proximately oval and short. Cauda: Slightly sinuous then sharply flexed, almost right-angled in juveniles (<4 mm OD), tip short. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:1.6, 1:1.9, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Crista superior: Very poor above ostium, ridge-like elsewhere, poor to absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, poor at neck, anterior cauda ridge-like becoming well developed posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Elongate from neck to flexion. Ventral de¬ pression: Shallow, short groove under anterior cauda, ventral area broadly depressed near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small, sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderate, angle wide. Gerres oyena, SSF No. 194.4 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific, south to Kosi Bay. At¬ tains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (4.1-5.58 mm OD, 115-183 mm TL), 0609H, 061 1H, 0610H, PEM 15729 & 15728 (both RUSI 42707); Red Sea; Id. IP, HM, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Thick, wing¬ like ventro-lateral wing along otolith. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Long ventro-lateral wing present. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, domed in centre; sculpture, sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flattened and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or pointed and entire or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, an¬ terior colliculum may penetrate excisura, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally. Cauda: Narrow, flexed slightly near tip, ends near postero-dorsal margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.9, 1:1.9, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like above posterior ostium and over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, anterior cauda ridge-like, well developed posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate above cauda, dorsal area extremely reduced, but with central dome. Ventral depression: Absent, a groove below crista, ventral area broadly depressed at margin. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Anti- rostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent. Gerres rappi, SSF No. 194.5 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Apparently a temperate species ranging from Algoa Bay into southern Mozambique; also reported from Mada¬ gascar. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (5.28-7.26 mm OD, 82-121 mm SL), PEM 15348, 0141H, 15347; Kosi system and Swartkops; Id. DC, TH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Steep ventral edge. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval. Cauda: Separated from ostium, slightly angled ventrally, approximately straight, opens onto postero- ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4, 1:1.5. Col¬ lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poor above ostium, ridge-like along cauda, absent at anterior cauda and tip. Crista inferior: Low ridge under ostium, high ridge below cauda but absent at anterior cauda and tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate and deep along narrow dorsal area. Ventral depression: Deep below ostium, broadens under cauda; ventral area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. HAEMULIDAE Nelson No. 320 Family characteristics: Differences in the otoliths suggest that the genus Pomadasys should be placed in a different family, or least subfamily. Plectorhinchus and Diagramma: Otoliths oblong up to c. 17 mm. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium flared dorsally and ventrally, elongate. Cauda strongly flexed, often recurved. Het- eromotph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculi. Pomadasys: Otoliths approximately rounded-oval, well rounded ventral margins, up to c. 26 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium oval to oblong with ventral wall approximately horizontal. Cauda gently curved or strongly flexed, none recurved. Heteromorph, low colliculi. Key la. Otolith oblong . 2 lb. Otolith oval . 10 2a. Ostium short, widely flared . 3 136 2b. Ostium moderate to elongate . 4 3a. Ostium very short, V-shaped; cauda recurved with narrow tip; groove under cauda to flexion; posterior margin oblique and bluntly rounded . . Plectorhinchus schotaf 179.8 3b. Ostium more elongate, less V-shaped; cauda strongly recurved; groove from ventral margin to caudal tip; posterior margin of otolith blunt . . Plectorhinchus playfairi 179.7 4a. Cauda strongly recurved; depressed posterior margin . 5 4b. Cauda curved or somewhat recurved; posterior margin not depressed . 6 5a. Posterior margin sharply rounded; caudal tip recurved but not narrowed; crista superior with break or several breaks along ridge; dorsal depression oval and very shallow . D ia gramma pictum 179.1 5b. Posterior margin sharply rounded or blunt; caudal tip narrow and recurved; crista superior continuous along sulcus; dorsal depression distinct and postero-ventral mar¬ gin angled and depressed . . Plectorhinchus chubbi 179.2 6a. Dorsal margin of otolith flattened . 7 6b. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded . 8 7a. Posterior margin sharply rounded, rounded or blunt but wide; caudal flexion close to posterior margin; caudal tip moderately close to ventral margin . . Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus 179.3 7b. Posterior margin narrows but blunt; caudal flexion far from posterior margin; caudal tip ends very close to ventral margin . . . Plectorhinchus plagiodesmus 179.6 8a. Caudal flexion right-angled with short recurved tip; ventral area uneven, rippled appearance . . Plectorhinchus sordidus 179.9 8b. Cauda flexed but not right-angled, tip more elongate; ventral area may be uneven, not rippled .... 9 9a. Cauda recurved with blunt deep tip; no depression under flexion; rostrum sharply rounded . . Plectorhinchus gaterinus 179.4 9b. Cauda with shorter recurved tip; depression or groove under crista at flexion; rostrum pointed . . Plectorhinchus gibbosus 179.5 10a. Dorsal margin of otolith flat; otolith oblong, appears elongate . Pomadasys striatum 179.18 10b. Dorsal margin raised or rounded; otoliths rounded- oval appears broad and rounded . 11 11a. Ostium short and broad . 12 lib. Ostium moderate to elongate and narrow . 13 12a. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded or slightly angled; postero-ventral comer of ostium c. right-angled; cauda very short, straight initially, flexed in posterior third, tip short . Pomadasys olivaceum 179 .17 12b. Dorsal margin raised and angled; postero-ventral comer of ostium bulges posteriorly; cauda sharply flexed, almost right-angled, tip elongate . . Pomadasys maculatum 179.15 13a. Dorsal margin of otolith raised and angled . 14 13b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded, may be slightly raised . 15 14a. Ventral margin of otolith well rounded to bulbous; ventral margin of ostium sinuous; cauda curved along its length, tip not pointed . . Pomadasys commersonnii 179.10 14b. Ventral margin of otolith rounded; ventral margin of ostium straight; cauda curved more strongly with elongate tip narrow and pointed . . Pomadasys furcatum 179.11 15a. Cauda gently curved along its length, narrowing to tip; ventral area very broad and rounded . . Pomadasys multimaculatum 179.16 15b. Cauda flexed either at half its length or near tip; ventral area narrower . 16 16a. Ostium relatively broad (cf. 179.13), postero-ventral comer of ostium with posterior lobe; flexion near caudal tip; ventral margin groove from under ostium, under caudal tip around to depressed posterior margin; posterior margin tapered and oblique . . Pomadasys stridens 179.19 16b. Ostium relatively narrow, postero-ventral comer of ostium rounded not lobed posteriorly; flexion of cauda at half its length; ventral margin groove absent, posterior margin without depression; posterior margin broad and rounded . Pomadasys kaakan 179. 13 Diagramma pictum , SSF No. 179.1 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific to Natal. Attains c. 1 m. MATERIAL: 3/3 (15.4-16.4 mm OD; 635-700 mm TL), PEM 5933, 5678, 5677; Zululand and Durban; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with very low anterior, indistinct and low posterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, ventral wall angled. Cauda: Straight, becoming strongly flexed with steep walls posteriorly, recurved near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 5933 broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, may be ridge-like over anterior cauda (possibly discontinuous), well de¬ veloped after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed to ridge-like under anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent, but may be small depression postero-ventral to caudal tip. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Plectorhinchus chubbi, SSF No. 179.2 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Transkei to Kenya and India. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (4.45-11.12 mm OD, 131-584 mm TL), PEM 0457, 6153, 0727; Durban; Id. MJS, GJBR, RvdE. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Flattened and slightly crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ante¬ rior colliculum slightly raised, posterior low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, V-shaped posteriorly, ventral wall angled ventrally. Cauda: Straight becoming strongly flexed, deeper and recurved with narrow tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium, ridge-like above anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, ridge-like below cauda but well-developed after flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate. Ventral de- 137 pression: May have groove, and may be a groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus, SSF No. 179.3 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red SeatoTranskei. Attains at least 60 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (9. 1- 1 1.0 mm OD, 369-557 mm TL) PEM 8500, 15401 (RUSI 40604), 0656H, 6778, [15378 (RUSI 40573)]; Sod- wan a, Madagascar and ORI; Id. TH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusti- cus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anteri¬ or, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oblong, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Straight then strongly flexed and recurved, steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate over most of dorsal area or small and shallow at flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to flexion. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Plectorhinchus gaterinus, SSF No. 179.4 PLATE 81 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea south to Natal, Mauritius, Madagascar and Comoro Ids. MATERIAL: 2/4 (6.68, 12.68 mm OD, 180 mm TL, 1056H not recorded), PEM 0500, 1056H; East London, Red Sea; Id. CP, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded; slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct nodular posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, large and deep. Cauda: Straight then strongly flexed with blunt and deep tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like along straight section of cauda (juvs)> well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Small and oval, close to margin, distinct in large otoliths. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove or pit anterior to caudal tip. Rostrum: Large broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent (<12 mm OD), becoming small and pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch may be absent in small otoliths, moderate in adults, angle acute. Plectorhinchus gibbosus, SSF No. 179.5 PLATE 82 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (6.92-13.3 mm OD, 180-612 mm TL), PEM 0729, 7453, 7454; Kosi Bay and Durban; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, dentate to crenate. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum protrudes through excisura, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, long ventral, short dorsal wall. Cauda: Straight, strongly flexed and slightly recur¬ ved. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed over ostium, low ridge over cauda (19 mm OD) crista absent, ridge-like above anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, oval and shallow from ostium to above cauda, a second, anterior depression over ostium in large otoliths. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Broad and sharply rounded becoming elongate with growth. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderately wide becoming wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Boopsoidea inornata, SSF No. 183.6 PLATE 84 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from the Cape to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 6/40 (3.1-10.2 mm OD, 59-266 mm TL), PEM 10332, 7522, 7521, 1880 (RUSI 8973), 6816, 9585; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal becoming oval with growth. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate or irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Approximately straight and shal¬ low, flexed near tip, tip very poorly defined and narrows slightly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 9585 lost. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over anterior cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, narrow, shallow groove may be present near margin on large otoliths (c. 8 mm OD). Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed or absent. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cheimerius nufar , SSF No. 183.7 PLATE 84 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo- Pacific. Extends to the Cape. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 6/210 (4.8-17.8 mm OD, 104-565 mm FL), PEM 4891, 6767, 1557, 1860, 5819, 5772, [6764 (RUSI 28380)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal becoming ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and flattened or raised; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Angular (<6.8 mm OD), becoming rounded; crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or oblique and angular, crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, becoming elongate, dorsal wall very short. Cauda: Slightly sinuate, strongly flexed near tip, walls steep may undercut ventral area. Shallow groove from caudal tip to margin may be present. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, LI. 3. Collum: Absent Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like above cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep, oval becoming approxi- 143 mately rectangular (>17 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Chrysoblephus anglicus, SSF No. 183.8 PLATE 85 DISTRIBUTION: Found only on east coast, reaches Algoa Bay. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 6/50 (9.1-13.1 mm OD, 307-647 mm TL), PEM 8650, 5675, 8657, 8669, 7763, 7759; ORI, Transkei, Zululand; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, angled posteriorly, crenate to irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, oblique and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum raised, posterior very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares widely, ventral wall slightly sinuate, approximately rounded to oval. Cauda: Deep, strongly flexed and deepening posteriorly, undercuts ventral area, tip ends close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above anterior ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well devel¬ oped after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be short groove at margin. May be pit under caudal tip, ventral area may be irregular. Rostrum: Large, very broad and rounded to sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chrysoblephus cristiceps, SSF No. 183.9 PLATE 85 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from the Cape to Natal, most abun¬ dant on Cape south coast. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 8/30 (5.0-19.72 mm OD, 1 14-C.600 mm TL), PEM 5481, 5483, 7028, 7029, 0014, 5846, 3428, 0152; Cape south coast, Id. GJBR, MJS, CDB, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, dentate or serrate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to dentate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, dentate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, distinct anterior, indistinct pos¬ terior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval. Cauda: Gently flexed along its length, steep ventral wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted, mainly ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped above ostium, may join groove in antirostrum, ridge-like above cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow, may be an anterior groove into ostium through crista superior. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded, becoming rounded (c. 12.2 mm OD). Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Chrysoblephus gibbiceps , SSF No. 183.10 PLATE 85 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from the Cape to Natal. Attains 75 on. MATERIAL: 5/32 (8.6-15.22 mm OD, 257-544 mm TL, 0016 not measured), PEM 10794, 15095, 6803, 6830, 0016; Cape south coast; Id. GJBR, MJS, CDB. Otolith shape: V ariable, approximately oval, rhomboidal to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, serrate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or becoming more pointed, crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with raised anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, colli¬ culum raised on dorsal margin of rostrum. Cauda: Distinctly angled ventrally, short and gently flexed, may be groove from tip to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and over flexion, ridge-like above anterior cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow from ostium to flexion, dorsal area wide. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from margin meets caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies - acute or wide. Chrysoblephus laticeps, SSF No. 183.11 PLATE 85 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs from the Cape (to Mauritius?). Attains at least 50 cm. MATERIAL: 5/35 (2.65-13.5 mm OD, 76-436 mm TL), PEM 1949, 7032, 10887, 10882, 6828; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, CDB. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, flattened and angular, crenate to irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with raised anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval. Cauda: Straight then strongly flexed in posterior, may be groove from caudal tip to margin. Juveniles (c. 2.7 mm OD) have almost straight cauda, slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.2, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate from posterior ostium to caudal flexion. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, a shallow groove may be present close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent or shallow, angle acute. Chrysoblephus tophus , SSF No. 183.12 PLATE 85 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Natal. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (12.0 mm OD, 435 mm TL), PEM 6278; Port Dumford; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and notched; sculpture, lobed to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Angled, oblique and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior, low, posterior colliculum very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Large, oval and flared. Cauda: Angled ventrally, gently curved, flexed near tip, walls steep. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like (broken) above cauda, well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed below ostium, very well developed or low ridge below cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and oval in shape. Ventral depression: Shallow and 144 narrow under crista, ventral groove near margin. Rostrum; Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or very shallow, angle wide. Chrysoblephus puniceus, SSF No. 183.13 PLATE 86 DISTRIBUTION: Common off Natal and southern Mozambique and Madagascar; occasionally to East London and Knysna. At¬ tains 85 cm. MATERIAL: 6/149 (8.1-14.9 mm OD, 207-516 mm TL), PEM 7527 (RUSI 21231), 8469 (RUSI 37503), 7755, 8649, 7753, 8481, [8466, 8467 (RUSI 37503), 8798 (RUSI 37438)]; Natal, Sodwana Bay, Algoa Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, dentate and irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and irregular, dentate or crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, angled and sharply rounded, dentate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col- I ic ulum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior col- liculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flared dorsally, sinuous ventral wall. Cauda: Slightly angled ventraliy with short flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventxally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate from ostium along cauda to ventral margin. Ventral depression: Absent, may be very shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow and angle acute, if present. Crenidens crenidens, SSF No. 183.14 PLATE 86 DISTRIBUTION : Known from the Red Sea and Persian Gulf to Durban, rarely to East London. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 6/10 (4.15-6.56 mm OD, 101-180 mm TL), PEM 2053, 2050, 2049, 20*7, 2051, 2048, [15557, 15574 & 15731 (all RUSI 42685)]; ORI; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, lobed and slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular or entire. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded or blunt and slightly crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, moderately broad, flared dorsally. Cauda: Initially straight, dorsal wall more sttongly flexed than venttal, narrows towards poorly defined dp. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, but ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus but absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval, moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove from caudal tip to ostium. Rostrum: Broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute if present. Cymatoceps nasutus , SSF No. 183.15 PLATE 86 DISTRIBUTION: From Cape to Natal. Attains c. 130 cm, 45 kg. MATERIAL: 6/35 (3.6-21.0 mm OD, 96-1740 mm FL = 32.4kg), PEM 6808, 15168, 15263, 6806, 6805, 1970; southern Cape and Transkei; Id. GJBR, MJS, CDB. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal becoming oval to oval-ovate. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Later¬ al strongly concave. Lateral surface: May have ventral lip at margin in large otoliths (>10 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming well rounded; sculpture, dentate, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anteri¬ or, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flares dorsally and ventraliy, dorsal wall slopes in large otoliths (>10 mm OD). Cauda: Slightly sinuous ventral margin, straight with flexion near tip in juvs, deepens posteriorly, cauda deeper with growth. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow from ostium to flexion. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be a groove at the margin in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate becoming wide, notch shallow, angle acute if present. Diplod us cervinus hottentotus , SSF No. 183.16 PLATE 86 DISTRIBUTION: From the Cape to Sodwana Bay. Attains 60cm. MATERIAL: 8/49 (2.8-12.36 mm OD, 59-c. 431 mm TL), PEM 5300, 2616 (RUSI 12511), 5553, 5560, 6016, 1204, 7430, 0507; southern Cape and Kosi Bay; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Antero-ventral lip present in otoliths >10 mm, dorsal margin grooved and thickened. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded (<4 mm OD) becoming flattened (>4 mm OD); sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or oblique and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum very low, posterior very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flares dorsally. Cauda: Angled slightly ven¬ traliy, gently flexed near tip, deepening posteriorly, undercutting ventral area, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in largest otoliths (>10 mm OD). Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed especially near caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Diplodus sargus capensis, SSF No. 183.17 PLATE 86 DISTRIBUTION: From Angola to Mozambique and southern Madagascar. Attains 45cm. MATERIAL: 7/95 (1.52-8.7mmOD, 33-331 mmTL),PEM 1420, 1202, 9606, 3859 (RUSI 12032), 8701, 6200, 6205, [6570 (RUSI 37500)]; Natal and southern Cape; Id. RvdE, PCH, HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate becoming oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Characteristic and pronounced dorsal lip near emarginate area in otoliths >3.9 mm. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded (c. 1.5 mm OD), becoming distinctly emarginate (c. 4 mm OD); sculpture, entire or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded (c. 1.5 mm OD) becoming flattened, oblique, sharply rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. 145 Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, ventral wall may become bulbous (c. 8 mm OD). Cauda: Slightly sinuous, flexed and flared, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed becoming ridge-like under ostium in large otoliths, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate from ostium to flexion, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed may be distinct below ostium. Rostrum: Broad and blunt or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or moderate, angle varies. Gymnocrotaphus curvidens, SSF No. 183.18 PLATE 87 DISTRIBUTION: From Cape to Durban, attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 8/17 (2.4-10.62 mm OD, 54-379 mm TL), PEM 7714, 10337,0004, 11327, 11346, 7026, 14814, 5813; AlgoaBay and environs; Id. MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or approximately flat; sculpture, crenate to slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Oblique, flattened, sharply rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip, deepens posteriorly. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.4, 1:1.6, 1:1.4, 7026 lost. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, broad ridge above anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, may be low ridge under ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval, moderately deep, more elongate with growth. Ventral depression: May be shallow depression under ostium, may be shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or shallow, angle acute. Lithognathus aureti, SSF No. 183.19 PLATE 87 DISTRIBUTION: From Cape Town to Angola, common off Na¬ mibia. Attains c. 100 cm. MATERIAL: 6/30 (9.72-11.94 mm OD, 375-550 mm 1L), PEM 1804, 1810, 1808, 1802, 1800, 1793; Namibia; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Ventral margin may have lip (c. 1 1 .9 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, serrate to irregular. Ventral margin: Flattened or slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, flattened and sharply rounded or pointed with postero- ventral comer extended, serrate, digitate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, ventral margin poorly defined. Cauda: Straight and elongate, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moder¬ ately well developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and caudal tip, well developed under cauda. Dorsal de¬ pression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove near margin. Rostrum: Very short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed or rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. Lithognathus lithognathus , SSF No. 183.20 PLATE 87 DISTRIBUTION: From Orange River mouth to Natal. Attains 200 cm. MATERIAL: 7/25 (5.48-14.0 mm OD, 150-785 mm FL), PEM 10449, 2573, 1323, 1219, 1342, 1226, 5723; southern Cape coast; Id. MJS, HMK. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate or very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, ventral mar¬ gin sinuous. Cauda: Straight, flexed posteriorly, may have groove from tip to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over anterior cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Lithognathus mormyrus, SSF No. 183.21 PLATE 87 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean to the Cape and round coast to Mozambique, recorded from Red Sea but none found in tropical east Africa. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 9/32 (3.37-8.29 mm OD, 74-250 mm TL), PEM 4224, 4160, 4218, 4159, 4219, 7438, 7437, 7447, 0505; Cape south coast and Banga Nek; Id. GJBR, PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and raised in centre; sculpture, irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Angled slightly ventrally and gently flexed, tip short. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moder¬ ately well developed above ostium, ridge-like above cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Moderately well devel¬ oped under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove close to margin from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or shallow, angle acute. Pachymetopon aeneum, SSF No. 183.22 PLATE 87 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Cape to Sodwana Bay. At¬ tains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 6/36 (5.28-11.8 mm OD, 120-430 mm TL), PEM 5628, 5630, 10261, 6834, 6833, 9630; ORI and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, CDB. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal becoming oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Oblique and tapered to sharply rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with very low anterior, indistinct poste- 146 rior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approxi¬ mately oval. Cauda: Well defined, straight and gently flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus, becomes a broad ridge in large otoliths. Dorsal depression: Oval becoming elongate from ostium to be¬ yond flexion. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Pachymetopon blochii , SSF No. 183.23 PLATE 88 DISTRIBUTION: West coast of South Africa north to Angola, rarely east of Cape Agulhas. Attains 46 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (9.04-11.2 mm OD, 263-385 mm TL), PEM 0510, 2090, 2193, 11991 (RUSI 27030); Tsitsikamma and off Cape Town; Id. PCH, MJS, SFRI, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised anteriorly then flattened; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and dentate, crenate or ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Oblique, tapered and sharply rounded or pointed, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero- sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, walls (especially ventral) poorly defined. Cauda: Relatively short, gently flexed along length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well devel¬ oped above ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, may extend to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad, moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch, if present, shallow, angle acute. Pachymetopon grande , SSF No. 183.24 PLATE 88 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from the Cape to Madagascar. Attains 65 cm. MATERIAL: 9/33 (9.1-14.0 mm OD, 323485 mm TL), PEM 5371, 5724, 8779, 6773, 15119, 0859, 0550, 0766, 5370; Cape south coast, Kosi Bay, Durban; Id. GJBR, MJS, CDB. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex. - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to notched and lobed; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed, dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, walls moderately well developed. Cauda: Deep with steep walls, becoming strongly flexed with growth. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like below entire sulcus, distinctly broad under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval to elongate from ostium to beyond flexion, may reach dorsal margin as dorsal area erodes with growth. Ventral depression: Narrow, groove-like under crista. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Pagellus bellottii natalensis , SSF No. 183.25 PLATE 88 DISTRIBUTION: This sub-species occurs only from about Mossel Bay to Madagascar. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 9/150 (1.98-9.8 mm OD, 44-234 mm TL), PEM 4243, 3196 (RUSI 11619), 4235, 8586, 6527, 6520, 6524, 3198 (RUSI 11619), 6012; Cape south coast and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal becoming ovate. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approxi¬ mately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming raised and flat¬ tened; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded in juveniles (1 1 .6 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming flattened or emarginate; sculpture, serrate or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded to flattened or slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded becoming flattened or emarginate in large otoliths (c. 14.9 mm OD), and sharply rounded. Sculpture serrate, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal in large otoliths, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph with well developed anterior and indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval becoming elongate. Cauda: Initially slightly flexed, becoming slightly sinuous and strongly flexed near tip, tip not distinctly closed. May be a groove from ventral margin to tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium becoming ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval to elongate, extending to flexion. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, may be groove close to margin in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Polyamblyodon germanum, SSF No. 183.27 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: East London to Delagoa Bay; not uncommon off Transkei. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (10.96 mm OD, 400 mm TL?), 1757H; locality not recorded. 147 Otolith shape: Stubby oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded or angled, bluntly pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, low anterior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and broad. Cauda: Short, deep and sharply flexed, tip undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Coll urn: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well devel¬ oped after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, broad ridge under cauda, well developed at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow and elongate; ridge above depression close to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Narrow depression or groove under cauda. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Polyamblyodon gibbosum, SSF No. 183.28 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to Beira and Madagascar. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 7/1 1 (8.18-13.0 mm OD, c. 350-540 mm TL), PEM 0393, 8548, 9628, 1756H, 8810, 9629, 2726; Natal, KosiBay and Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS, MMS, TH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly and lobed; sculpture, crenate, and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and angled, slightly crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be oblique, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and elongate, dorsal wall very short. Cauda: Straight, deepening and sharply flexed posteriorly with steep walls, groove from margin at tip. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:1.1, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:1.1. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Short, well developed over ostium, broad ridge over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, may be low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, deep and may open to dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, elongate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Polysteganus coeruleopunctatus, SSF No. 183.29 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea to Natal south coast. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 ( 1 2.98-16.92 mm OD, c. 390-407 mm TL), PEM 2703, 6376, 2731; Sodwana Bay and Port Dumford; Id. MMS, MJS. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded and notched; sculpture, dentate. Ventral margin: Rounded and angular, dentate to crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, dentate to digitate. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, relatively short. Cauda: Angled and gently flexed, relatively long, ends near ventral margin, may be groove from margin to tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.7, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, well developed to ridge-like along cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and elongate from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: May be a small, shallow depression anterior to caudal tip, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Polysteganus praeorbitalis , SSF No. 183.31 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Algoa Bay to Beira. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 6/65 (7.6-17.46 mm OD, 233-893 mm TL), PEM 6797, 8341 , 2935, 10330, 6229, 285 1 ; south-eastern Cape and Port Dumford; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, dentate to serrate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flattened and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, crenate, serrate or dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, flexed and deeper near tip, flexed part parallel with posterior wall, tip closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.4, 1:1.6. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped above ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove runs anteriorly from caudal tip along margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Polysteganus undulosus, SSF No. 183.32 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from the Cape to Delagoa Bay. Attains 100 cm, 15 kg. MATERIAL: 5/80 (9.4-14.9 mm OD, 241-497 mm FL), PEM 11755, 11752, 11756, 11758, 11763; southeast coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal becoming approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, dentate, crenate or serrate. Ventral margin: Rounded and angular, dentate, serrate or crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, crenate or den¬ tate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval. Cauda: Gently flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval to elongate and shallow, from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove from ventral margin near caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small, sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Porcostoma dentata, SSF No. 183.33 PLATE 89 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs only in southern Africa, mainly from Beira to Durban, juveniles to the Cape south coast. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 7/31 (2.5-8.62 mm OD, 57-285 mm TL),PEM4102, 5471, 5312, 7528 (RUSI 21233), 8653, 7501, 2083; Bird Island (Algoa Bay), Natal and Cape south coast; Id. PCH, RvdE, MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate and squat. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, sinuate (c. 2.5 mm OD), becoming crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Flattened to 148 slightly rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may ap¬ pear ostio-caudal at c. 8.3 mm OD, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, very indistinct posterior collicu¬ lum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally. Cauda: Slightly angled ventrally, deepening posteriorly, with short flex near tip which extends closer to ventral margin with growth. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like above ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion, may be well developed over ostium in large otoliths (>8 mm OD). Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, becoming shallower with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove from ostium to caudal tip, may be a small depression anterior to caudal tip in large otoliths (>8 mm OD). Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Pterogymnus laniarius , SSF No. 18334 PLATE 90 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs from the Cape to East London; rarely reaches Beira. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 8/129 (2.22-13.8 mm OD, 46-342 mm TL), PEM 5455, 11644, 11641, 3071, 11639, 3086 (RUSI 11636), 3088 (RUSI 11636), 8601; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded ovate (c. 2.2 mm OD) becoming rhom- boidal (c. 6 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded in juveniles, becoming raised and flattened; sculpture, sinuate to crenate. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded and crenate to ser¬ rate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Horizontal and straight, moderately long and gently flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.7, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge- like over ostium and cauda, well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Moderately deep, elongate from ostium to flexion. Ventral depression: Small, under caudal tip, a shallow groove runs from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed (c. 2.2 mm OD) becoming rounded to sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded (c. 2.2 mm OD) becoming small and sharply rounded with growth. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Rhabdosargus globiceps , SSF No. 18335 PLATE 90 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from Angola to Natal. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 6/31 (5.19-11.5 mm OD, 139-375 mm TL), PEM 1311, 3781, 2171 (RUSI 11450), 2174 (RUSI 11450), 5704, 11376, [2172, 2173 (both RUSI 11450)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded (c. 5 mm OD) becoming flattened; sculpture, crenate, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, cre¬ nate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph with low anterior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate oval, ventral wall approximately horizontal. Cauda: Short, gently flexed ventrally more strongly flexed dorsally. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1 ; 1 . 1 , 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval, moderately deep. Ventral depression: May be small and shallow under ostium. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent. Rhabdosargus holubi , SSF No. 18336 PLATE 90 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from the Cape to Natal. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 8/100 (3.4-9.5 mm OD, 88-298 mm TL), PEM 5434, 2480, 3860 (RUSI 11956), 1026, 2460, 2472, 1147, 6573; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. PCH, HMK MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave, increases with growth. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly raised and approximately flat; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and shaiply rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Short, slightly angled ven¬ trally, with short flexion and slightly pointed tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted (>8 mm OD may have ventral constriction only). Ostium/cauda: 1 : 1 .2, 1 : 1 . 1 , 1 : 1 .2, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, may be slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed to tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Shallow depression under caudal tip and very shallow groove near margin from ostium to cauda. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or very shallow, angle wide. Rhabdosargus sarba, SSF No. 18337 PLATE 90 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and tropical Indo-West Pacific region. Common in Natal, reaches Knysna. Attains >12 kg. MATERIAL: 6/25 (4.8-14.4 mm OD, c. 90-590 mm FL), PEM 0017, 9605, 6770, 1976, 2225, 6464; Natal and southern Cape; Id. HMK, MJS, RvdE. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Has ventral lip except in small otoliths (<4.8 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Raised and flattened becoming notched; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Oblique, blunt, postero-ventral comer becomes spurred, crenate to slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Horizontal, sharply flexed and deep, walls become steep (c. 12 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.8 1:1.4. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, short groove anterior to caudal tip in large otoliths (c. 12 mm OD). Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Moderately wide or wide, notch absent Rhabdosargus thorpei, SSF No. 183.38 PLATE 91 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Natal, may reach Port Alfred. Attains 40 cm. 149 MATERIAL: 8/16 (4.9-10.56 mm OD, 110-277 mm FL), PEM 6659, 6662, 6734 (RUSI 28490), 6657 (RUSI 34093), 6735, 5998, 0458, 6114; Mbibi and Durban; Id. MJS, PCH, RvdE. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and flattened; sculpture, crenate and lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul- coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with extremely low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally and ventrally. Cauda: Slightly angled ventrally, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1 ; 1 .2, 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like to flexion then well developed. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval to elongate. Ventral depression: May be a depression posterior to cauda (>5.3 mm OD) and may be ventral groove near margin (>10 mm OD). Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch absent or very shallow, angle wide. Sarpa salpa, SSF No. 183.39 PLATE 91 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic round South Africa to southern Mozambique. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 7/80(2.8-8.21 mm OD, 74-346 mm TL), PEM 5147, 5146, 5148, 4953, 1351, 1352, 2111, [15527 (RUSI 42652)]; southern Cape coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Roundly ovate (c. 3 mm OD) to oblong (c. 7 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Groove under ostium. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded to flattened; sculpture, sinuate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming flattened and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded (c. 3 mm OD) becoming oblique and slightly emarginate (c. 6 mm OD) and ventral comer protruded and pointed. Sculpture sinuate, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low ante¬ rior, very indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval and elongate. Cauda: Gently flexed (c. 3 mm OD), straight and flexed near tip, which is parallel with posterior wall (c. 8 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1;0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like over cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate from ostium to flexion, dorsal area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sparodon durbanensis , SSF No. 183.40 PLATE 91 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from the Cape to Natal. Attains c. 115 cm. MATERIAL: 8/43 ( 1 .5-1 3.4 mm OD, 32-950 mm TL), PEM 6029, 5546, 5547, 4723, 5541, 6195, 6194, 6385; AlgoaBay and vicin¬ ity; Id. MJS, CDB, JRC. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate becoming oblong-ovate or fusi¬ form. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded (<4 mm OD) becom¬ ing emarginate and raised at posterior; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded to slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to oblique, flattened and sharply rounded, lobed to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low, depressed anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, in large otoliths it flares ventrally and lies mainly on rostrum (c. 10 mm OD). Cauda: Slightly flexed (c. 2 mm OD), becoming flexed and extremely deep (c. 6 mm OD), tip ends near postero-ventral comer. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, may be slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Poor over ostium, broad ridge in large (c. 10 mm OD), well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped with steep walls to cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, dorsal area reduces with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, may be short groove near ventral margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate becoming wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Spondyliosoma emarginatum , SSF No. 183.41 PLATE 91 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Saldanha Bay to Natal, common on Cape south coast. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 10/46 (3.6-10.5 mm OD, 78-335 mm TL), PEM 4145, 4211 (RUSI 12779), 4147, 3272 (RUSI 11621), 3271 (RUSI 1 1621), 3275, 3274, 3273 (RUSI 1 1621), 6821, 1 1996; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate becoming oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised and slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate with mid-dorsal knob. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, moderately narrow, dorsal margin may be slightly flared. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly angled ventrally, short flexion tapers near tip. Tip not distinctly closed, may be joined by groove from ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, low step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, well developed to ridge-like over cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval or elongate and moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, may be very shallow groove from mid-ostium to caudal tip, close to margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. CENTRACANTHIDAE Nelson No 323 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths similar in form to Sparidae. Rhomboidal or oval to oblong, up to c. 12 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium oval or oblong with narrow, flexed cauda. Heteromorph, anterior collicu¬ lum may be distinct, posterior very low and indistinct. Cristae well developed, may be ridge-like over anterior cauda. Key la. Otolith rhomboidal, well-rounded ventral margin; ostium oval and broad, usually with distinctly raised anterior colliculum . Spicara australis 184.1 lb. Otolith oval to oblong, ventral margin rounded or slightly rounded; ostium oval to oblong, anterior colliculum low and indistinct . . Spicara axillaris 184.2 Spicara australis, SSF No. 184.1 PLATE 91 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from off Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/8 (6.8-10.72 mm OD, 164-275 mm TL), PEM 14987, 14988, (14985-14989 all RUSI 35596), 0619, 0620; Dur¬ ban and Transkei; Id. GJBR, MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: 150 Angular and flat, or rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded or well rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Approximately rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, distinct anterior, very low posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately broad, with distinct colliculum. Cauda: Straight, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.5. Collum: Ab¬ sent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like above anterior cauda, well developed after flex¬ ion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. Spicara axillaris, SSF No. 184.2 PLATE 91 & 92 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Cape Town to Natal. Attains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 6/45 (5.8-12.0 mm OD, 132-307 mm TL), PEM 11602 (RUSI 28473), 12212, 12556 (RUSI 28378), 12565, 12188, 12211, [7819 (RUSI 20113)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate, thickening with growth. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded (30 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (4.95, 5.9 mm OD, 200, 284 mm TL), PEM 15671, 14532 (RUSI 31466); Comoro Ids, Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Slighdy rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly crenate to irregular. 151 Posterior margin: Rounded, notched ventrally and dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Wide, covers most of rostrum, flared ventrally, opening on to anterior and ventral surface, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Deep, wide with steep walls, very sharp flexion at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, well developed below cauda, may have low ridge under anterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, groove from caudal tip to ostium close to margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Large and pointed with groove to excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Gymnocranius griseus, SSF No. 185.2 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Natal. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 3/26 (5 .7-7.7 mm OD, 175-300 mm TL), PEM 8544 (RUSI 34074), 14538, 14542; Mauritius and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or slightly raised and flattened; sculpture, slightly crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad and elongate, flared ventrally, mainly on rostrum, moderately deep, ending in a V-shape. Cauda: Flexed at tip, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large and shallow. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, very shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Gymnocranius robinsoni, SSF No. 185.3 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Sodwana Bay. At¬ tains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/2(10 mm OD, 450 mm TL), PEM 85 10; Sodwana Bay. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded to blunt, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval, penetrating the neck posteriorly, lying mainly along the rostrum. Cauda: Initially straight, flexed and deepening near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, broad and ridge- like along anterior cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and flat, almost reaches dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin from caudal tip. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Lethrinus crocineus, SSF No. 185.5 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean, south to Natal. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (8.2-12.6 mm OD, 250-455 mm TL), PEM 8334, 8372, 8373; Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Lateral surface: Raised ridge at postero-ventral comer. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and broad, ventral margin slightly sinuous. Cauda: Gently flexed along its length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like over cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed below entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and crescent shaped. Ventral de¬ pression: Shallow below caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Lethrinus elongatus , SSF No. 185.6 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Natal northwards. At¬ tains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 3/45 (6.1-9.2mmOD, 198-353 mm TL), PEM 8505, 8490, 8488; Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, not deep, flares slighdy anteriorly. Cauda: Initially straight, flexed at posterior, deepening at tip. Tip closed but intersected by groove from ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.8, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like above cauda, well developed after flex¬ ion, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Crescentic. Ventral depression: Only a posterior depression under caudal tip, may be shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Lethrinus mahsena, SSF No. 185.11 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Sodwana Bay. At¬ tains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 1/2 (10.28 mm OD, 424 mm TL), 1357H; Eilat; Id. AD. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Lateral surface: Raised ridge at postero-ventral comer. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, irregular or lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and indented posteriorly, crenate or approximately irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded with pointed postero-ventral comer, serrate to dentate. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, ventral wall slightly sinuous. Cauda: Strongly flexed in posterior half, a vertical channel intersects cauda below flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed above 152 ostium, ridge-like along cauda, very poorly developed at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate, follows cauda, dorsal groove below raised area, parallel to anterior cauda, intersects dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent, one groove behind caudal tip and another near ventral margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and tip pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Lethrinus mahsenoides , SSF No. 185.12 PLATE 92 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-West Pacific to Sodwana Bay. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 5/23(6.1-9.8 mm OD, 165-280 mm TL),PEM 8323, 8210, 8540, 8308 (RUSI 34155), 8461 (RUSI 37498), [8353 (RUSI 37498), 8324 (RUSI 37465), 8403 (RUSI 37471)]; Sod¬ wana Bay and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick to thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded with pointed postero- ventral comer and very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval and broad, dorsal wall angled. Cauda: Fairly short and flexed along its length with steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral con¬ strictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, may be small step to cauda (75 cm. MATERIAL: 5/26 (7.8-15.78 mm OD, 250-720 mm TL), PEM 14549 (RUSI 31467), 8354, 8194, 7436, 2735; northern Natal and Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, dentate to irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad and bell-shaped, opens onto anterior and ventral wall. Cauda: Flexed and deeper near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and caudal tip, ridge-like along most of cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire cauda. Dorsal depression: Crescent-shaped, moderately deep, area near margin irregular. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove near margin, or margin slightly depressed. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent to minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle varies. Lethrinus rubrioperculatus , SSF No. 185.15 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Natal. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.8 mm OD, 197 mm TL), PEM 14524 (RUSI 31462); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and approximately oval. Cauda: Straight with short flexion at posterior. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like along cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Crescent-shaped fol¬ lowing cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Lethrinus sanguineus , SSF No. 185.16 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains c. 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.7, 7.4 mm OD, 225, 246 mm TL), PEM 14548, 14547 (RUSI 31432); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and blunt with pointed postero-ventral comer and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad, moderately long and flared anteriorly. Cauda: Straight with deep, sharp flexion. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after caudal flexion, ridge-like along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate, approximately oval, following cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Absent or minute. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Lethrinus variegatus, SSF No. 185.17 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 4/8 (7.1-8.94 mm OD, 270-395 mm TL), PEM 8530 (RUSI 37469), 4361, 8202 (RUSI 37464), 4622, [8529 (RUSI 37514), 8260 (RUSI 37461), 8253 (RUSI 37462), 8252 (RUSI 37463), 8521 (RUSI 37470)]; Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Ridge under postero-ventral tip and V-shaped groove under ostium. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded with sharply rounded postero-ventral comer, crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate flared, dorsal edge of rostrum raised. Cauda: Broad, short flexion deepens posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. 153 Monotaxis grandoculis, SSF No. 185.19 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific from Hawaii to Natal. Attains c. 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.5 mm OD, 507 mm TL), PEM 7434; Banga Nek; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Sinu¬ ous to flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, slightly emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with very low anterior, indistinct pos¬ terior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very elongate, approximately rectangular, mainly on elongate rostrum. Cauda: Deep and flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after caudal flexion, ridge-like above cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, curved shal¬ low groove meets ventral margin. Rostrum: Elongate, tapered and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. NEMIPTERIDAE Nelson No. 325 Family characteristics: Although similar to the Sparidae, the two species described here are very different from each other, possibly suggesting variation greater than generic differences. The otoliths are rounded-ovate or ovate to fusiform. Up to at least 7.9 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium oval or narrow and elongate, cauda straight, flexed near tip ending close to margin. Heteromorph, low colliculi. Key la. Otolith rounded-ovate; otolith broad; rostrum large and broad; ostium bulbous ventrally . . Nemipterus bipunctatus 186.1 lb. Otolith ovate to fusiform; otolith relatively narrow; rostrum moderately elongate or elongate; ostium narrow and elongate . 2 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith raised becoming peaked and lobed becoming digitate; cauda slightly flexed with short tip, ends well short of postero-ventral comer; crista superior well developed over ostium, low ridge over cauda . Parascolopsis eriomma 186.3 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded and irregular; cauda flexed, tip more elongate, ends close to postero-ventral comer of otolith; crista superior forms distinct, high ridge along ostium and anterior cauda . Scolopsis vosmeri 186.6 Nemipterus bipunctatus, SSF No. 186.1 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indian Ocean and Per¬ sian Gulf, south to Delagoa Bay. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (7 .2, 7.88 mm OD, 1 84, 2 1 2 mm TL), PEM 040 1 , 0400; Durban fish market; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Very thick, especially in middle. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave to flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, ventral wall bulbous, ventral constriction right-angled. Cauda: Approxi¬ mately horizontal, strongly flexed and deep at tip, may be groove from margin to tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral- ly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge- like from neck to tip of cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow from neck to flexion. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, low ridge near margin, may be a groove under ostium, lower ventral area rugose. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Parascolopsis eriomma, SSF No. 186.3 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea, south to Delagoa Bay. Attains 25cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (5.1-8.28 mm OD, c. 140-274 mm TL), 0333H, PEM 15551 (RUSI 42680), 0602H, 15550 (RUSI 42680); Durban fish market. Red Sea, Indian Ocean; Id. TH, BCR, AK. Otolith shape: Ovate becoming fusiform. Thickness: Moder¬ ately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised may be peaked; sculpture, crenate or lobed, becoming digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Tapered, becoming oblique and pointed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed, margins slightly raised, poste¬ rior very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate and narrow, lies mainly along rostrum, V-shaped posteriorly. Cauda: Straight initially, slightly flexed at tip which may be joined by groove. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Col¬ lum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium and after flexion, low ridge from mid-ostium to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval, becoming deep and elongate, margin of otolith may drop away sharply. Ventral depression: Absent, crescentic groove present near margin and groove near caudal tip. Rostrum: Moderately elongate becoming elongate, sharply rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide. Scolopsis vosmeri, SSF No. 186.6 PLATE 93 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo-West Pacific and Persian Gulf, south to Durban. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.38, 6.4mmOD, 193, 207 nunTL), PEM 4357, 6168 (RUSI 17194); Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Very irregular and grooved. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, deep, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, strongly flexed with elongate tip, ends near postero-ventral comer. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1. Collum: Absent, low step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly devel¬ oped after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Narrow and deep, may open onto anterior margin. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin from caudal tip to area beneath neck. Rostrum: Large, becoming elongate, strongly curved laterally, tip sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. 154 SCIAENIDAE Nelson No. 326 Family characteristics: Otoliths are large to massive and extre¬ mely thick, oblong or oval to rounded or rounded triangular in shape, up to at least 23 mm OD. They are heterosulcoid with characteristic tadpole-shaped sulcus, with the exception of the genus Johnius, which has a pit-like caudal tip. Opening either pseudo-ostial, para-ostial or ostial. Heteromorph, colliculi usually very low but margin may be distinctly raised in Johnius. NOTE: The taxonomic status of Argyrosomus hololepidotus in southern Africa is currendy under review by MHG (SFRI). For the purposes of this guide, we append the letters A ad B after the name to designate the two forms. Key la. Otolith approximately triangular; deep, circular pit present in cauda . 2 lb. Otolith oval to circular or triangular; caudal pit absent . 3 2a. Neck triangular, usually flat junction with ostium; ventral groove anterior to pit short; lateral surface with narrow, strong ridge and grooved area . Johnius amblycephalus 199.5 2b. Neck narrower, usually with more rounded junction with ostium; ventral groove anterior to pit longer; lateral surface with raised lump, not grooved . . Johnius dussumieri 196.6 3a. Caudal tip either with narrow dorsal, or narrow dorsal and ventral lobe . 4 3b. Caudal tip narrow, rounded or slightly flared like hockey stick . 5 4a. Otolith rounded triangle; ventral margin keeled to well rounded; cauda straight to slightly flexed; postero-dorsal and ventral lobes at caudal tip . . Otolithes ruber 199.7 4b. Otolith approximately oval; ventral margin of otolith well rounded; cauda gently flexed; caudal tip with distinct postero-dorsal lobe only . Atrobucca nibe 199.4 5a. Otolith oblong-oval; cauda strongly flexed, slightly flared forming a hockey stick shape . Argyrosomus thorpei 199.2 5b. Otolith oblong or rounded oval; caudal tip not distinctly flared in hockey stick shape . 6 6a. Otolith rounded oval . 7 6b. Otolith elongate oblong . 8 7a. Dorsal margin of otolith gently lobed; anterior cauda not bulging at neck; postero-dorsal comer of otolith rounded; dorsal depression not wrinkled; lateral surface of otolith nodular but nodules dispersed on surface; a small species . Umbrina canariensis 199.8 7b. Dorsal margin of otolith more ragged; anterior cauda slightly bulged just posterior to constrictions; postero-dorsal comer of otolith slightly extended; dorsal depression may be wrinkled; lateral surface of otolith with nodules in tight cluster; attains larger size . Umbrina ronchus 199.9 8a. Otolith short, squat and broad posteriorly; ventral lobe of ostium and tip of cauda close to each other . . Argyrosomus hololepidotus A 199. 1 A 8b. Otolith elongate oblong; tip of cauda far from ventral lobe of ostium . 9 9a. Neck narrower than cauda; anterior cauda bulges after constrictions of neck; ventral lobe of ostium broad, not extended; otolith relatively narrow, narrows posteriorly; tip of cauda not flared, may narrow . Atractoscion aequidens 199.3 9b. Neck not narrower than cauda; ventral lobe of ostium narrow, extended posteriorly; otolith broader, bluntly rounded posteriorly; tip of cauda may be slightly flared but rounded . . . Argyrosomus hololepidotus B 199. IB Argyrosomus hololepidotus A, SSF No. 199.1A PLATE 94 DISTRIBUTION: Found in Natal and inshore Cape waters (MHG pers comm). Attains c. 140 cm. MATERIAL: 5/55 (6.0-31.4 mm OD, 141-1348 mm TL), PEM 1706, 5913, 8694, 1700, 5374; southern Cape and Natal; Id. MJS, MHG. Otolith shape: Oval to rectangular or oblong. Thickness: Extre¬ mely thick in centre. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Scattered knobs become fused as postero-central area with growth. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded to slightly rounded or emarginate with growth; sculpture, crenate to slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded becoming blunt and square; sculpture, crenate becoming slightly irregular with growth. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial (c. 8.1 mm OD) becoming pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low and flat anterior, indented posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Mushroom-shaped, broad postero-ven- tral lobe. Cauda: Initially horizontal, strongly flexed along most of length, recurved, narrowing at tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly de¬ veloped over ostium, well developed or low ridge over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, follows sulcus shape. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent or minute. Argyrosomus hololepidotus B, SSF No. 199. IB PLATE 94 DISTRIBUTION: Found offshore in Cape waters and off Namibia (MHG pers comm). Attains at least 72 cm. MATERIAL: 5/55 (2.7-21.0 mm OD, 47-715 mm TL), PEM 3574, 3575, 4190 (RUSI 12765), 1820, 5468 (RUSI 15257); off southern and eastern Cape, western Cape and Namibia; Id. MJS, MHG. Otolith shape: Oval becoming rectangular or oblong. Thickness: Extremely thick in centre. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave with knob in middle. Lateral surface: Small bump in juveniles, postero-central knob becomes larger with growth. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, crenate becoming slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming emarginate with growth and crenate becoming slightly irregular with growth. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, anterior and posterior colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Mushroom-shaped with nar¬ row ventral lobe. Cauda: Strongly flexed at approximately half its length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge¬ like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moderately well devel¬ oped along cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, follows sulcus from ostium to caudal tip, especially in juveniles, dorsal area reduced with growth. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: If present, very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: If present, minute, notch absent 155 Argyrosomus thorpei, SSF No. 199.2 PLATE 94 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Port Elizabeth to the Tugela River; often taken in Natal. Attains 71 cm. MATERIAL: 4/55 (8.4-21.2 mm OD, 165-682 mm TL), PEM 7736 (RUSI 28382), 7739 (RUSI 28382), 7740, 5804; Tugela Bank, Richards Bay and Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oblong with growth. Thickness: Extremely thick in centre. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave with large cluster of nodules. Lateral surface: Nodules near centre. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming flattened and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, oblique and slightly ir¬ regular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu- lum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short mushroom-shaped, broad postero-ventral lobe. Cauda: Straight initially, sharply flexed, flaring at tip like hockey stick. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poor to moderately weh developed along length of sul¬ cus. Dorsal depression: Elongate, follows shape of sulcus. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Atractoscion aequidens, SSF No. 199.3 PLATE 94 DISTRIBUTION: Along the entire coast, common in Angolan waters and reported from northwest Africa and Australia. Attains 130 cm, 25 kg. MATERIAL: 5/55 (3.6-21.7 mm OD, 71-965 mm TL), PEM 4853, 3662, 3703, 9376, 5791; Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Very thick in centre. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave with lump near centre. Lateral surface: Knobs fuse with growth to form lump. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded becoming flattened; sculpture, crenate becoming slightly irregular (>5 mm OD). Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flattened with growth, crenate becom¬ ing almost entire. Posterior margin: Rounded, narrowing poste¬ riorly, crenate becoming approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low an¬ terior, indented posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. "Ostium: Elongate mushroom-shaped. Cauda: Straight initially, strongly flexed, narrows at neck and tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.8, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped above ostium and tip, ridge over anterior cauda to flexion. Crista inferior: Poor to moderately well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate depression from neck to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Atrobucca nibe, SSF No. 199.4 PLATE 94 DISTRIBUTION: Natal, India, Taiwan, China and Japan. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 4/40 (6.94-16.8 mm OD, 130-393 mm TL), PEM 0634, 0635, 0239, 9777; Tugela Bank; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Very thick in centre. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex with knob in centre. Lateral surface: Initially nodular, becoming fused. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate anteriorly and slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and approxi¬ mately entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior, indented posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Mushroom¬ shaped, bulbous ventrally. Cauda: Initially straight with short flexion, distinct dorsal lobe at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium and caudal tip, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate, following sulcus, covers almost entire dor¬ sal area, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove at margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Johnius amblycephalus , SSF No. 199.5 PLATE 95 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific region, from Algoa Bay northwards. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 6/12 (6.52-12.08 mm OD, 103-225 mm TL), PEM 15322 (RUSI 36867), 15274 & 15273 (both RUSI 36868), 15321, 15319 & 15320, (all RUSI 36867), [15489 (RUSI 40549)]; Tugela Bank; Id. STF, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately triangular. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: With pronounced longitudinal ridge along otolith with grooves, bulbous anteriorly. Dorsal margin: Sinuous; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Sinuous and bulbous and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Narrow, point flexed ventrally, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, very low anterior colliculum, posterior pit¬ like and circular with anterior ridge-like margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad short and oval, poorly defined. Cauda: Neck triangular, strongly flexed with deep and large circular pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:2.3, 1:1.9, 1:1.7, 1:1.7, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well devel¬ oped around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like under neck, moderately well developed around pit. Dorsal depression: Elongate and narrow, may be small circular pit in antero-dorsal comer. Ventral depression: Short groove or depression opens into anterior caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch ab¬ sent. Johnius dussumieri, SSF No. 199.6 PLATE 95 DISTRIBUTION: From East London, South Africa to Singapore. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 5/10 (5.72-10.42 mm OD, 123-185 mm TL), PEM 15278 & 15277 (both RUSI 36869), 15325, 15324 & 15323 (all RUSI 36866); Tugela Bank; Id. STF, MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Rounded-triangular. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Thick ridge along otolith, not grooved, slightly bulbous anteriorly. Dorsal margin: Sinuate; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Sinuous, bulbous and irregular. Posterior margin: Narrow, blunt point, flexed ventrally and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior colliculum, posterior pit- like and circular with anterior raised margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Broad, short and oval, poorly defined. Cauda: Neck narrow and triangular, strongly flexed with deep large pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.1, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed above ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed around posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along ostium, moderately well developed around cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, small very shallow pit at antero-dorsal comer. Ventral depression: Absent, moderately long groove opens into anterior caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad 156 and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Wide, notch ab¬ sent. Otolithes ruber, SSF No. 199.7 PLATE 95 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, extending south to at least Durban. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 7/65 (5.3-15.2 mm OD, 106^105 mm TL), PEM 1722, 1721, 8737, 7737, 7738 & 7749 (both RUSI 28383), 6068, [15271 (RUSI 36878)]; TugelaBank and Durban; Id. MJS, RvdE, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-triangular. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral surface: Small nodules in juveniles, become fused with growth. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate becoming irregular with growth (>6 mm OD). Ventral margin: Keeled to well rounded and crenate becoming irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate becoming entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial may be pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Mushroom-shaped, lobed ventrally. Cauda: Straight, gently flexed posteriorly with dorsal and ventral lobes at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Col- lum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly devel¬ oped over ostium and at tip, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate along length of dorsal area to flexion or tip. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: If pre¬ sent, very narrow, notch very shallow. Umbrina canariensis, SSF No. 199.8 PLATE 95 DISTRIBUTION: West African coast from Morocco to the Cape, and in the western Indian Ocean from False Bay to Pakistan. Attains 55 cm. MATERIAL: 7/260 (3.75-13.7 mm OD, 76-368 mm TL), PEM 4122, 4292 & 4203 (both RUSI 12785), 12498 (RUSI 28384), 1 1594, 14878 (RUSI 35587), 14875 (RUSI 35544), [14876 (RUSI 35546), 14877 (RUSI 35545), 14879, 14880 (all RUSI 35587)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval or rounded. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral sur¬ face: Dispersed nodules fuse with growth. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly rounded; sculpture, crenate (<7 mm OD) becoming irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded, crenate becoming irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded becoming blunt, crenate becoming irregular with growth. Postero-dorsal comer square or gently rounded. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial or para-ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Mush¬ room-shaped, with dorsal and ventral lobes. Cauda: Neck straight, strongly flexed, narrows at tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium and flexion, ridge-like over posterior ostium and anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moderately well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and elongate along sulcus. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: If present, very narrow, notch very shallow. Umbrina ronchus, SSF No. 199.9 PLATE 95 DISTRIBUTION: Known from the Canary Ids and northwest coast of Africa to the Persian Gulf. Attains 70 cm. MATERIAL: 7/10 (9.2-22.5 mm OD, 270-813 mm TL), PEM 6768, 7715 (RUSI 20114), 2688, 14863 (RUSI 35540), 14865 (RUSI 35536), 5957, 14217, [14864 (RUSI 35534), 14866 (RUSI 35538), 14867 (RUSI 35539)]; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. RvdE, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave with small cluster of knobs in centre. Lateral surface: Tightly clustered nodules, be¬ come fused ridge (c. 22 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Well rounded and irregular. Postero-dorsal comer becomes extended with growth. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial or pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior collicu¬ lum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Mushroom-shaped, rounded ventral bulge. Cauda: Bulges slightly at neck, strongly flexed, narrows at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step down to cauda. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed over ostium and caudal tip, low ridge over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow, elongate from ostium to caudal tip, becoming wrinkled in posterior in large otoliths. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch very shallow. MULLIDAE Nelson No. 327 Family characteristics: Otoliths are oval-ovate to slightly trian¬ gular and small, up to c. 5.2 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with small ostium which may have an excisural pit. Straight or slightly flexed anterior cauda, with ventrally flexed posterior pit close to posterior margin. May be a ventral groove from margin to pit. Openings ostial, or ostio-caudal with growth. Heteromorph with very indis¬ tinct colliculi. Crista superior ridge-like at least along anterior cauda. Generally very similar otoliths within this family and extremely large ontogenetic variation with growth. Key 1 a. Crista inferior not constricted in neck; no step up to cauda from ostium . 2 lb. Crista inferior constricted in neck; step up to cauda from ostium . 3 2a. Rostrum pointed; cauda gently flexed along its length; ventral margin of otolith may be depressed and indented below ostium; crista superior an elongate ridge, reaches midpoint of pit . Upeneus vittatus 196.13 2b. Rostrum large, sharply rounded; cauda almost straight but pit sharply flexed; ventral margin under ostium not indented or depressed; crista superior ridge-like, short, just reaching pit . Upeneus tragula 196.12 3a. Cauda slightly flexed along its length; ventral margin of pit slightly flexed; ventral margin of otolith approximately flat (>2.7mm OD); dorsal area moderately reduced . Mulloides flavolineatus 196.1 3b. Cauda with slightly sinuous dorsal margin; ventral margin of cauda sharply flexed under pit; excisural pit in ostium often present; margins of otolith often become digitate . Parupeneus spp. Species in this genus have very similar otoliths with large ontogenetic variation. Specific identifications may be possible when material is compared directly with reference otoliths. Mulloides flavolineatus, SSF No. 196.1 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea; extending to Knysna. Attains 30 cm. 157 MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.6-3.6 mm OD, 96-200 mm TL), PEM 15653, 15643, 14555 (RUSI 31422); Comoro Ids, Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Approximately flat to slightly rounded and crenate to serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indis¬ tinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally and ventrally, ventral wall poorly defined, anterior ostium floor with upward retroflexion may close part of excisura and leave a hole in ostium. Cauda: Straight and raised in the anterior horizontal section, ventrally flexed with deep caudal pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda and down to pit. Crista superior: Well developed above anterior ostium, ridge-like to mid-caudal pit, well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, low ridge from neck to pit, poorly developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate above horizontal cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate or short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Small, notch moderate, may be closed, angle varies. Parupeneus barberinus, SSF No. 196.3 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Mossel Bay. At¬ tains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (1.45-3.75 mm OD, 66-255 mm TL), PEM 15448 (RUSI 40566), 15642, 1255H, 1254H; either Madagascar or Bazaruto, Comoro Ids, Eilat; Id. MJS, PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded or flattened becoming raised posteriorly (c. 2.6 mm OD); sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate becoming deeply incised and irregu¬ lar (c. 2.6 mm OD). Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded becoming notched and irregular (c. 3.7 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (<2.5mm OD), becoming ostio-caudal (>c. 3.6 mm OD), hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, notched and approxi¬ mately oval, narrowing anteriorly. Cauda: Staight becoming sinu¬ ous and raised anteriorly, pit deep, posterior margin of larger otoliths eroded. Shallow notch or groove passes through ventral crista of pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted principally. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 1:1.9, 1:1.5, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, distinct step up to cauda and down to pit. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to caudal pit, poorly, becoming moderately well developed around pit (c. 2.6 mm OD). Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate from ostium to pit. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed, groove from margin to caudal pit. Rostrum: Short, broad and bluntly rounded, may be notched. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. Parupeneus bifasciatus, SSF No. 196.4 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Sodwana Bay. At¬ tains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.2-4.5 mm OD, 105-286 mm TL), PEM 15644, 14534 & 14530 (both RUSI 31435); Comoro Ids, Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Irregularly oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, digitate, notched and irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indis¬ tinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, slightly flared dorsally, develops excisural pit. Cauda: Deep, slightly raised in anterior section, sharply flexed ventrally with deep pit undercutting ventral area. Ventral groove meets ventral crista of pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted, dorsally principally. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda and down to pit. Crista supe¬ rior: Moderately well developed over anterior ostium and around pit, ridge-like along horizontal cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, margin be¬ comes depressed, ventral groove to caudal pit. Rostrum: Moder¬ ate, broad and sharply rounded or lobed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent. Parupeneus cinnabarinus, SSF No. 196.5 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea south to Transkei. Attains 28 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.0 mm OD, 227 mm TL), PEM 14528 (RUSI 31468); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong and irregular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Lobed and notched; sculpture, very irregular or digitate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, lobed, notched and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, oblique and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Deep with excisural pit. Cauda: Anteri¬ or, horizontal part slopes down to pit. Pit ventrally flexed and undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Poorly con¬ stricted dorsally and ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda, slope down to pit. Crista superior: Ridge-like and sinuous from ostium to caudal pit, moderately well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate along most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed as broad, shallow groove from ostium to pit. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch absent. Parupeneus cyclostomus, SSF No. 196.6 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea, southwards to Durban. Attains 48 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (3.7-5.1 mm OD, 214-363 mm FL), PEM 14526 (RUSI 31431), 5688, 5687; Sodwana and Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rattened, posterior raised and slightly rounded; sculp¬ ture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, digitate, dentate and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, oblique and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small and narrow with ex¬ cisural pit. Cauda: Anterior section slightly raised, pit moderately deep and ventrally flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight narrowing dorsally and ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.7, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda and slope to pit. Crista superior: Moderately well developed at extremes, ridge¬ like above cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate along most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, margin de¬ pressed. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Anti- rostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. 158 Parupeneus indie us, SSF No. 196.7 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific to Port Alfred. Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.55 mm OD, 69 mm TL), PEM 15444 (RUSI 50462); Madagascar or Bazaruto; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Flat, oblique, sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indis¬ tinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, narrow anteriorly and moderately deep. Cauda: Straight initially, with ventral lobe and pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally slightly constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda and down to pit. Crista superior: Moderately well developed above anterior ostium and pit, ridge- like elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, lying above anterior cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow, angle acute. Parupeneus macronema, SSF No. 196.8 PLATE 96 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean and Red Sea; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 5/15 (3.0-3.7 mm OD, 156-243 mm TL), PEM 6487, 15626, 6727, 8247 (RUSI 34150), 6726 (RUSI 28389), [8825 (RUSI 37466)]; Natal, Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flattened, posterior slightly raised and slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, lobed and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and deep. Cauda: Deep, anterior straight, only slightly raised, caudal pit moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:2.1, 1:1.9, 1:1.7, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to pit, moderately well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: If present, very small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow if present, angle acute. Parupeneus pleurostigma, SSF No. 196.9 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Delagoa Bay. At¬ tains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.6 mm OD, 224 mm TL), PEM 9607; ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique and bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent Ostium: Deep with excisural pit. Cauda: Deep, anterior cauda only slightly raised, pit moder¬ ately shallow, with steep ventral wall and low-angled dorsal wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7. Collum: Absent slight step up to cauda. slope down to caudal pit. Crista superior: Sinuous and ridge-like from ostium to pit moderately well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Well developed along length. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. Parupeneus rubescens, SSF No. 196.10 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea, south to Mossel Bay. Attains 42 cm. MATERIAL: 5/1 6 ( 1 .8-5 .2 mm OD, 79-400 mm TL), PEM 1 0334, 6728 (RUSI 28390), 14853, 14851, 6038 (RUSI 17474); Algoa Bay and vicinity and off Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave, depressed in centre. Lateral surface: Indentation in nucleus in large otoliths. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate, lobed and irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, bluntly rounded and crenate or irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, with low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and flared, may have excisural pit. Cauda: Anterior cauda raised, pit deep and sharply flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda, slope to pit. Crista superior: Sinuous and ridge-like from ostium to caudal pit, mod¬ erately well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate and approximately oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Large and broadly rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate to small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varied. Upeneus tragula , SSF No. 196.12 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Durban. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.0 mm OD, 176 mm IL), PEM 5068 (RUSI 13763); Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flattened and raised posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and moderately shallow. Cauda: Anterior cauda slightly raised, pit moderately shallow, posterior wall poorly defined, ventral wall sinuous, and may have groove to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda and slight step down to pit. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium along anterior cauda, moderately well developed around pit. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed below cauda but absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Anti- rostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shal¬ low, angle wide. Upeneus vittatus, SSF No. 196.13 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea and southward to East London. Attains 28 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (3.65-4.4 mm OD, 127-185 mm TL), PEM 15453 (RUSI 40570), 14557 (RUSI 31413), 0231, 14556 (RUSI 31398), [15478 (RUSI 40593)]; Mauritius, Tugela mouth and Madagascar or Bazaruto; Id. MJS, PCH, GJBR. 159 Otolith shape: Approximately triangular-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Crested posteriorly, may be slightly notched in centre; sculpture, serrate and irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, straight ventrally, flared dorsally. Cauda: Only slightly raised anteriorly, gently flexed along its length, pit shallow and close to postero-ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 1:1.8, 1:1.4, 1:1.9. Collum: Absent, no step. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-caudal pit, poorly developed around pit. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral margin may be depressed, particularly under ostium. Rostrum: Large and pointed, may have ventral notch under tip. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. MO NODACTYL I DAE Nelson No. 328 Family characteristics: Otoliths rounded-ovate, up to c.7.5 mm OD, margins crenate. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Cauda angled slightly ventrally, slightly flexed near tip, ends near margin. Heteromorph, low and indistinct colliculi. Key la. Otolith broad and rounded; ostium short and flared; cauda slightly flexed, tip moderately long . Monodactylus argenteus 193.1 lb. Otolith relatively narrow and elongate; ostium elongate and relatively narrow, lies mainly along rostrum; cauda slightly flexed, tip short . . Monodactylus falciformis 193.2 Monodactylus argenteus , SSF No. 193.1 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Red sea and Indo-West Pacific including Japan and Australia; extends south to the Breede River (Cape Infante). Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (2.8-4.5 mm OD, 78-125 mm TL), 1196H, 1 158H, 1 157H; Red Sea; Id. AD, TH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, het¬ erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indis¬ tinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, steep, sharply flared dorsal wall. Cauda: Angled slightly ventrally, flexed in posterior third. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from neck to flexion, well developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval from neck to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Monodactylus falciformis, SSF No. 193.2 PLATE 97 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indian Ocean south to False Bay. Attains 31 cm. MATERIAL: 4/24 (2.45-7.42 mm OD, 52-207 mm TL), PEM 1243, 1233, 1229, 1381; Knysna and Swartvlei, Cape south coast; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Roundly ovate becoming more elongate with growth (c. 6.22 mm OD). Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate, dentate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded (c. 2.6 mm OD), becoming more bluntly rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep, lies on the rostrum, rostral margin may be raised and uneven. Cauda: Slightly angled ven¬ trally, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:2, 1:1.2, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in large otoliths. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed over ostium and caudal flexion, ridge-like along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Broad, becoming more elongate with growth. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Mod¬ erate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle varied. PEMPHERIDIDAE Nelson No. 329 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths roundly rhomboidal, up to c. 7.2 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium wide with bulbous ventral margin, cauda straight initially, flexed near tip. Ventral area very broad, sulcus in upper third of otolith. Ventral groove becomes distinct in large otoliths. Crista superior ridge-like along most of sulcus, crista inferior is well developed. Heteromorph with low anterior, indis¬ tinct posterior colliculum. Lateral surface has vertical depression in nucleus area. Key la. Ventral margin of otolith keeled; ostium width moderate, slightly bulbous ventrally; crista superior is narrow ridge; dorsal area approximately smooth . Pempheris adusta 216.2 lb. Ventral margin of otolith well rounded; ostium very wide and short, very bulbous ventrally; crista superior is a broad ridge; dorsal area irregular . Pempheris mangula 216.3 Pempheris adusta, SSF No. 216.2 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to the Transkei. At¬ tains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 5/1 8 (3.5-7. 1 8 mm OD, 88- 1 84 mm TL), PEM 2676, 2686, 2674, 2685, 2672; Botla Point; Id. MMS. Otolith shape; Deeply rounded rhomboidal. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: May be a vertical depression in nucleus region in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded or keeled, crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, wide and flattened, slightly bulbous ventrally. Anterior colliculum penetrates ex¬ cisura. Cauda: Slightly sinuous and flexed at tip which is pointed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted, narrows slightly dorsally, more distinct in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed at extremes, low ridge from ostium to flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Approximately oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove along mar¬ gin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. 160 Pempheris mangula , SSF No. 216.3 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to at least Porto Amelia; probably occurs in this area. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.2mmOD, 170mmTL), PEM 14265; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Shallow vertical depression in nucleus region. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum slightly raised, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, wide and bulbous ventrally. Cauda: Straight, sharply flexed and deep at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, broad ridge from ostium to flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, distinct marginal groove. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. CORACINIDAE Nelson No. 333 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths fusi¬ form, up to at least 8.7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Rostrum elongate and flexed laterally, otolith twisted along its length. Ostium narrow but flared, lies on rostrum. Cauda deep, flexed at tip. Heteromorph, colliculi reduced and indistinct. Crista superior ridge-like to flexion, crista inferior is ridge-like below cauda. Key la. Cauda gently flexed, not flared at tip; rostrum down-flexed; dorsal depression deep; posterior margin of otolith oblique or pointed, may be emarginate . Coracinus capensis 187.1 lb. Cauda flexed and flared at tip; rostrum straight; dorsal depression shallow; posterior margin of otolith rounded . Coracinus multifasciatus 187.2 Coracinus capensis, SSF No. 187.1 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs from southern Angola to Sodwana Bay. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (8.0-8.78 mm OD, 413480 mm TL), PEM 9320, 10328, 1118; Cape south coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave and slightly twisted along its length. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat, raised posteriorly; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded to sinuous and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, oblique or pointed and may be notched, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, small and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and flared but narrow, lies mainly on rostrum, rostral dorsal edge raised. Cauda: Very gently flexed and very deep. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge along entire sulcus except at tip, well developed. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, ridge-like un¬ der cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep, elongate to flexion in cauda. Ventral depression: Deep, from tip of cauda to neck, narrowing anteriorly. Rostrum: Elongate, ventrally flexed and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Narrow, pointed and may be flexed dorsally. Excisu¬ ra: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Coracinus multifasciatus, SSF No. 187.2 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs mainly from Transkei coast to Mada¬ gascar, to Still Bay (west of Mossel Bay). Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 4/7 (5.0-6.8 mm OD, 198-289 mm TL), PEM 6736 (RUSI 28391), 0604, 6769, 8804; Natal and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, RvdE, GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex - Lateral concave and slightly twisted along its length. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, flared ventrally, dorsal margin of ros¬ trum may be raised. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed and flared at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constric¬ tions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium, ridge-like below cauda. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate. Ventral depression: Elongate and wide under cauda, widens posteriorly. Rostrum: Elongate and pointed or broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Large and pointed, may be dorsally flexed. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. KYPHOSIDAE Nelson No. 334 (PARASCORPIDIDAE in SSF) NOTE: The families Parascorpididae, Scorpididae and Kyphosi- dae are treated as three families in SSF. In Nelson (1984) they are grouped in the family Kyphosidae. The otoliths of the three families are fairly similar in form. Family characteristics: Only one species. Otoliths fusiform up to c. 14 mm OD, rostrum elongate. Heterosulcoid, ostial opening. Ostium elongate and narrow, cauda straight with slight flexion at tip. Heteromorph with very low and indistinct colliculi. Crista superior ridge-like from ostium to flexion, crista inferior poor or well developed. Parascorpis typus, SSF No. 188.1 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from False Bay to Maputo. At¬ tains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 4/12 (9.4-14.24 mm OD, 306450 mm IL), PEM 5334, 1653, 11324, 0275; Cape south coast; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed and lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low and very indistinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and narrow lying mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Long and straight, flexed and deepening at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed becoming well developed (c. 14 mm OD) after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and tip, well developed under anterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, groove under ostium on rostrum and shallow groove under crista inferior of cauda. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. KYPHOSIDAE Nelson No. 334 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths oblong to fusiform, up to at least 10 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial 161 opening, ostium slightly flared, not confined to rostrum. Cauda straight with flexed tip, may close near to ventral margin. Crista superior ridge-like from mid-ostium to flexion, crista inferior well developed. Heteromorph with indistinct or low colliculi. Key la. Otolith oval; ostium filled with rugose colliculum; ridge above dorsal depression . . Kyphosus vaigiensis 189.3 lb. Otolith oblong to fusiform; ostium with low and indistinct colliculum; no ridge above dorsal depression . 2 2a. Ostium slightly flared ventrally; ventral groove anterior to caudal tip in large otoliths; dorsal margin of otolith flat . Kyphosus bigibbus 189.1 2b. Ostium flared dorsally and ventrally; no ventral groove anterior to caudal tip; dorsal margin slightly rounded to flattened . Kyphosus cinerascens 189.2 Kyphosus bigibbus, SSF No. 189.1 PLATE 98 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea to Japan and Hawaii, south to Cape of Good Hope. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (2.5-9.94 mm OD, 87-521 mm TL), PEM 0809 2729, 2728; Sodwana Bay and Cape Recife; Id. MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Medial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flattened, crenate or slightly irregular with notch under caudal tip in large (>9 mm) otoliths. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, tip of cauda closes very close to ventral margin, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low and indistinct colliculi. PseudocoUiculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared ventrally, lies mainly on rostrum, deeper than cauda and may have a hole at neck. Cauda: Straight anteri¬ orly, sharply flexed and deeper at tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Ventrally constricted, gently curved dorsally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poor to moderately well developed over ostium and after flexion, low ridge over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow above anterior cauda anterior to caudal tip. Ventral depression: Absent, short shallow groove may run anterior to caudal tip. Rostrum: Moderately long, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate to wide, notch depth and angle varies. Kyphosus cinerascens, SSF No. 189.2 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea, Indo-West Pacific, south to East Lon¬ don. Attains >50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/4 (4.5, 6.98 mm OD, 210, 380 mm TL), PEM 9280 (RUSI 37507), 0421, [5390 (RUSI 15206)]; Durban Market and Cape Recife; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very convex, -.Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudo¬ coUiculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally and ventrally, short and deep. Rostral edge may be raised. Cauda: Straight anteriorly, strongly curved, flared and deep at tip, ending close to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.4. CoUum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep above anterior cauda. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. Kyphosus vaigiensis, SSF No, 189.3 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Indo -Pacific south to Algoa Bay. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.96 mm OD, 240 mm 1L), 0203H; Seal Point; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or blunt, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. PseudocoUiculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, dorsal margin sinuous and flared, filled with colli¬ culum. Cauda: Straight anteriorly, sharply flexed, slightly flared and deeper at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and flexion, ridge-like along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval, ridge in mid-dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove from tip to mid-ostium. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ate, notch extremely shallow, angle wide. KYPHOSIDAE Nelson No. 334 (SCORPIDIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: A single species described. Otoliths ovate to oblong/fusiform, to 8.3 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium elongate. Cauda becomes straighter anteriorly with growth but flexed at tip, cauda shallow compared to previous two families. Heteromorph, colliculi low and indistinct. Crista superior ridge-like over anterior cauda, crista inferior is poor to well developed. Neoscorpis lithophilus, SSF No. 190.1 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to southern Mozambique in shallow rocky areas. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 4/15 ( 1. 5-8.3 mm OD, 45-408 mm TL), PEM 11992, (RUSI 34122), 5920, 6649,4936, [8721 (RUSI 37424)] ; Natal and southern Cape coast; Id. RvdE, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate becoming approximately oblong/fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming flattened; sculpture, irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Sharply rounded or flattened and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, col¬ liculi low and indistinct. PseudocoUiculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, becoming elongate lying mainly on rostrum, may have hole in ostium. Cauda: Gently flexed (<2 mm OD), becoming straight and flexed at poorly defined tip (c. 5 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed above ostium, ridge¬ like above anterior cauda, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed, may be well developed under flexion in large otoliths (>7 mm). Dorsal depression: Shallow, elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove parallel with flexed tip. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate to wide, notch shaUow, angle acute. 162 EPHIPPIDIDAE Nelson No. 335 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths ovate or oblong/fusiform, up to at least 7.8 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, with ostial opening, lying mainly along rostrum with raised dorsal edge. Cauda straight, flexed near tip. Heteromorph with low, or indis¬ tinct colliculi. NOTE: Because of previous confusion in the taxonomy of this family in this region, the specific identification of some otoliths in the collections is uncertain. A comparison of a recently acquired Platax pinnatus (PEM 15402) with material previously in the collection suggests that three pairs of otoliths belong to this species whilst the rest are tentatively placed in Platax orbicularis at present. This needs confirmation, as there are three species in the genus Platax in this region. Key la. Dorsal margin of otolith flat; otolith narrow; > ventral margin qf ostium sinuous . . ‘ . Platax orbicularis 192. 1 lb. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or raised; ventral margin of ostium straight or slightly bulged ... 2 2a. Cauda flexed; ostium with straight ventral margin; dorsal depression shallow .... Platax pinnatus 192.2 2b. Cauda shaiply flexed; ventral margin of ostium bulbous anterior to neck; dorsal depression deep . . . Tripterodon orbis 192.4 Platax orbicularis, SSF No. 192.1 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Knysna. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.9, 6.2 mm OD, 155, 227 mm TL), PEM 6600, 6459; ORI. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, crenate to irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low posterior, indistinct anterior colli- culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on ros¬ trum, sinuous ventral margin, dorsal margin of rostrum uneven and rased. Cauda: Straight, flexed and flared at tip with deep ventral edge. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like to flexion, poorly developed posteriorly. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate and rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Mod¬ erate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Platax pinnatus, SSF No. 192.2 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to at least to Natal and Durban, juveniles to the eastern Cape. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (3.28-7.8 mm OD, 103-315 mm TL), PEM 0821, 15402 (RUSI 40601), 9633; ORI, Swartkops and Madagascar; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened or slightly raised posterior comer; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slighdy rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt or oblique, may be notched, lobed to irregular or crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low, reduced colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum with straight ventral margin, dorsal margin of rostrum raised and uneven. Cauda: Straight initially, flexed near tip and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be a shallow groove under neck of sulcus. Rostrum: Large and bluntly angled or sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded or squared. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle acute or wide Tripterodon orbis, SSF No. 192.4 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Kenya south to Algoa Bay. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.82 mm OD, 220 mm TL), PEM 0637; ORI; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened or slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate to lobed. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly along rostrum, ventral edge of ostium irregular, bulges anterior to neck and dorsal rostral edge raised and irregular. Cauda: Moderately deep, sharply flexed, flared at flexion, tip pointed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven¬ trally constricted, curved dorsally. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Narrow ridge from ostium to flexion, moderately well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Long, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. EPHIPPIDIDAE Nelson No. 335 (DREPANIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Single species described. Otoliths simi¬ lar to Ephippididae of SSF, although rostrum shorter and otoliths broader in Drepanidae. Otoliths oval to ovate, up to at least 9.7 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening, ostium relatively short and broad, rostrum blunt and rounded. Cauda straight, flexed and flared near tip. Heteromorph, colliculi low. Drepane longimanus, SSF No. 195.1 PLATE 99 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific south to East Lon¬ don. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 7/14 (3.45-9.7 mm OD, 83-320 mm TL), PEM 15288 & 15287 (both RUSI 36874), 0598, 15286 (RUSI 36874), 1688, 1687, 5469 (RUSI 15262); Swartkops estuary and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA, RvdE. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming notched under caudal tip (c. 7.6 mm OD), crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Broad, dorsal rostral edge very uneven. Cauda: Approximately straight, narrows at mid-point, flaring towards flexed tip, ending close to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Ventrally constricted, curved dorsally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1, 15287 damaged. CoUum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a shallow, wide groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and 163 rounded. An tirostrum: Small and pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. CHAETODONTIDAE Nelson No. 338 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval-ovate and small, to c. 5.4 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening, cauda angled and usually sinuous, tip often ends near margin. Ostium often reduced and narrow, mainly on the margin of the rostrum. Heteromorph, colliculi very low to extremely indistinct, may be crystalline. The otoliths of these species are very similar. Key la. Rostrum pointed; cauda horizontal or sinuous, flexed and deep at tip; ventral margin of ostium poorly defined . Heniochus spp. 205.22, 205.24 lb. Rostrum rounded or sharply rounded; cauda angled and sinuous; ostium often reduced, lies mainly on rostrum . 2 2a. Sulcus sinuous and angled at 45°; posterior margin of otolith blunt, oblique and crenate; ostium broad and short with its ventral margin very poorly defined . Hemitaurichthys zoster 205.21 2b. Sulcus sinuous and slightly angled; posterior margin of otolith rounded, may be notched; ostium narrow: Chaetodon spp. 205.1 - 205.19 and Forcipiger flavissimus 205.20 Chaetodon auriga, SSF No. 205.1 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific from South Africa and Red Sea to Hawaiian Ids and Australia; extends south on this coast to Mossel Bay. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/17 (2.5-4.5 mm OD, 62-165 mm TL), PEM 7699, 6619 (RUSI 28392), 6428, 8658 (RUSI 37499), [6613 & 6614 (RUSI 28392)]; Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very reduced and indistinct. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Very reduced, narrow and deep, fringing rostrum. Cauda: Angled ventrally, slightly sinuous, dorsal wall steep, sharply flexed posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.6, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short and broad or taper¬ ing and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum: Small, pointed with slight dorsal curve. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon blackburnii, SSF No. 2053 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Mauritius, Mozambique, south to Bashee River. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 4/17 (1.6-4.0 mm OD, 45-1 15 mm TL), PEM 9282, 6003, 6125 (RUSI 17188), 7700 (RUSI 28393), [8661-8663 (RUSI 37454), 6759 (RUSI 28393)]; Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper than cauda, small, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Angled ventrally, slightly sinuous. sharply flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above anterior ostium and after flexion, becoming ridge-like along cauda to flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon dolosus , SSF No. 205.4 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from east African coast and Mau¬ ritius, south to Xora River. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (3.45-4.2 mm OD, 1 1 1-133 mm TL), PEM 46 14, 2870, 4370; Ledsman Shoal and Sodwana Bay; Id. PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low, may be crystalline. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small and deep, dorsal edge of rostrum may be raised. Cauda: Angled ventrally, slightly sinuous, sharply flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally or dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.8, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, may be step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium and after flexion, broad ridge over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, margin under caudal tip may be depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon falcula, SSF No. 205.5 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from Africa to Indonesia south to Delagoa Bay. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.1 mm OD, 44 mm TL), PEM 7697 (RUSI 28394); ORI; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally and ventrally, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Short, sharply flexed, ventral walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally slightly curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like along anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Chaetodon guttatissimus, SSF No. 205.6 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean and Red Sea; south to Durban. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 4/10 (3.2-3.7 mm OD, 88-1 12 mm TL), PEM 6621 & 6602 (both RUSI 28395), 6126 (RUSI 17189), 6601; ORI, Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised, peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Small may be very reduced and deep. 164 Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous and sharply flexed at tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally or ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.6, 1:1.6, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or rounded in smaller otoliths. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Chaetodon kleinii, SSF No. 205.7 PLATE 100 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indian Ocean to central Pacific; south to Coffee Bay. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/12 (1 .9-3.75 mm OD, 60-1 13 mm TL), PEM4618, 4371, 6620 (RUSI 28396), 2810, [8214 (RUSI 37442)]; Sodwana Bay and Natal; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded to slightly raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow along rostrum, rostrum dorsal margin may be raised. Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous, flexed near tip and ends near ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Broad ridge from ostium to flexion, thereafter well developed. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Narrow and deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Elon¬ gate, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Chaetodon lunula, SSF No. 205.9 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: South Africa to the Hawaii, Japan and Australia, south to East London. Attains 19 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (3.4-5 ,4mm OD, 122-200 mm TL),PEM9327, 6616, 6597; ORI and PEO; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded, notched near postero- ventral comer, slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep, reduced and narrow, lies along rostrum. Cauda: Ventrally angled, sinuous and flexed near tip, ends near margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.5, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge-like over anterior ostium, ridge-like to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moderately well devel¬ oped under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Broad, tapers anteriorly and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed, may have dorsal retroflexion. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon madagaskariensis, SSF No. 205.10 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from east coast of Africa to Christmas Is., also Madagascar, Mauritius, south to Port Elizabeth. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 3/21 (3.2-4.0 mm OD, 96-109 mm TL), PEM 6124 (RUSI 17192), 6752 (RUSI 28397), 6751, [8636-8639 and 8794 (RUSI 37486)]; Natal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Reduced, lies along rostrum, rostral dorsal margin may be raised and irregular. Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous, flexed near tip, ending near margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.1, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, moderately well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, margin may depressed below cauda. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon marleyi, SSF No. 205.11 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Endemic to southern Africa from Lamberts Bay (western Cape) to Delagoa Bay. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/13 (2.4^.6 mm OD, 49-112 mm TL), PEM 5319, 4058, 10331, 15204; between Cape Recife and Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, rostral edge slightly raised and irregular. Cauda: Narrow, long and sinuous, slightly angled ventrally and slightly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow, oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon melannotus, SSF No. 205.12 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific and Red Sea, south to Durban. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.0, 2.75 mm OD, 45, 78 mm IL), PEM 7695 (RUSI 28398), 0444H; ORI and Red Sea; Id. IH, ABT, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: May have a pit in nucleus region. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very reduced and narrow, slightly deeper than cauda. Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous and flexed, hooked at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal and ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded 165 or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Chaetodon meyeri, SSF No. 205.13 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; south to Durban. Attains 17 mm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.8, 4.6 mm OD, 62, 159 mm TL), PEM 11315, 6655 (RUSI 28399); ORI; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Peaked and emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt or sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep, lying along rostrum, dorsal rostral edge raised. Cauda: Ventrally angled, sinuous, flexed at tip and ends close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Distinct ridge from ostium to flexion, well devel¬ oped thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, margin may be depressed under caudal tip. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small or moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately shallow, angle varied. Chaetodon mitratus, Gunther, 1860 SSF No. 205. — PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION : Collected from Mauritius, unknown from South Africa. Attains at least 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.2 mm OD, 100 mm TL), PEM 14565 (RUSI 31443); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, narrow, lies mainly along rostrum. Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate from anti¬ rostrum to flexion. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Very short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Chaetodon trifascialis, SSF No. 205.14 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-Pacific from Africa to Ha¬ waii; south to the Tugela River. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.65-3.8 mm OD, 123-140 cm TL), 0987H, 0984H, PEM 8591 (RUSI 37447); Durban, Gulf of Aqaba; Id. PCH, AB, TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular, notch close to ventral margin. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with low colliculi. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Very reduced and deep, moderately narrow, dorsal margin of rostrum very irregular. Cauda: Slightly angled ventrally, flexion either moderate or right-angled, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed at extremes, well developed under cauda. Dor¬ sal depression: Elongate and narrow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Elongate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow or moderate, angle wide. Chaetodon trifasciatus, SSF No. 205.15 PLATE 101 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific to South Africa (Kosi Bay) to Hawaii. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 1/3 (2.7 mm OD, 60 mm TL), PEM 0091; PEO; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and reduced. Cauda: Angled ventrally, slightly sinuous and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deeper anteri¬ orly. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Small, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon unimaculatus, SSF No. 205.16 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean from Africa to Indonesia; south to Port Alfred. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 3/13 (3.6-5. 6 mm OD, 114-1 66 mm TL), PEM 8635 (RUSI 37488), 6744 (RUSI 28450), 9601 (RUSI 37501), [9634 & 9635 (both RUSI 37501), 8633, 8634 & 8266 (all 3 RUSI 37488)]; ORI and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised and peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Reduced, narrow and deep, lies along rostrum, dorsal rostral margin irregular. Ventral margin becomes more sinuous (>5 mm OD). Cauda: Angled ventrally, slightly sinuous and flexed near tip, ending moderately far from margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.7, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, reduced and anteriorly located in large otoliths (>5 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon vagabundus, SSF No. 205.17 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific and Red Sea; south to Durban. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (3.0-4.7 mm OD, 100-171 mm TL), 0314H, PEM 15410 (RUSI 40614), 6656; ORI, Madagascar and Philip¬ pines; Id. MJS, PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or 166 irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Very reduced and narrow, lies along margin of rostrum. Cauda: Angled, deep becoming very deep, slightly sinuous, ending close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.6, 1:1.6. Col- lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Broad ridge from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed, may be a low ridge under cauda in large otoliths (c. 4.7 mm OD). Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval from antirostrum to flexion. Ventral depression: May have shallow depression under ventral crista and may have depression posterior to cauda (c. 4.7 mm OD). Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and blunt. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chaetodon xanthocephalus, SSF No. 205.18 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean, south to Durban. At¬ tains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.1 mm OD, 63.5 mm TL), PEM 0018; PEO; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very re¬ duced and narrow on rostrum, dorsal rostral margin irregular. Cauda: Angled, sinuous and flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Forcipiger flavissimus, SSF No. 205.20 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: From Durban to the Red Sea, across Indian and tropical Pacific Oceans to Easter Island and Baja California. At¬ tains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 3/11 (2.5-4.6 mm OD, 90-155 mm TL), PEM 8870 (RUSI 37448), 6001, 6707 (RUSI 28451), [6131 (RUSI 17190), 8659 (RUSI 37453)]; ORI, Durban; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate, but thickening (c. 4.6 mm OD). Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and shallow. Cauda: Angled ventrally, sinuous, gently flexed and deeper posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.5, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, broadening with growth, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Hemitaurichthys zoster , SSF No. 205.21 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean; south to SodwanaBay. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.7 mm OD, 3927 broken; 168, 178mm TL), PEM 8644, 3927 (RUSI 12034); Ledsman Shoal and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to slightly ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deeper anteriorly, ventral margin poorly defined. Cauda: Angled ventrally, very sinuous and flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and oval, dorsal groove on raised dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and blunt or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Heniochus acuminatus, SSF No. 205.22 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Durban. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 3/10 (1.7-5. 8 mm OD, 2752 = 201mm TL, rest not measured), PEM 0373, 0008, 2752; Sodwana and Seaview; Id. GRA, GJBR, FCS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Small and slightly flared ventrally, deeper dorsally. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, sinuous and flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.5, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, may be a low ridge. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral de¬ pression: Narrow, below cauda. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Very small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Heniochus monoceros, SSF No. 205.24 PLATE 102 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Cape Vidal. At¬ tains 24 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.0, 4.9 mm OD, 50, 160 mmTL), 031 8H, PEM 15590; Philippines, Comoro Ids; Id. TH, PCH, lodged in JLBSII. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and peaked; sculpture, sinuate, develops spur. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Relatively elongate, shallow and narrow. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, becoming sinuate, deepens and flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed at ex¬ tremes. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. 167 POMACANTHIDAE Nelson No. 339 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval-ovate up to c. 12 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening, ostium elongate and approxi¬ mately oval, cauda narrow and flexed near tip or angled ventrally and slightly flexed. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum usually oval and raised, almost filling ostium, posterior colliculum very indis¬ tinct and depressed, margins may be visible. Cristae well devel¬ oped, usually not ridge-like except in some juveniles. Key 1 a. Dorsal margin of otolith peaked; short ridge on lateral surface behind peak . 2 1 b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded, may be notched; no vertical ridge on lateral surface behind dorsal margin . 4 2a. Cauda angled; dorsal wall of ostium short . . Apolemichthys trimaculatus 204.2 2b. Cauda horizontal; dorsal wall of ostium horizontal and relatively long . 3 3a. Ostium short, broad and approximately rectangular; rostrum broad and sharply rounded . . Genicanthus caudovittatus 204.6 3b. Ostium elongate, moderately broad and approximately oblong; rostrum broad and rounded . . Pygoplites diacanthus 204.13 4a. Dorsal margin of otolith flat or slightly rounded and notched posteriorly, may be depressed; posterior margin not notched . 5 4b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded and irregular; posterior margin may be notched . 7 5a. Otolith oblong or elongate; dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat; cauda approximately horizontal with slight flexion at tip. . . Pomacanthus annularis 204.7 5 b. Otoliths oval-ovate; dorsal margin of otolith not flat; cauda with distinct flexion at tip or slightly flexed along its length . 6 6a. Ostium narrow; cauda elongate and gently flexed along its length . Pomacanthus semicirculatus 204.11 6b. Ostium narrow; cauda elongate, straight, flexed near tip; dorsal margin of otolith notched just anterior to caudal flexion . Pomacanthus chrysurus 204.8 6c. Ostium relatively broad; cauda not elongate, usually straight, flexed near tip . 8 7a. Ostium broad and relatively short; crista inferior right-angled at neck . . . Pomacanthus imperator 204.9 7b. Ostium relatively narrow and elongate; crista inferior not distinctly right-angled at neck . . Pomacanthus rhomboides 204.12 8a. Sulcus angled; rostrum elongate with dorsal opening of excisura on straight rostrum; crista superior over ostium short; posterior margin not notched . . Centropyge acanthops 204.3 8b. Sulcus horizontal or slightly angled; rostrum short and dorsal opening of excisura on short and irregular rostrum; posterior margin of otolith may be notched: Centropyge bispinosus 204.4 and Centropyge multispinis 204.5 Apolemichthys trimaculatus , SSF No. 204.2 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-West Pacific; reaches Natal. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.4, 4.65 mm OD, fish not measured), 1722H, PEM 0370; locality unknown; Id. FCS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Short ridge behind dorsal peak. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Slighdy angled, straight, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3. Col- lum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped over anterior ostium then low ridge-like along cauda, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Centropyge acanthops , SSF No. 2043 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Somalia to Algoa Bay. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.6-3.85 mm OD, 69-75 mm TL), PEM 6481, 2862, 0441; ORI, Durban and SodwanaBay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex or flat. Lateral surface: Short ridge behind posterior bulge. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anteri¬ or, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, short dorsal wall. Cauda: Slightly angled ventrally and gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge over cauda, well developed at ex¬ tremes. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and indistinct. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove near margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, very shallow, angle wide. Centropyge bispinosus, SSF No. 204.4 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 4/8 (3.0-6. 1 8 mm OD, 53-88.8 mm TL), PEM 14258 (RUSI 30680), 2759, 15788, 0094; PEO, Sodwana and Comoro Ids; Id. GIBR, MIS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate or oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly pointed, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, slightly deeper than cauda, widens ventrally with growth (c. 6 mm OD). Cauda: Slightly angled, slight flexion, deeper at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed becoming ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shal¬ low, marginal groove. Rostrum: Moderately short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, if present, notch very shallow, angle wide. <- Centropyge multispinis, SSF No. 204.5 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Seychelles south to Natal. Attains 14 cm. 168 MATERIAL: 4/8 (2.3-5.2 mm OD, 30-102 mm TL), PEM 8428 (RUSI 28501), 3912, 2794, 14794 (RUSI 31397), [6797 (RUSI 37445), 8666 (RUSI 37451), 8665 (RUSI 37452)]; off St Lucia to Kosi Bay; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval. Cauda: Slightly angled and slightly flexed, ends close to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ven- trally constricted, may be slight dorsal constriction. Osti- um/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like (< c. 4.5 mm OD), well developed in large otoliths but poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly to moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow in small (5 mm OD). Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch, if present, very shallow, angle wide. Genicanthus caudovittatus , SSF No. 204.6 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Mauritius, Red Sea and east African coast to Pinda, Mozambique. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (c. 7. 1 mm OD, 145 mm TL), PEM 15720 (RUSI 42663); Eilat, Red Sea; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral Approximately flat with shallow pos- tero-ventral groove and ventral lip. Dorsal margin: Peaked; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, raised anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, broad and approxi¬ mately rectangular, dorsal wall approximately horizontal and mod¬ erately long. Cauda: Horizontal, slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed to low ridge above anterior ostium, ridge above cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large, oval and shallow, may be a shallow groove at margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pomacanthus annularis, SSF No. 204.7 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific Ocean, south to Delagoa Bay. Attains c. 35 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.28 mm OD, TL not recorded), PEM 0374; locality unknown; Id. FCS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave ventrally, only slightly concave dor- sally, almost flat. Dorsal margin: Flat to slightly rounded; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly iiTegular. Posterior margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Rectangular and elongate. Cauda: Approximately straight, slightly flexed and deeper posteriorly. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above anterior ostium, ridge above cauda, poor after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, posterior dorsal margin depressed. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Pomacanthus chrysurus, SSF No. 204.8 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, Aden south to Aliwal Shoal (30°12’S). Attains c. 33 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.92 mm OD, 228 mm TL), PEM 15388 (RUSI 40607); Madagascar; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral sur¬ face: Dorsal margin thick and flattened at notch. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, notched; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, oblong. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: At dorsal margin behind mid-point. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from flexion to mid-ostium near margin. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. Pomacanthus imperator, SSF No. 204.9 PLATE 103 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Natal, juvs to East London. Attains c. 40 cm. MATERIAL: 5/12 (2.1-8.8 mm OD, 42-315 mm TL), 0755H, PEM 4369, 7708, 5907, 6673; ORI, Kosi Bay, Ledsman Shoal and Sodwana; Id. MJS, MMS. Otolith shape: Approximately circular (c. 2 mm OD), becoming oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral ventral section more concave than dorsal part. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, serrate, irregular, may be notched. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate or slighdy irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, deepens, colliculum more raised with growth. Cauda: Sharply flexed (c. 2 mm OD), becoming more gently flexed and deeper. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Either ventrally or slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Step up to cauda becomes low collum (c. 8 mm OD). Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to flexion (c. 2 mm OD), well developed thereafter; larger otoliths have deep sulcus walls and well developed cristae along ostium and cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow, small otoliths (c. 4 mm OD) may have ridge in mid-area. Ventral depression: Absent Rostrum: Small be¬ coming moderately elongate with growth, and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Pomacanthus rhomb oides, SSF No. 204.12 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION: Southern Mozambique to Knysna. Attains c. 46 cm. MATERIAL: 6/19 (2.15-12.0 mm OD, 25-340 mm TL), PEM 4884, 8636, 6780 (RUSI 28452), 4338, 14857, 8185; Sodwana, Natal, Kosi Bay and AlgoaBay; Id. MJS, PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval or oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave, becoming more 169 concave with growth. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, may be notched; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Heteromorph, distinct anterior, indistinct posterior colli- culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, filled with colliculum. Cauda: Gently flexed and narrow. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Ventrally constricted or slight dorso-ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:0.8, 1:0.9. Collum: May be a low collum present. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like (c. 3 mm OD), well developed after flexion, well developed along entire sulcus in large otoliths. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate in juve¬ niles, absent in large otoliths (c. 12 mm OD), depression near notch on dorsal margin. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or rounded. Antirostrum: Small or minute, pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pomacanthus semicirculatus, SSF No. 204.11 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, juvs reach Algoa Bay. At¬ tains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/8 (5.4-1 1 .2 mm OD, 109-384 mm TL), PEM 6608 (RUSI 32186), 9595, 5906, [15393 (RUSI 40610)]; Kosi Bay and ORI; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave ventrally, flat dorsally. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and raised and notched posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum slightly raised, posterior indis¬ tinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and elongate. Cauda: Narrow and gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: May be very low collum in neck. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, margin depressed behind notch. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, very shallow, angle wide. Pygoplites diacanthus, SSF No. 204.13 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION : Widespread in tropical Indo-West Pacific south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.5 mm OD, 87 mm SL), 0975H; Eilat; Id. AB. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Ridge behind raised dorsal margin. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Broken. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, anterior colliculum raised, posterior indistinct. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, filled with colliculum, rostral tip may be raised. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: c. 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like from ostium to flexion, moderately well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, shallow marginal groove from ostium to beyond flexion. Rostrum: Broad, short and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow and wide. PENTACEROTIDAE Nelson No. 341 Family characteristics: Based on the single otolith available, shape is squarely ovate with ostial opening, measure at least 2.55 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, cauda distinctly closed and heteromorph with low colliculi. Histiopterus typus, SSF No. 203.1 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION: Cape Agulhas to Natal; also known from Red Sea, Oman, Japan, Philippines. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.55 mm OD, 65 mm TL), PEM 0125; PEO; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape; Squarely ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flat, raised poste¬ riorly; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin; Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded to flattened and crenate. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, lies mainly on rostrum, depressed in centre. Cauda: Approximately horizontal, tip slightly flexed, not clearly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge along anterior cauda, poorly developed elsewhere, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. OPLEGNATHIDAE Nelson No. 343 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths oblong- ovate to fusiform, up to at least 10.8 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings, ostium elongate, lying mainly along rostrum, especially in larger otoliths. Cauda straight, flexed at tip, may be deep. Heteromorph, colliculi low, may be indistinct. Crista supe¬ rior ridge-like from ostium to flexion, crista inferior ridge-like under cauda, ventral depression distinct under flexion. Key la. Otolith oblong -ovate becoming fusiform; rostrum becomes twisted and flexed along its length; cauda sharply flexed in large otolith; ostium very narrow, lies along rostrum . Oplegnathus conway i 206.1 lb. Otolith oblong-ovate to rounded fusiform; rostrum not twisted and flexed; cauda gently flexed and slightly flared; ostium moderately broad, mainly on rostrum . Oplegnathus robinsoni 206.3 Oplegnathus conwayi, SSF No. 206.1 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION: Common from False Bay to Natal. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 4/8 (3.4-10.75 mm OD, 110-628 mm TL), PEM 5485, 5568, 1081, 5567; Cape Recife, Durban and Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate to approximately fusiform. Thick¬ ness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and flattened, notched, crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, low anterior, narrow and small posterior col¬ liculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Lies mainly on rostrum, elongate becoming very narrow (c. 10 mm OD). Cauda: Straight, flexed and very deep at tip, undercutting ventral area in large otoliths (c. 10 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium 170 to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed under cauda (c. 3 mm OD), becoming broad and ridge-like (10.8 mm OD). Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: From ventral margin, under cauda to neck, deepening with growth. Rostrum: Elongate, sharply rounded, twisted and flexed in large otoliths (c. 10 mm OD). Antirostrum: Small, moderately broad and either pointed or rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Oplegnathus robinsoni, SSF No. 206.3 PLATE 104 DISTRIBUTION: Only stray juveniles south of Natal; adults common from Delagoa Bay northwards. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (5 .42-9 .4 mm OD, 180-380mmTL), PEM0721, 0297, 8248; KosiBay and PEO; Id. MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong-ovate, becoming rounded fusiform (c. 9 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat, slightly rounded or emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and notched, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, relatively broad, lies mainly on rostrum, dorsal rostral edge raised. Cauda: Approximately straight, flexed, deepening and slightly flared posteriorly. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like above anterior cauda, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, broad ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and oval. Ventral depression: From ventral margin, under cauda to neck. Rostrum: Long, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow or deep, angle varies. CICHLIDAE Nelson No. 344 Family characteristics: One species described. Otolith shape and highly irregular margins are characteristic; up to at least 7.3 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium oval, flares dor- sally; cauda with flexion near tip. Heteromorph with low but distinct colliculi. Oreochromis mossambicus, SSF No. 218.1 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: Bushmans River (eastern Cape) northwards, in fresh or salt water, rare in the open sea. Attains c. 40 cm. MATERIAL: 5/15 (2.4-7.32 mm OD, 56-233 mm TL), PEM 1676, 1677, 1669, 1670, 3385; North End Lake, Port Elizabeth; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, serrate to very irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, lobed and very irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent Ostium: Moderately deep and oval, flares dorsally. Cauda: Slightly flexed, deepening and flaring slightly posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well de¬ veloped thereafter. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow, deepening with growth. Ventral depression: Absent very shallow groove in mid-area. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. POMACENTRI DAE Nelson No. 346 Family characteristics: Otolith shape oval-ovate or oblong, up to c. 5.6 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, ostium usually wider than cauda but may be approximately same width, with either ostial or ostio-cau¬ dal openings. Ventral wall of ostium often strongly angled ven- trally. Cauda usually flexed except in those species with ostio-caudal openings. Heteromorph with low or indistinct colli¬ culi. Crista superior usually ridge-like over anterior cauda. Key la. Otolith oblong; sulcus opening ostio-caudal . 2 lb. Otolith oval-ovate; sulcus opening ostial . 3 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith flat, slightly raised posteriorly; dorsal and ventral areas very reduced; ventral margin entire and slightly rounded . . . Chromis dasygenys 219.13 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith raised and notched; dorsal area oval and raised above antirostrum and posterior part of dorsal area; ventral margin crenate and slightly rounded . Neopomacentrus cyanomos 219.29 3a. Cauda extremely wide, angled towards postero-ventral comer . Lepidozygus tapeinosoma 219.28 3b. Cauda not extremely wide, flexed or sinuous . 4 4a. Dorsal margin domed or slightly domed . 5 4b. Dorsal margin slightly rounded, may be peaked or with dorsal point . 6 5a. Dorsal margin raised and domed; dorsal area with horizontal depression across dome; cauda approximately horizontal, tip with slight, short flexion . Amphiprion akallopisos 219.8 5b. Dorsal margin rounded or raised to slightly domed; dorsal area without horizontal depression, dorsal depression oval over anterior cauda; cauda moderately wide, strongly flexed . Chromis viridis 219 .12 6a. Ostium widely flared dorsally and ventrally . 7 6b. Ostium not widely flared dorsally and ventrally .... 9 7a. Rostrum large, broad and rounded; otolith oblong- ovate . Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus 219.36 7b. Rostrum short, broad and blunt or rounded; otolith oval-ovate . 8 8a. Crista superior forms a strong, broad ridge over anterior cauda; caudal tip ends relatively far from ventral margin .... Plectroglyphidodon dickii 219.33 8b. Crista superior forms narrow ridge over anterior cauda; caudal tip ends very close to ventral margin . Plectroglyphidodon leucozonus 219.37 9a. Cauda straight, flexed tip not closed . Dascyllus cameus 219.26 9b. Cauda sinuous or strongly flexed, if almost straight, tip of cauda narrows, usually closed . 10 10a. Sulcus approximately horizontal but tip of cauda flexed . 11 10b. Sulcus angled ventrally, tip of cauda usually flexed . . 13 11a. Ventral margin of ostium ventrally flexed; dorsal margin of otolith raised but slightly emarginate anteriorly; caudal tip not closed, may be groove to margin . . Abudefduf sexfasciatus 219.4 1 lb. Ventral margin of ostium approximately horizontal; dorsal margin of otolith raised but not emarginate anteriorly; tip of cauda closed . 12 12a. Dorsal margin of otolith raised and emarginate or slightly emarginate posteriorly; ostium wide and relatively widely flared dorsally; crista superior over cauda forms a broad ridge to flexion; posterior margin narrow and sharply rounded . . Amphiprion allardi 219 .9 171 12b. Dorsal margin of otolith raised and rounded or slightly peaked; ostium not widely flared dorsally; crista superior forms a narrower ridge to slightly beyond flexion; posterior margin of otolith relatively broad and rounded . Pomacentrus trilineatus 219.42 13a. Rostrum large and rounded; antero-ventral margin of ostium strongly curved ventrally . . Abudefduf sordidus 219.5 13b. Rostrum shorter, may be rounded or sharply rounded; antero-ventral margin of ostium either horizontal or slightly ventrally curved . 14 14a. Cauda strongly sinuous and elongate; ventral margin of ostium distinctly sinuous and curved ventrally; posterior margin of otolith depressed . . Dascyllus trimaculatus 219.27 14b. Cauda slightly sinuous, curved or approximately straight; ventral margin of ostium slightly curved ventrally, may be slightly sinuous; posterior margin of otolith not depressed . 15 15a. Ventral margin of otolith well rounded, may appear bulbous; rostrum small, broad and sharply rounded . Chromis dimidiata 219.14 15b. Ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded, does not appear bulbous; rostrum narrower or short, broad and rounded . 16 16a. Ventral margin of ostium barely constricted at neck . . . 17 16b. Ventral margin of ostium distinctly constricted at neck . 18 17a. Cauda more elongate and strongly flexed at tip . . Chrysiptera leucopoma 219.23 17b. Cauda shorter, slightly flexed with deep groove on floor at tip . Pomacentrus trichourus 219.41 18a. Cauda distinctly wide . . . Abudefduf vaigiensis 219.7 18b. Cauda narrow or not distinctly wide . 19 19a. Cauda angled ventrally and slightly curved along its length; dorsal margin of otolith flat and oblique anteriorly . Chromis nigrura 219.16 19b. Cauda slightly curved or sinuous, tip distinctly flexed; antero-dorsal margin not flat and oblique ... 20 20a. Ventral margin of ostium slightly sinuous and angled ventrally; cauda relatively short but strongly flexed . Chromis weberi 219.19 20b. Ventral margin of ostium approximately horizontal to slightly sinuous, not strongly angled ventrally; cauda relatively more elongate and flexed . 21 21a. Ostium relatively short and broad; cauda extends closer to posterior margin; rostrum short, broad and rounded; dorsal margin of otolith rounded . . Abudefduf sparoides 219.6 21b. Ostium relatively elongate and narrow; cauda not as close to posterior margin; rostrum larger, broad and rounded or sharply rounded; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded, may become peaked . . Chromis opercularis 219.17 Abudefduf sexfasciatus, SSF No. 219.4 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea, south to Pinda, Mozambique. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (4.0, 5.0 mm OD, 120, c. 145 mm TL), PEM 0364, 5917; Durban, Natal; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Ridge under dorsal peak in large (>4.5 mm OD) otoliths. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and peaked; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin; Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero- sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and deep, ventral wall curved ventrally at anterior. Cauda: Straight and strongly flexed, tip not closed, may be groove to margin at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted, curved dorsally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along anterior cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove from margin to caudal tip. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Abudefduf sordidus, SSF No. 219.5 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific to Hawaiian Ids; south to Port Alfred. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 2/6 (3.0, 3.7 mm OD, 100, 155 mm TL), PEM 0445, 6594; ORI; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin; Rounded and raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded to flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Reduced and narrow, lies along rostrum with ventral margin curved ventrally. Cauda: Angled ventrally, gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction, dorsally curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate to large and rounded, flexed ventrally and laterally. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Abudefduf sparoides, SSF No. 219.6 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: From Kenya to Transkei coast, also at Reunion, Mauritius and probably Madagascar. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.4, 3.05 mm OD, 58, 85 mm TL), PEM 2841, 2840; Kosi Bay; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Moderately deep, with ventral margin almost hori¬ zontal, slightly curved ventrally. Cauda: Anterior approximately horizontal, moderately strongly flexed. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Ventrally constricted, dorsal gently curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like along cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, dorsal area slopes to margin. Ventral depression: Shallow and oval below caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Abudefduf vaigiensis, SSF No. 219.7 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Port Al¬ fred. Attains 20 cm. 172 MATERIAL: 4/13 (2.3-5.0 mm OD, 72-c. 170 mm TL), PEM 2839,4353, 8790(RUSI37516), 5914, [8789 (RUSI 37516), 6647 (RUSI 28455), 15437 (RUSI 40585)]; Limestone, ORI and Kosi Bay; Id. MIS, GA, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Dorsal ridge with pit on dorsal edge. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and raised or peaked; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Shar¬ ply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, het- erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and deep. Cauda: Wide, angled ventrally, slightly flexed and deepening at tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted with slight dorsal curve. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.4, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed at anterior, ridge-like along cauda, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Above crista, may extend to margin. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove near margin from caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small to moderate, rounded becoming pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow or moderate, angle varies. Amphiprion akallopisos, SSF No. 219.8 PLATE 105 DISTRIBUTION: Reefs of tropical Indian Ocean (except Maldi¬ ves and Sri Lanka) and the Seribu Ids (Java Sea); south to Aliwal Shoal (near Durban). Attains 9 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.6, 3.0 mm OD, 60, 72 mm TL), PEM 11312, 8873; ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and domed; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep, collicu¬ lum protrudes through excisura. Cauda: Approximately horizon¬ tal, tip with slight, short flexion, walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted, slight curve ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal de¬ pression: Dorsal area with horizontal depression across dome. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Amphiprion cillardi, SSF No. 219.9 Plate 106 DISTRIBllON: Known only from east Africa as far south as Durban. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 4/14 (2.3-4.3 mm OD, 63-128 mm TL), PEM 4388, 6758 (RUSI 28453), 6130 (RUSI 17187), 8633, [8430 (RUSI 34127), 8786-8788, 8631 & 8632 (all RUSI 37518)]; Kosi Bay, ORI and Ledsman Shoal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to approximately oblong, to rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: May be ridge under ostium. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded, becoming emarginate posteriorly (c. 3 mm OD); sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colli¬ culum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, deep, colliculum protrudes through excisura. Cauda: Approxi¬ mately horizontal, short flex at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Either dorsally or dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, broad ridge along cauda to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate over crista, dorsal margin depressed. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and rounded to pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch, if present very shallow, angle wide. Chromis dasygenys, SSF No. 219.13 PLATE 106 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Delagoa Bay to Durban but probably extends further south. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.1, 4.85 mmOD, 102, 122 mmTL), PEM 3902, 4339; Brighton Beach and Durban; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat and slightly emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, distinct anterior, low posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Al¬ most filled with oval colliculum, protrudes through dorsal margin, ventral margin poorly defined. Cauda: Wide, contains narrow colliculum, posterior poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: High ridge to mid-cauda, absent over posterior. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Groove in centre of ridge, dorsal area very reduced, postero-dorsal margin depressed. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small or very small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. Chromis dimidiata, SSF No. 219.14 PLATE 106 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indian Ocean; Red Sea to Durban. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 5/24 (1. 6-3.6 mm OD, 30-70 mm TL), PEM 8446, 8424, 2659, 8423 (RUSI 28499), 8871, [8426 (RUSI 34105)]; ORI, Kosi Bay and Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Well rounded, may appear bulbous, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flares dorsally. Cauda: Sinuous, narrow, angled and flexed with poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded becoming sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or small, sharply rounded or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chromis nigrura, SSF No. 219.16 PLATE 106 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical western Indian Ocean to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; south to Transkei coast Attains 6 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (1.5-2.1 mm OD, 39-51 mm TL), PEM 2772, 2771, 2856; Sodwana Bay; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded with flat oblique anterior margin; sculpture, slightly 173 irregular or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate or irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with very low anterior, indistinct posterior collicu¬ lum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and moderately deep. Cauda: Angled ventrally, slighdy curved along its length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge- like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chromis opercularis, SSF No. 219.17 PLATE 106 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indian Ocean, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (4.7-5.6 mm OD, 126-156 mm TL), PEM 8246 (RUSI 28514), 14793 (RUSI 31385), 15785, 6647 (RUSI 28455), 14792 (RUSI 31416); St Lucia, ORI, Comoro Ids, Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate to moder¬ ately thick in large otoliths. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or peaked; sculpture, serrate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flares dorsally, low colliculum protrudes through excisura, depression near neck. Cauda: Straight, flexed and deep¬ ening posteriorly, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.5, 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, shallow groove close to margin from cauda to under ostium. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chromis viridis, SSF No. 219.12 PLATE 106 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Inhaca. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.45, c. 1.5 mm OD, 44, 46 mm TL), 1038H, 1037H; Eilat; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded, raised to slightly domed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Dor¬ sal wall flared dorsally, reduced and narrow, lying mainly along rostrum. Cauda: Moderately wide, strongly flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like to flexion, well developed to tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, postero-dorsal margin depressed. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chromis weberi, SSF No. 219.19 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific; abundant at Sod¬ wana Bay and Aliwal Shoal (near Durban). Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (3.3-4.15 mm OD, 93-113 mm TL), PEM 2901, 2801, 2769; Sodwana; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, ventral wall angled slightly ventrally. Cauda: Straight, flexed and deepening at flexion with poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped over ostium and after flexion, ridge-like over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Chrysiptera leucopoma, SSF No. 219.23 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.3, 2.3 mm OD, 58, 61 mm TL), PEM 2847, 2716; Sodwana and Kosi Bays; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, slightly raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally and ventrally, deeper at neck. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted, ventrally barely constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dor¬ sal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shal¬ low groove near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow if pre¬ sent, angle wide. Dascyllus carneus, SSF No. 219.26 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indian Ocean and lava Sea south to Durban. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (1.7-2.85 mm OD, 44-84 mm TL), 0996H, PEM 14242 (RUSI 30632), 15789; Comoro Ids and Eilat; Id. PCH, AD. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Well rounded, becoming slightly rounded, may have rounded notch and a point; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, flattened posteriorly, may be notched and slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Rounded, narrowing and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared and moderately deep. Cauda: Fairly broad, angled ventrally, flexed near tip and open. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:2.4, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like to flexion, well developed after flexion, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed 174 under anterior cauda, broad ridge under posterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed or rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Dascyllus trimaculatus , SSF No. 219.27 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Great Fish Point. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 3/9 (3.8-4.5 mm OD, 100-141 mm TL), PEM 8791 (RUSI 37435), 2812, 2811; Sodwana Bay; Id. GJBR, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded or raised to a peak; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or notched, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as caudal tip indistinct, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Deep, ventral margin sinuous and flexed ventrally. Cauda: Sinuous, moderately deep, flexed, tip closed but poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly ventrally con¬ stricted, dorsal margin curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.7, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium becoming ridge-like to flexion then well developed, but tip very poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, dorsal margin uneven and depressed. Ventral depression: Absent, posterior margin depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle varies. Lepidozygus tapeinosoma, SSF No. 219.28 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Durban. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/6 (2.3, 2.5 mm OD, 73, 79 mm TL), PEM 14234 & 14236 (both RUSI 30635); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Emarginate anteriorly, raised and rounded posteriorly; sculpture, approxi¬ mately entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared dorsally and moderately deep, colliculum penetrates excisura. Cauda: Very wide, flared dorsally, horizontal then angled ventrally to point. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted, slight ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.4, 1:2.2. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: High ridge to mid-cauda then well developed. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Groove along ridge, area sharply angled to margin. Ventral depression: Absent, mar¬ gin below caudal tip depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Short and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Neopomacentrus cyanomos, SSF No. 219.29 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indian Ocean and Indo- Australian Ar¬ chipelago; south to Kosi Bay. Attains 9 cm. MATERIAL: 2/4, same No. (2.5, 2.55 mm OD, TL not recorded), 1746H; locality unknown; Id. FCS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and notched; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, flares dorsally, with distinct colliculum, dorsal margin poorly defined. Cauda: Ventral margin horizontal, postero-dorsal mar¬ gin very poorly defined, colliculum long and straight. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent over ostium, high ridge over cauda, absent at posterior. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elon¬ gate groove in ridge, dorsal area very reduced, sharply angled to margin. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow, narrow groove at ventral margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Plectroglyphidodon dickii, SSF No. 219.33 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 1 1 cm. MATERIAL: 1/2 (2.5mm OD, 60mm TL), PEM 14245; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, ventral margin sinuous and ventrally angled. Cauda: Sinu¬ ous and flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorso- ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and after flexion, narrow and ridge-like above anterior cauda, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well de¬ veloped under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch extremely shallow and angle wide. Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus, SSF No. 219.36 PLATE 107 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.354.3 mm OD, 74-87 mm TL), PEM 15657, 1014H, PEM 14266 (RUSI 31144); Eilat and Comoro Ids; Id. PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Raised to apeak; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, elongate, ventral margin angled ventrally. Cauda: Sinuous and flexed posteriorly, tip indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight ventral constriction, dorsal curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped over anterior ostium and after flexion, ridge-like above cauda, very poor at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well de¬ veloped along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, narrow groove near margin. Rostrum: Large, relatively elongate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or very small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Plectroglyphidodon leucozonus, SSF No. 21937 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific south to the Tran- skei. Attains 12 cm. 175 MATERIAL: 3/4 (2.55-3.5 mm OD, 93-c. 120 mm TL), PEM 2679, 6766 (RUSI 28454), 0878; Sodwana, Durban and Botla Point; Id. JER, GRA, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as caudal tip close to margin, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, steep-walled, ventral margin sinu¬ ous and angled ventrally. Cauda: Sinuous and flexed, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted, dorsally curved. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.5, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, forms broad, strong ridge over anterior cauda, well developed after flexion, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove near ventral margin. Rostrum: Short, broad, blunt and angular. Antirostrum: Very small and pointed. Ex- cisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pomacentrus trichourus, SSF No. 219.41 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.6, 4.05 mm OD, 47, 82 mm TL), PEM 8422 (RUSI 28500), 15783; Kosi Bay, Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, becomes slightly raised or peaked; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate, becoming blunt and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, approximately triangular. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, flexed and groove on floor at flexion. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly dorsally, barely ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like along cauda, may be absent at tip. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, margin groove develops (c. 4 mm OD). Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Pomacentrus trilineatus , SSF No. 219.42 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Found along the east African coast north of Inhaca, at Madagascar and the Red Sea. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.45, 3.9 mm OD, 78, 101 mm TL), 1205H, 1204H; Red Sea; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised, rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, extremely indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Deep, oval and ventral wall approximately horizontal, flares dorsally. Cauda: Deep, horizontal anterior, flexed and expanded and indistinct at tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium and after flexion, ridge-like along anterior cauda, very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small or small, and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. CIRRHITIDAE Nelson No. 348 Family characteristics: Otoliths oblong to oblong-ovate, up to c. 6.1 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Cauda straight and flexed or slightly flexed at tip. Heteromorph with very low or indistinct colliculi. Key la. Otolith oblong . 2 lb. Otolith oblong-ovate . 4 2a. Ostium short and broad; antero-dorsal wall poorly developed, may appear absent . . Amblycirrhitus bimacula 214.1 2b. Ostium elongate; dorsal wall of ostium moderately well developed or ridge-like . 3 3a. Dorsal wall of ostium elongate and slightly curved ventrally; dorsal area narrow . . Paracirrhites forsteri 214.7 3b. Dorsal wall of ostium slightly flared and relatively shorter; dorsal area wider . . Paracirrhites arcatus 214.6 4a. Cauda gently flexed; ventral margin of otolith only slightly depressed . 5 4b. Cauda straight and sharply flexed near tip; ventral margin of otolith distinctly depressed . 6 5a. Otolith narrow and elongate; crista inferior distinctly constricted at neck; walls of ostium parallel; cauda elongate; dorsal and ventral areas of otolith narrow; ridge on lateral surface from postero-ventral corner to nucleus . Cirrhitus pinnulatus 214.3 5b. Otolith broader; crista inferior only slightly constricted at neck; walls of ostium slightly flared dorsally; dorsal and ventral area relatively broad; lateral surface with no distinct features . . Paracirrhites arcatus 214.6 6a. Crista superior a broad, rounded ridge; excisural notch shallow; postero-ventral comer of otolith produced or pointed . Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus 214.2 6b. Crista superior a narrow ridge; excisural notch relatively deep; posterior margin of otolith sharply rounded . Cyprinocirrhites polyactis 214.5 Amblycirrhitus bimacula , SSF No. 214.1 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; extends south to Durban. Attains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.3 mm OD, 63 mm TL), PEM 2855; Sodwana Bay; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly raised; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior slightly raised, posterior colliculum extremely indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Flared, depressed in anterior and centre, dorsal margin poorly developed, ventral wall approximately horizontal. Cauda: Moderately deep, straight, flexed near tip which is not distinctly closed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to cauda, absent over anterior ostium and caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depres¬ sion: Margin depressed under caudal tip, shallow groove in mid- ventral area. Rostrum: Very short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent. 176 Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus, SSF No. 214.2 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific and tropical eastern Pacific. Ex¬ tends south to East London. Attains 9.5 cm MATERIAL: 3/1 1 (2.3-2.85 mm OD, 58-78mm TL), PEM 14244 (RUSI 30610), 2766, 2912; Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids; Id. GRA, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally, ventral margin approximately horizontal, depressed in central and anterior ostium. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip, deep, posterior wall of tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.0, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Broad, rounded ridge from ostium to flexion, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Moderately well devel¬ oped with low ridge under flexion. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Margin depressed under caudal tip, and distinct groove near margin from ostium to caudal tip. Ros¬ trum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow if present, angle wide. Cirrhitus pinnulatus, SSF No. 214.3 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; in this area south to Port Alfred. Attains at least 28 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.15, 6.08 mm OD, 207, 223 mm TL), 0635H, PEM 2732; Sodwana and Durban; Id. MMS, GJBR, TH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Ridge from postero- ventral comer to nucleus. Dorsal margin: Slighdy rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, deep, approximately parallel dorsal and ventral margins and very deep. Cauda: Straight, deep, flexed near tip and moder¬ ately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus length, poor at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus length. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent or shallow. Ventral depression: Absent or very shallow. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Cyprinocirrhites polyactis, SSF No. 214.5 PLATE 108 DISTRIBUTION: East Africa to western Pacific; south to Algoa Bay. Attains c. 14 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.4 mm OD, 174 mm TL), PEM 7720 (RUSI 20111); ORI; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Approximately flat; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indented and not distinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared and deep. Cauda: Straight, sharply flexed, deep. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion and at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium and anterior cauda, ridge-like under flexion. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep, margin depressed. Ventral depression: Depressed under flexion, ventral groove from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Elongate, large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Paracirrhites arcatus , SSF No. 214.6 PLATE 109 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific south to the Transkei. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.35-3.44 mm OD, 58-93 mm TL), PEM 2911, 14243, 2908; Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids; Id. GRA, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to oblong -ovate. Thickness: Moderate to moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised; sculpture, entire or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Slightly flared, deepens anteriorly with steep walls. Cauda: Slighdy sinuate, flexed at tip, posterior wall of tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent, may be slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well devel¬ oped at anterior ostium, well developed or low ridge from mid¬ ostium to flexion, after flexion poorly developed. Crista inferior: Moderately developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow (<2.5mm OD), absent in larger otoliths. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, shallow ventral groove in small otoliths (<3.5 mm OD). Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or shallow, angle wide. Paracirrhites forsteri, SSF No. 214.7 PLATE 109 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Inhaca, Mozambique. Attains c. 22 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.4 mm OD, 65 mm TL), 0801H; Sodwana; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Oval, elongate, moderately shallow. Cauda: Approximately straight with short flexion near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to flexion, moderately well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda, short ridge after flexion. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Under caudal tip, very shallow ventral groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent CHEILODACTYLIDAE Nelson No 351 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval or oblong-ovate to fusiform, up to at least 9.5 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening but may become ostio-caudal with growth and erosion of posterior margin. Ostium initially small and approximately triangular and flared, becoming reduced, narrow and lies mainly along rostrum. Cauda straight, flexed, flared and deep at tip. Heteromorph, ante¬ rior colliculum may be nodular, posterior usually indistinct. Crista superior ridge-like to mid-cauda, ventral area has deep groove in larger specimens. 177 KEY 1 a. Otolith fusiform; rostrum elongate and narrow; ventral margin of otolith approximately flat . . Cheilodactylus fasciatus 215.1 lb. Otolith may be fusiform; rostrum shorter or raised dorsally if elongate; ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded or sinuate . 2 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith emarginate . 3 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded . 4 3a. Crista superior a short ridge; posterior margin of otolith erodes and sulcus opening becomes ostio-caudal; rostrum tapering and pointed; ventral groove short, extends just beyond neck; antirostrum short . . Chirodactylus brachydactylus 215.3 3b. Crista superior ridge extends to flexion; posterior margin of otolith entire; sulcus opening ostial; rostrum short, tapering; ventral groove extends to caudal tip; antirostrum elongate .... Chirodactylus grandis 215.4 4a. Crista superior a short ridge; ostium moderately broad, lies along rostrum; anterior colliculum nodular; cauda sharply flexed and deep, undercuts ventral area; rostrum elongate; ventral area may be grooved and irregular . . . . Chirodactylus jessicalenorum 215.5 4b. Crista superior ridge-like to flexion; ostium very narrow; anterior colliculum indistinct; cauda less deep, does not undercut ventral area; rostrum short and tapered; ventral area not markedly grooved . . . Cheilodactylus pixi 215.2 Cheilodactylus fasciatus, SSF No. 215.1 PLATE 109 DISTRIBUTION: Subtidally to 25 m, from Kunene River, Na¬ mibia to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 5/50 ( 1 .79-6.5 mm OD, 74-275 mm TL), PEM 2306, 10380, 12603, 1138 (RUSI 8563), 11343; Algoa Bay and vicinity; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval (<2mm OD) becoming fusiform (c. 6 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flat, crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior indistinct, posterior collicu¬ lum has slightly raised margin. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and deep, mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Approxi¬ mately straight, flexed at tip and deep. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight dorsal constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed with short ridge under flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow and covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Margin depressed under caudal tip, joining ventral margin groove which extends as far as ostium in large otoliths (>5 mm OD). Rostrum: Short and broad (<2 mm OD) becoming elongate and pointed (>2.8 mm OD). Antiros¬ trum: Minute becoming large and sharply rounded (>5 mm OD). Excisura: Moderate becoming wide, notch shallow, deepening with growth, angle wide becoming acute. Cheilodactylus pixi, SSF No. 215.2 PLATE 109 DISTRIBUTION: From Knysna to Coffee Bay, Transkei. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 4/65 (2.0-4.75 mm OD, 82-186 mm TL), PEM 5587, 3193 (RUSI 11622), 5340 (RUSI 13870), 4526; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate (c. 2 mm OD) becoming approximately oblong-ovate (>3.5 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, anterior indistinct, posterior colliculum ventral margin raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and deep, lies mainly along rostrum in large otoliths (c. 4 mm OD). Cauda: Straight with flexion at wide, deep tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Broken ridge from ostium to flexion, moderately poorly developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a nodular groove near margin. Rostrum: Short and broad becoming moderate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Moderate, broad and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, becoming wide, notch moderate becoming deep, angle wide. Chirodactylus brachydactylus, SSF No. 215.3 PLATE 109 DISTRIBUTION: Walvis Bay to Delagoa Bay. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 4/60 (2.05-6.55 mm OD, 87-381 mm TL), PEM 2613 (RUSI 11442), 14398, 2941, 0052; Cape south coast; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate (c. 2 mm OD) becoming oblong-ovate (c. 4 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to raised posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or rounded and notched, lobed or irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio-caudal with erosion of posterior wall (c. 6.5 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi slightly raised. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, may have irregular granulations on col¬ liculum. Cauda: Approximately straight, deepens and expands at flexed tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, may be step up to cauda in large otoliths. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed to tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: Elongate, dorsal margin erodes to join it in large otoliths (c. 6.6 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent, ventral groove becomes deep in large otoliths (c. 5.4 mm OD). Rostrum: Short and broad becoming elongate and pointed, curves laterally. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, becoming wide, notch shallow becoming moderate, angle varies. Chirodactylus grandis, SSF No. 215.4 PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION: From Walvis Bay along Cape south coast, possibly to Natal. Attains at least 1 m. MATERIAL: 5/33 (1.5-9.1 mm OD, 60-870 mm TL), PEM 7193, 11632, 12204, 0311, 10264; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate to oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, slightly ir¬ regular or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Osti¬ um: Flared, lies mainly along rostrum, colliculum nodular. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, deepens and widens at slightly flexed tip, sulcus becomes deeper with growth. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, may be step up to cauda. Crista superior: Uneven ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, well 178 developed to tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus (c. 1.5 mm OD) becoming an uneven, broad ridge. Dorsal depression: Elongate, may join the dorsal margin with erosion in large specimens (c. 9 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent, deep groove in mid-area in large otoliths (>5 mm OD). Rostrum: Short and broad becoming elongate and pointed, curves laterally with growth. Antirostrum: Small becoming large and pointed (c. 5 mm OD). Excisura: Moderate, becoming wide, notch shallow, be¬ coming deep, angle wide becoming acute. Chirodactylus jessicalenorum, SSF No. 215.5 PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION : Coffee Bay (Transkei) to Sodwana Bay. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (6.8, 9.4 mm OD, 440, 795 mm TL), PEM 9632, 12460; Algoa Bay and ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate or fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly raised or flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat, crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, nodular anteri¬ or, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, lies mainly on rostrum with nodular colliculum. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip, deep, undercutting ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/ cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Uneven ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, well developed to tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under ostium and after flexion, may be ridge under anterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Short, deep depression above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, deep grooves usually present. 'Rostrum: Large, elongate, raised dor- sally and pointed. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate to deep, angle acute. CEPOLIDAE Nelson No. 354 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths rhomboi- dal or rounded rectangular up to c. 10 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial or para-ostial openings, heteromorph. Ostium elongate, angled dorsally with low, oval colliculum. Cauda short and round with low round colliculum. Cristae poorly developed except for crista superior with low ridge from mid-ostium to mid cauda. Owstonia cf. weberi?, SSF No. 226.- PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION: Trawled in 190- 350m, from Natal to Kenya. Attains 52 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (5.48-9.9 mm OD, 90-260 mm SL), PEM 5090 & 5089 (both RUSI 14018), 1578H, 1585H, 5091 (RUSI 14018); Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rhomboid al or rounded rectangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex or flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or flat, crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or flat, approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Para-ostial or ostial (un¬ coated may appear mesial), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph with distinct and slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Angled dorsally, elongate with large, oval colliculum, poorly defined ventral wall. Cauda: Approximately circular and small with round colliculum and poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.5, 1:0.4. Collum: Low, joining cristae. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed along anterior ostium and caudal tip, low curved ridge from mid-ostium to mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depres¬ sion: Shallow crescentic depression in mid-area. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Minute or moderate, notch very shal¬ low, angle acute. MUGILIDAE Nelson No. 355 Family characteristics: Otoliths oval becoming oblong with growth, up to at least 13 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium usually oval or rounded, cauda characteristically elongate, narrow and usually sinuous, may have recurved tip. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low, posterior usually indistinct but crystalline. Dorsal area often reduced with sulcus close to margin, ventral margin angled and depressed or depressed as a step. Lateral surface has a strong ridge behind sulcus malting the otoliths moderately thick. Key 1 a. Dorsal margin of otolith with distinct broad emargination, raised anteriorly and posteriorly . 2 lb. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or flattened . 5 2a. Sulcus approximately straight, cauda flexed at tip; otolith narrows posteriorly. . Valamugil robustus 222.14 2b. Sulcus sinuous with caudal tip flexed or slightly flexed . 3 3a. Cauda strongly sinuous; dorsal margin in the emarginate area is curved, following shape of cauda; anterior raised area of dorsal margin lobe-like over neck; ventral area stepped down, approximately 2/3rds of ventral area is dis¬ tinctly depressed . Valamugil buchanani 222.12 3b. Cauda less sinuous; dorsal margin edge either flattened and angled or horizontal; anterior raised area of dorsal margin raised and curved or angled but not lobe-like; ventral area depressed as angle or slight step, but depressed area smaller . 4 4a. Emarginate area of dorsal margin flattened and angled; antero-dorsal comer of otolith sharply angled; otolith moderately broad; cauda distinctly sinuous; ventral area slopes to margin angularly. . Crenimugil crenilabis 222.1 4b. Emargination of dorsal margin less marked; antero-dorsal comer of otolith more rounded; cauda slightly sinuous; ventral area sharply depressed with step . Valamugil seheli 222.15 5a. Cauda almost straight, not sinuous, slightly curved along its length . Mugil cephalus 222.10 5b. Cauda sinuous or slightly sinuous, tip curved or recurved . 6 6a. Ostium short, deep and rounded dorsally and ventrally (cup-like); cauda strongly sinuous; postero-ventral margin of otolith slightly produced; caudal tip usually recurved . Myxus capensis 222.1 1 6b. Ostium moderately elongate, not distinctly rounded and cup-like; cauda slightly sinuous or almost straight, flexed near tip, may be recurved . 7 7a. Ostium only slightly wider than cauda, not flared widely dorsally . 8 7b. Ostium slightly bulbous ventrally, flares slightly or flares widely dorsally . 9 8a. Ostium short; cauda sinuous; cauda flexes towards dorsal margin, tip sharply curved or recurved; ventral margin of otolith depressed . . . Liza richardsonii 222.7 8b. Ostium elongate and narrow; cauda slightly flexed, almost straight, tip curved; postero-ventral comer of otolith depressed . Liza tricuspidens 222.8 179 9a. Ostium short, flared dorsally, slightly bulbous ventrally; cauda slightly sinuous to almost straight, tip flexed or recurved . Liza dumerilii 222.3 9b. Ostium moderately long; cauda slightly sinuous, tip strongly curved to recurved . 10 10a. Ostium strongly bulbous ventrally; postero-ventral comer bulbous and depressed with diagonal groove at its base . Liza alata 222.2 10b. Ostium oval and elongate; cauda sinuous to approximately straight; ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded, not bulbous, may have hole in ventral area with groove to caudal tip . . Liza macrolepis 222.5 Crenimugil crenilabis, SSF No. 222.1 PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Marshall and Tuamoto Ids, Japan, Red Sea and south to Transkei. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.5 mm OD, 242 mm TL), 1 179H; Red Sea; Id. IP. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Emarginate and flat, raised anterior and posterior comers; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, deep and flared widely. Cauda: Sinuate, narrow and walls steep, flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Very poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depression: Absent, margin with angled depression. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Liza alata , SSF No. 222.2 PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, reaches AlgoaBay. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.9 mm OD, 270 mm TL), 0468H; Transkei; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Ap¬ proximately flattened; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notched and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and notched, serrate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior slightly raised, posterior colliculum indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Approximately oval. Cauda: Sinuous, walls steep, narrow and deep at flexion, tip recurved. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Col¬ lum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, well developed over anterior cauda, ridge-like from mid-cauda to tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, small and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed and angled, posterior comer bulbous, depressed and with a diagonal groove. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch absent. Liza dumerilii , SSF No. 222.3 PLATE 110 DISTRIBUTION: Senegal to southern Angola; in this area from Breede River to Bazaruto Is. Attains nearly 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/50 (4. 1-9 .49 mm OD, 87-274mmSL), PEM 1049, 1047, 1164; Knysna and Swartkops; Id. HMK, GJBR. Otolith shape; Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened becoming emarginate with growth; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, oval and dorsally flared. Cauda: Very slightly sinuous, narrow, steep walled, flexed and strongly recurved tip. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.5, 1:3, 1:2.8. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like along cauda to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, dorsal area reduced becomes eroded. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow if present, angle wide. Liza macrolepis , SSF No. 222.5 PLATE 111 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, most abundant mullet in Mozambique and Natal, reaches Port Alfred. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (7.0-7.92 mm OD, 225-263 mm TL), PEM 1039, 1022, 1038; Swartkops estuary; Id. HMK. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat, may be slightly emarginate posteriorly; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and digitate and very irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and ir¬ regular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately long, deeper than cauda, flared dorsally. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, narrow, flexed and slightly recurved at tip, walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.6, 1:1.7. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium, well developed along cauda except for short ridge in mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval, small and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed and angled, especially below caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Liza richardsonii, SSF No. 222.7 PLATE 111 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Kunene River to St Lucia, abundant between southwest Cape and Agulhas. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 4/82 (3.0- 10.5 mm OD, 79-371 mm TL), PEM 1499, 10422, 10418, 2434; Cape south coast; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate becoming moder¬ ately thick with growth. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral con¬ cave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and flared. Cauda: Sinuous, narrow, walls steep, flexed and recurved at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.4, 1:2.9, 1:2.5, 1:3.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium, well developed along cauda but ridge-like in mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, becoming deeper with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, 180 margin depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed or rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Liza tricuspidens, SSF No. 222.8 PLATE 111 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Mossel Bay to Kosi Estuary (also recorded from Angola). Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 5/70 (3.73-10.44 mm OD, 123-540 mm TL), PEM 1522, 9933, 10425, 2264, 1441; southeastern Cape; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave, almost flat in juveniles (c. 4 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep, short and narrow, walls almost horizontal, ostium only slightly wider than cauda. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, walls steep; tip flexed, becoming right-angled (c. 10 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.0, 1:2.1, 1:2.3, 1:2.9, 1:2.7. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and posterior cauda, low ridge above mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed and angled. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or blunt. Antiros¬ trum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. Mugil cephalus, SSF No. 222.10 PLATE 111 DISTRIBUTION: In all warm and temperate seas, estuaries and rivers. Attains 60 cm MATERIAL: 6/56 (2. 1-1 3.0 mm OD, 55-736mm TL), PEM 1503, 1050, 1659, 3872, 2389, 10348; Cape south coast estuaries; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or emarginate, serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or blunt and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior, indis¬ tinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flares widely dorsally, ventral wall bulges ventrally. Cauda: Approximately straight, slight ventral flexion along the length. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.5, 1:2.1, 1:1.9, 1:1.8, 1:1.7, 1:2.5. Collum: Absent, slight step may be present. Crista superior: Very poorly developed over ostium, well developed over posterior cauda, ridge-like along mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elon¬ gate, deepening with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, mar¬ gin depressed and angled. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed (<4 mm OD) becoming sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Myxus capensis, SSF No. 222.11 PLATE 111 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Knysna to Natal, mainly in rivers. Attains nearly 50 cm. MATERIAL: 5/17 (6.4-12.25 mm OD, 225-482 mm TL), PEM 1154, 1150, 0769, 1210, 2531; Cape south Coast estuaries; Id. HMK, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or slightly emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded, digitate, dentate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum slightly raised, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide, flared, short and rounded. Cauda: Sinuate to strongly sinuate, walls steep, flexed tip may be strongly recurved. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.5, 1:3.3, 1:3.4, 1:3.1, 1:3.4. Collum: Absent, may be a step to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium, well developed over posterior cauda, ridge-like in mid- cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, ventral margin depressed and angled, may be a posterior groove behind caudal tip in large otoliths (c. 12 mm OD). Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. Valamugil buchanani , SSF No. 222.12 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread and abundant in warm waters of Indo-West Pacific south to Knysna. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (10.6, 11.12 mm OD, 484, 566 mm TL), PEM 6500, 2825; Kosi Bay and Bluewater Bay; Id. RvdE, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, emarginate in centre, raised anterior and posterior; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and notched, irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, raised anterior colliculum, indistinct posterior. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately elongate, deeper than cauda, margins irregular. Cauda: Narrow, sinuous, gently flexed poste¬ riorly, walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:3.1, 6500 broken. Collum: Absent, step present. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Small, dorsal area very reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, margin sharply depressed, like step. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Valamugil robustus, SSF No. 222.14 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Transkei to Inhambane and Madagascar, com¬ mon in Mozambique. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.88 mm OD, 255 mm TL), PEM 8239 (RUSI 37467); Kosi Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: An¬ gled and emarginate, raised anteriorly and posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, slightly raised anterior colliculum, posterior indistinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately shallow, short and flares dorsally, dorsal wall steep. Cauda: Approximately straight, flexed near tip with steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3. Collum: Absent, with slight step. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like along cauda to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, margin angled and depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. 181 Valamugil seheli, SSF No. 222.15 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Transkei, common in southern Mozambique estuaries. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (7.0-9.46 mm OD, 225-364 mm TL), 1167H, 1 166H, 1055H; Gulf of Aqaba; Id. IP. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Emarginate in centre, raised anteriorly and posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notched and irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate, lobed or irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flaring, deep, ends in a V-shape posteri¬ orly. Cauda: Slightly sinuate, slightly flexed, walls steep, tip may be sharp and recurved. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9, 1:1.6, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, marked step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped over ostium and tip of cauda, low ridge along most of cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate, dorsal area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, margin sharply de¬ pressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. SPHYRAENIDAE Nelson No. 356 Family characteristics: Five species described. Otoliths oblong up to at least 15 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium oval to spear-shaped, cauda straight, may have very slight flexion at tip. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum low to indistinct, posterior very low to indistinct. Cristae usually moderately well developed but may be ridge -like along most of cauda. Key la. Otoliths narrow and elongate; crista superior poorly developed over ostium . 2 lb. Otoliths broad, oblong; crista superior moderately well developed over ostium . 3 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith crenate; rostrum moderately long; ventral constriction in neck of sulcus indistinct; papilla-like groove at caudal tip absent or minute . . Sphyraena acutipinnis 224. 1 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly crenate; rostrum shorter; ventral constriction in neck of sulcus marked; small papilla-like groove at caudal tip moderately distinct . Sphyraena chrysotaenia 224.4 3a. Ostium wide; caudal tip flexed and close to posterior margin; ventral margin of ostium poorly defined, curved dorsally on rostrum; rostrum short and broad . Sphyraena flavicauda 224.5 3b. Ostium moderately wide; cauda straight or slightly flexed at tip; ventral margin of ostium moderately well defined, approximately horizontal; rostrum broad to elongate . 4 4a. Antirostrum elongate, curved ventrally and narrow; ostium with slit or groove under antirostrum; ventral margin of ostium approximately straight, reaches margin at or just under tip of rostrum . Sphyraena forsteri 224.6 4b. Antirostrum not elongate, ventrally curved and narrow; groove under antirostrum absent or very indistinct; ventral margin of ostium curved, meets margin dorsal to tip of rostrum . 5 5a. Ostium broad, elongate and deep; cauda slightly flexed at tip; antirostrum small and sharply rounded or pointed, has groove at margin . Sphyraena jello 224.7 5b. Ostium moderately elongate, flared dorsally; cauda straight, slightly waisted then flared at tip, not flexed; antirostrum very short . . . Sphyraena putnamiae 224.9 Sphyraena acutipinnis , SSF No. 224.1 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION : Indo-Pacific from Hawaii and French Polynesia to Japan, Philippines and northern Australia to South Africa as far south as Mossel Bay (34°S, 22°E). Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 4/95 (3.5-8.2 mm OD, 91-270 mm TL), PEM 7233 (RUSI 28456), 3594, 13444, 6700 (RUSI 28456), [6703 (RUSI 28456), 8853 & 8854 (both RUSI 37484)]; ORI and Cape south coast; Id. PCH, MJS, RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded or blunt and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum raised, indistinct posterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate, fairly narrow. Cauda: Straight, steep walled, very slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Very poorly developed above ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove may be present on large otoliths from ostium to caudal tip near mid-area. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sphyraena chrysotaenia, SSF No. 224.4 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout central and western Indo-Pacific; Natal and south to East London, 33°S. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (7.7, 9.0 mm OD, 260, 262 mmTL), PEM 12448, 12449; southeast Cape coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly crenate. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and approximately entire. Posterior margin: Rounded or blunt and slightly crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi slightly raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, narrow, dorsal wall poorly defined. Cauda: Approximately straight, tip slightly flexed and walls steep. Short papilla-like groove at tip of cauda. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1 : 1 .2, 1 : 1 . Collum: Absent, step present to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge-like from neck to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, wide, shallow groove from tip of cauda to tip of rostrum near margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sphyraena flavicauda, SSF No. 224.5 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout western and central Indo-Pacific, south to Durban. Attains 37 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.7 mm OD, 295 mm TL), PEM 14550 (RUSI 31426); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong, broad and squat. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: 182 Oblique, sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct, par¬ ticularly anterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, broad and oval, walls poorly defined. Cauda: Straight, flexed at tip, steep walls but posterior wall poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed above ostium and after flexion, ridge- like along cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove from tip of cauda to mid-ostium near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sphyraena forsteri , SSF No. 224.6 PLATE 112 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, extending south to Bazaruto, Mozambique (21°S, 36°E), not reported from South Africa. At¬ tains 65 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (9.26, 10.0 mm OD, 420, 442 mm TL), PEM 15774, 15773; Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or slightly peaked; sculpture, slightly crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Obliquely rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, col¬ liculi indistinct, particularly posterior. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Elongate, crista inferior approximately straight, reaches otolith margin just below rostral tip. Groove or slit under antirostrum. Cauda: Approximately straight, dorsal part of tip curved, ventrally flattened. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Ab¬ sent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like from neck along cauda, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Low ridge under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Elongate. Ventral depression: Shallow, from ostium to cauda in mid-area, where there may be a shallow groove. Rostrum: Elongate, tapered and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Elongate, narrow and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, unless joined by groove, angle acute. Sphyraena jello , SSF No. 224.7 PLATE 113 DISTRIB UTION: Appears to be restricted to western Indian Ocean. Common in Natal, penetrating as far south as Knysna (33°35’S). Attains 125 cm. MATERIAL: 3/7 (2.5-15.3 mm OD, c. 70-1900 mm TL), PEM 0081, 0402, 8142; Kosi Bay, Durban; Id. RvdE, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval (c. 2.5 mm OD) becoming oblong with growth. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular becoming more crenate with growth. Poste¬ rior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ante¬ rior and posterior colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, spear-shaped, irregular on rostral edge. Cauda: Approximately straight with steep walls, very slightly flexed dor¬ sal wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 8142 broken. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed over ostium and caudal tip, ridge-like from neck to flexion although ridge shorter in large specimens (c. 15 mm OD). Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, becoming very shallow in large specimens (c. 15 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent, two grooves, the one nearest margin becoming deep in large otoliths. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sphyraena putnamiae, SSF No. 224.9 PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-Pacific from French Polynesia and Philippines to Red Sea and Natal. Attains 87 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (8.7 mm OD, 253 mm TL), PEM 6652; ORI; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Lateral ventral margin rounded and thick. Dorsal margin: Slight¬ ly rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and sharply rounded, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared dorsally. Cauda: Straight, slightly waisted near tip, walls steep. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: c. 1:1 (tip broken). Collum: Absent, step present. Crista supe¬ rior: Moderately well developed over ostium and caudal tip, ridge-like from neck to ’waist’. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow groove from mid-ostium to tip in mid-area. Rostrum: Large, broad. Antirostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle acute. POLYNEMIDAE Nelson No. 357 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths oblong, approximately oval, or oblong to rectangular, up to at least 8 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Cauda straight with rounded, flexed, flared and deep tip. Heteromorph, colliculi low, may be distinct, anterior colliculum usually protrudes through excisura. Cristae well developed, but with ridge over most of cauda and sometimes over ostium. Key la. Otolith approximately oblong to rectangular; rostrum broad, squared and blunt; ventral margin flat . . Polydactylus sp. 223.- lb. Otolith approximately oval to oblong; rostrum short and blunt or rounded; ventral margin rounded or slightly rounded . 2 2a. Otolith approximately oval; caudal tip rounded with deep pit; posterior margin of otolith rounded or oblique; crista superior above ostium well developed to ridge- like . Polydactylus sextarius 223.3 2b. Otolith approximately oblong; caudal tip flexed and flared but without deep pit; otolith tapers slightly posteriorly; posterior margin of otolith blunt and notched; crista superior above ostium poorly developed . Polydactylus plebeius 223.2 Polydactylus plebeius, SSF No. 223.2 PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific from Red Sea to Knysna. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (3.9, 4.0 mm OD, 167, 180 mm TL), 1377H, 1378H; Fish River mouth; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, colliculum protrudes 183 through excisura. Cauda: Straight, flexed, deeper and broader at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed over ostium and after flexion, ridge¬ like along cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elon¬ gate, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Polydactylus sextarius, SSF No. 2233 PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, reaches Algoa Bay. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 7/10 (2.75-6.84 mm OD, 74-216 mm TL), PEM 15281 (RUSI 36871), 0134, 15279 & 15280 (both RUSI 36871), 6618 (RUSI 28494), 1691, 1690; Durban and TugelaBank, Natal; Id. MJS, PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or oblique, lobed and cre¬ nate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromorph, both colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, colliculum protrudes through excisura. Cauda: Straight in anterior, slightly flared in middle, deeper, flared and flexed at circular tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Mainly dor- sally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:2.1, 1:1.7, 1:1.6, 1:1.7, 1:1.7, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal de¬ pression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Slight depres¬ sion near caudal tip. May be shallow groove close to ventral margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Min¬ ute, sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Polydactylus sp., SSF No. 223. — PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Collected from Mauritius. Attains at least 357 mm TL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.8 mm OD, 357 mm TL), PEM 14531; Mau¬ ritius; Id. MJS. NOTE: Specimen lost, specific identification not presently possible but otoliths distinctly different from others described here. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong to rectangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Indented in centre. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximate¬ ly flat, crenate. Posterior margin: Tapered, slightly pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, ventral margin sinuous, dorsal wall of ostium undercuts dorsal area. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, deeper, flared and right-angled flexion at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Ridge-like to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Large, very broad and tip squared. Antirostrum: Large and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. LABRIDAE Nelson No. 358 Family characteristics: Otoliths usually small, up to c. 4 mm OD, but largest individuals of a few species to at least 12 mm OD. Otoliths oblong to fusiform, obovate, anvil-shaped and heterosul¬ coid. Openings ostial, ostio-pseudocaudal or ostio-caudal which often progress through that sequence intraspecifically with growth. This makes construction of a key particularly difficult although, with adequate material, the species should be distinguishable. Sulcus may be shallow or deep and cauda usually slightly flexed, flared and rounded if not yet open. Heteromorph, colliculi usually low or indented with raised margins but may be indistinct and difficult to see. Cristae usually well developed along the sulcus but usually ridge-like over neck. Key la. Otolith shape approximately discoid . 2 lb. Otolith shape oval, obovate, oval-ovate or approximately fusiform (not discoid) . 3 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; ventral margin rounded; ventral and posterior margins of otolith depressed; sulcus wide; colliculi depressed, ventral margin of colliculi may be raised . . Cymolutes praetextatus 220.24 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded and raised; ventral margin well rounded; ventral and posterior margins of otolith not depressed; sulcus narrow; colliculum depressed, margins may be raised . . Xyrichtys pavo 220.67 3a. Otolith approximately oblong to fusiform, tapering and pointed; sulcus deep; dorsal area narrow; dorsal depression usually distinct; colliculi usually distinct; dorsal margin of otolith flattened, emarginate or slightly rounded; antirostrum reduced or relatively narrow ... 4 3b. Otolith shape obovate or ovate; sulcus relatively shallow; dorsal area relatively wide; dorsal depression usually shallow; colliculi low, depressed or slightly raised; dorsal margin rounded or raised; antirostrum broad or reduced, rarely narrow . 8 4a. Ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded; colliculi depressed with raised margins; rostrum very short . 5 4b. Ventral margin of otolith approximately flat; colliculi low, no raised margins; rostrum elongate or broad and pointed . 6 5a. Ostium relatively narrow; dorsal area of otolith relatively broad; ventral area relatively narrow; ventral wall of cauda approximately straight; ventral area does not bulge intinto anterior cauda; ventral margin of caudal tip not distinctly bulbous ventrally . . Bodianus bilunulatus 220.7 5b. Ostium relatively broad, dorsal area of otolith relatively narrow; ventral area relatively broad, bulges up into anterior cauda; ventral wall of cauda flexed ventrally; ventral margin of caudal tip bulbous ventrally . . Bodianus perditio 220.10 6a. Rostrum broad and blunt; antirostrum short and broad; dorsal area of otolith wide; dorsal margin of otolith rounded; margins of otolith very irregular or digitate; dorsal depression absent . . . Cheilinus undulatus 220.16 6b. Rostrum and antirostrum similar sized; dorsal margin of otolith flattened or emarginate; margins of otolith irregular crenate or lobed; dorsal depression oval, elongate and shallow . 7 184 7a. Cauda deep, flared and ventrally flexed; dorsal area of otolith reduced with narrow, rugose depression; dorsal margin of otolith flat to emarginate; colliculi indistinct, excisura with deep notch . . Anchichoerops natalensis 220.4 7b. Cauda relatively shallow, gently flexed; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded or flat; anterior colliculum distinct, may penetrate excisura . . Cheilio inermis 220.17 8a. Rostrum and antirostrum approximately equal in length and width, both may be short and reduced or relatively long . 9 8b. Rostrum larger, longer and broader than antirostrum . 13 9a. Rostrum reduced and small; excisural notch shallow . 10 9b. Rostrum relatively large, or short and broad; excisural notch moderately deep . 12 10a. Posterior margin of otolith rounded; ventral and posterior margins very irregular to digitate; ventral area of otolith with three grooves; crista inferior broad under neck . Epibulus insidiator 220.26 10b. Posterior margin of otolith tapered and sharply rounded; ventral and posterior margins of otolith slightly irregular or crenate; ventral area may have single groove; crista inferior well developed . 11 11a. Dorsal margin of otolith raised and rounded; crista superior ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda; dorsal depression deep and elongate . . Bodianus diana 220.8 lib. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded or slightly raised anteriorly; crista superior has short ridge over neck, well developed elsewhere; dorsal depression shallow and short . Bodianus anthioides 220.5 12a. Rostrum and antirostrum broad; rostrum approximately equal in size to antirostrum but may be slightly broader; posterior margin of otolith tapers : Anampses caeruleopunctatus 220.1, Anampses meleagrides 220.3 12b. Rostrum slightly more elongate than antirostrum; posterior margin of otolith tapered but slightly rounded; dorsal area less raised . Anampses lineatus 220.2 13a. Rostrum and antirostrum of similar length; excisural notch deep or moderate . 14 13b. Rostrum considerably broader and/or longer than antirostrum; excisural notch usually shallow . 17 14a. Rostrum and antirostrum relatively elongate; excisural notch deep; ventral margin of otolith approxi¬ mately flat . 15 14b. Rostrum and antirostrum short; excisural notch relatively shallow (cf. 15); ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded . 16 15a. Cauda flared evenly; dorsal margin of otolith tapers posteriorly; dorsal area relatively narrower; dorsal depression elongate . . . Stethojulis albovittata 220.55 15b. Cauda paddle-shaped; dorsal margin of otolith slightly raised and rounded; dorsal area broad; dorsal depression small . Stethojulis strigiventer 220.57 16a. Otolith obovate; dorsal margin of otolith rounded; dorsal depression shallow; posterior margin tapered to rounded and slightly irregular . . Coris gaimard africana 220.23 16b. Otolith approximately obovate; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; dorsal depression relatively shallow; posterior margin of otolith notched and slightly irregular . Thalassoma trilobatum 220.65 16c. Otolith approximately obovate; dorsal margin of otolith rounded and irregular; dorsal depression elongate, distinct and deep; posterior margin of otolith sharply rounded and very irregular . . Cheilinus digrammus 220.13 17. Rostrum large and broad; antirostrum small, may be tapered; cauda and posterior margin of otolith vary widely. A group of species with considerable intraspecific variation: Coris aygula 220.20, C. caudimacula 220.21, Gomphosus caeruleus 220.27, Halichoeres cosmetus 220.28, H. hortulanus 220.30, Hemigymnus fasciatus 220.36, Hologymnosus doliatus 220.38, Labroides dimidiatus 220 A\, Pseudocheilinus hexataenia 220.48, Pteragogus flagellifer 220.52, P. pelycus 220.53, Stethojulis interrupta 220.56, Thalassoma amblycephalum 220.58, T. hebraicum 220.61, T. lunare 220.62, T. purpureum 220.63. Anampses caeruleopunctatus, SSF No. 220.1 PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific from Red Sea and South Africa to Easter Id; juveniles reach Algoa Bay. Attains at least 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (1.4-2.9 mm OD, 76-198 mm TL), PEM 2909, 6437, 5991; Sodwana Bay and environs; Id. GRA, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire becoming serrate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, serrate or crenate. Posterior margin: Pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep. Cauda: Nar¬ row, flaring and deep posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.3, 1:2.5, 1:3.4. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over collum. Crista inferior: Well developed, may be ridge-like under collum, very poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch rela¬ tively deep, angle wide. Anampses lineatus, SSF No. 220.2 PLATE 113 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indian Ocean, south to Natal. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.5, 2.0 mm OD, 77, 103 mm TL), PEM 14800 (RUSI 31369), 14799 (RUSI 31376); St Lucia Marine Reserve; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial may appear ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep, walls very steep. Cauda: Flared, deep, posterior walls poorly defined, close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 14799 broken. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, ridge-like over collum, very poorly de¬ veloped at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under collum, poorly developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderately large, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle wide. Anampses meleagrides, SSF No. 220.3 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Western Pacific to Red Sea and east Africa; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 22 cm. 185 MATERIAL: 3/3 (1. 6-2.4 mm OD, 84-135 mm TL), PEM 14801 (RUSI 31367), 14802 (RUSI 31375), 14803 (RUSI 31374); St Lucia Marine Reserve; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, becoming flattened, crenate or irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal (c. 1.6 mm OD) becoming ostio-caudal (c. 2.2 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colli¬ culi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, deep and walls poorly defined. Cauda: Narrow, deep, flaring posteri¬ orly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.0, 1:1.6, 1:2.8. Collum: Low. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, very poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Anchichoerops natalensis, SSF No. 220.4 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Natal and Transkei. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (2.85-8.3 mm OD, 8697 = 557 mm 1L, others not measured), PEM 2776, 2168, 8697; ORI, Tongaat, Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate be¬ coming thick (c. 8 mm OD). Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and oblique, lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, very deep, walls steep. Cauda: Hared, deep, rounded and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:2.1, 2776 broken. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped at neck, ridge-like at extremes. Dorsal depression: Slit-like above crista. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove in mid-ventral area. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Bodianus anthioides, SSF No. 220.5 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, Red Sea south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 21 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.1 mm OD, 114 mm TL), PEM 8830 (RUSI 37439); Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, het¬ erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, moderate deep and short. Cauda: Approximately straight, dorsal margin flared. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Osti¬ um/cauda: 1:2.3. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Very poorly developed over anterior ostium and posterior cauda, ridge¬ like over collum. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, very shallow and wide ventral groove in mid-ventral area. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Bodianus bUunulatus, SSF No. 220.7 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific but distribution not continuous, south to Durban, Natal. Attains at least 55 cm. MATERIAL: 4/15 (5.22-6.3 mm OD, 255,281mm TL, 6589 & 0029 not measured), PEM 0029, 6589 (RUSI 28457), 8542 (RUSI 37482), 8535 (RUSI 34154), [9599 (RUSI 37510)]; SodwanaBay, Kosi and ORI; Id. MJS, PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or raised; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal (<5 mm OD), becoming ostio-caudal (c. 5 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi with raised margins. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, deep with steep dorsal margin. Cauda: Deep, flared and rounded posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:2, 1:2, 1:2.1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium and collum or to caudal flare, usually well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent, may be ventral groove. Rostrum: Short becoming moderate, broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Bodianus diana, SSF No. 220.8 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Transkei. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 4/9 (3.8-4.7 mm OD, 157-185 mm TL), PEM 4403, 8785, 6687 (RUSI 28458), 8792 (RUSI 37427), [6688 (RUSI 28458), 15470 (RUSI 40595)]; Kosi, ORI and Ledsman Shoal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval to elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Slight ridge beneath ex¬ cisura. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Poste¬ rior margin: Tapering and sharply rounded to pointed and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio-pseudocaudal (c. 4.5 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, moderately deep and blunt. Cauda: Hared, rounded posteriorly with posterior margin indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:2.4, 1:2.3, 1:1.9. C- ollum: Indistinct and low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a wide, shallow groove in mid-area. Rostrum: Very short and sharply rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Bodianus perditio, SSF No. 220.10 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Anti-tropical in distribution, known from is¬ lands of southern Oceania, eastern Australia, Japan, Mauritius, Reunion, St Brandon Shoals, and northern Mozambique to Natal. Attains 80 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (6.2-8.7 mm OD, 373-513 mm TL), PEM 5959, 9609, 9624, 8364; ORI, Ledsman Shoal and Zululand; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong to elliptic. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Ridge under postero-ventral comer. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or serrate. Posterior margin: Tapering, 186 pointed, digitate and very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-cau- dal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi, mar¬ gins raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep and floor irregular. Cauda: Narrow, straight, flares posteriorly and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 1:2.1, 1:1.8, 1:2.3. Collum: Absent, slight rise in neck area. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a shallow groove. Rostrum: Very short and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Cheilinus digrammus, SSF No. 220.13 PLATE 114 DISTRIBUTION: Central Oceania to Red Sea and south to Natal. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (5.0, 5.18 mm OD, 234, 239 mm 1L), PEM 15696 (RUSI 42676), 1033H; Red Sea; Id. PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or very irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded, serrate or very irregular and digitate. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded, digitate or serrate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, deep and slightly flared. Cauda: Fairly elongate and flares posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.5. Collum: Narrow and low. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge-like over ostium, ridge-like over neck to mid-cauda, very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under anterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, groove may be present and area close to margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Large, moder¬ ately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Narrow, moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch deep, angle acute. Cheilinus undulatus, SSF No. 220.16 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Inhaca Is. Reported to attain 2.29 m and 190 kg. MATERIAL: 1/1 (12.1 mm OD, 1370 mm TL), PEM 8499; Europa Is.; Id. RvdE. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded, digitate and very irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Pointed, digitate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent Ostium: Flared, deep with steep walls. Cauda: Flared, very deep. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Low and indistinct. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, may be a groove below crista. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Cheilio inermis, SSF No. 220.17 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific from Easter Is. to Red Sea, south to Transkei. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 5/5 (2.65-5.64 mm OD, 170-430 mm TL), PEM 5069 (RUSI 13765), 15421 (RUSI 40581), 1220H, 15420 (RUSI 40581), 1047H; Red Sea, Kenya andBazaruto; Id. TH, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to approximately fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and crenate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Pointed, crenate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (<2.7 mm OD) becoming ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, with low but distinct colliculi. Pseudocollic¬ ulum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep and elongate. Cauda: Flared, deep with poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Low, present only in small otoliths (<5 mm OD). Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium and neck, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed or a low ridge under collum, moderately well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval, elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, narrow, deep groove near crista. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch deep, angle varies. Coris aygula, SSF No. 220.20 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Broadly distributed in the Indo-Pacific, south to Transkei. Attains at least 120 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (1. 8-4.3 mm OD, 113, 395 mm TL, 0048 not measured), PEM 0048, 8665 (RUSI 37452), 15566 (RUSI 42762); ORI and M’punda, Transkei; Id. PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal or ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, with steep dorsal wall. Cauda: Hared, moderately deep and elongate. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:2.8, 1:2.4. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, well developed over cauda, becoming ridge-like over cauda with growth. Crista infe¬ rior: Poorly developed becoming moderately well developed un¬ der sulcus (c. 2.2 mm OD). Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow, deepening with growth. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow grooves across ventral area. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Coris caudimacula , SSF No. 220.21 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean including Red Sea, south to East London. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1.6-2.5 mm OD, 73-148 mm TL), PEM 2910, 3913, 14798 (RUSI 31386), 4615; Ledsmans Shoal, off St Lucia and Sodwana; Id. PCH, GRA. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised, rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Flared, deep anteriorly, walls sinuous. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.3. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like over ostium and neck, moderately well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or sharply 187 rounded. Antirostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Coris gaimard africana, SSF No. 220.23 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: This subspecies occurs only in the Western Indian Ocean (to 30°S in South African waters). Attains at least 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.50, 1.51 mm OD, 66-82 mm TL), 0400H, 0401H; Kenya; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, het- erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed and slightly granular. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Flared, deep. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.3. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like over posterior ostium and neck, poorly de¬ veloped over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, moderately well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Cymolutes praetextatus , SSF No. 220.24 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; south to Natal. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 2/6 (2.75, 3.65 mm OD, 137, 160 mm TL), PEM 15417 & 15419 (both RUSI 40580), [15414-15416 & 15418 (all RUSI 40580)]; Bazaruto, Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Discoid becoming ovate. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Radiating, rounded ridges from nucleus. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique to flattened, blunt or sharply rounded. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ventral margin of indented colliculi raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, moderately elongate, slightly flared dorsally. Cauda: Short and deep, slightly flexed at rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, may be ridge-like at caudal tip. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent, area may be slightly columnar. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed from mid-area to posterior margin, ventral mar¬ gin below sulcus columnar. Rostrum: Short and rounded or tapering and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Epibulus insidiator, SSF No. 220.26 PLATE 115 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Delagoa Bay. Attains at least 35 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.0 mm OD, 270 mm TL), PEM 15386 (RUSI 40606); Madagascar; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: V-shaped notch under ostium, filled with colliculum, elongate groove along midline. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded and angled, tapering posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, very irregular to digitate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, tapered, irregular to digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, approxi¬ mately oval, narrows slightly to excisura. Cauda: Almost straight. deep posteriorly at rounded and flared tip. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.1. Collum: Low and elongate. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like from posterior ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium, broad ridge under neck, moderately well developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Elongate above neck. Ven¬ tral depression: Three depressions: A groove-like depression from rostrum to cauda in mid-area, one under crista under neck, and one depression under caudal tip to margin. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Gomphosus caeruleus, SSF No. 220.27 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean, south to southern Natal. Attains 28 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.35, 3.0 mm OD, 126, 155 mm TL), 1215H, PEM 0449; ORI and Eilat; Id. TH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal (c. 2.4 mm OD) becoming ostio-caudal (>c.3 mm OD), heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, with low colliculi. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Straight, flared, ventrally bulbous and moderately deep. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Long, oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad, pointed or rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Halichoeres cosmetus, SSF No. 220.28 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean to Aliwal Shoal south of Durban. Attains 1 1 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.0, 2.25 mm OD, 89, 1 14 mm TL), PEM 14233 (RUSI 30626), 15451 (RUSI 40557); Sodwana and Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised, rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short, flared and moderately deep. Cauda: Approximately straight, flared slightly and moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over sulcus, absent at posterior tip. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow, margin may be depressed. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow grooves in ventral area. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Very small and rounded. Excisura: Mod¬ erate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Halichoeres hortulanus, SSF No. 220.30 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1.9-3.4 mm OD, 81-217 mm TL), PEM 14804 (RUSI 31370), 4401, 14797 (RUSI 31389), 8784, [8431 (RUSI 188 34158)]; Kosi, St. Lucia Marine Reserve and Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, may be notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial (1.9 mm OD) becoming ostio-pseudocaudal (2.2 mm OD), then ostio-caudal (c. 3.4 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, short and moderately deep. Cauda: Flared, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.6, 1:1.3. Collum: Very low and very short. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, may be ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Hemigymnus fasciatus, SSF No. 220.36 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Inhaca Is. Reported to attain up to 80 cm, usually seen up to 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.75 mm OD, 370 mm TL), 1053H; Red Sea; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Obovate to anvil-shaped. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, raised, nodular colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, very deep with steep walls and mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Flared, very deep with steep walls. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow in mid-area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch deep, angle wide. Hologymnosus doliatus, SSF No. 220.38 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Central Pacific to east Africa, south to southern Natal. Attains at least 50 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (3.0-4.8 mm OD, 203-350 mm TL), PEM 6436, 2879, 5963, 14533; Mauritius, Sodwana, Zululand and Natal; Id. MJS, PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudo¬ caudal to ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moder¬ ately deep, may be very narrow along rostrum, dorsal wall under¬ cuts dorsal area. Cauda: Flares ventrally, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium and collum, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Well developed under neck and cauda, may be ridge under ostium. Dorsal depression: Elongate, narrow and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove under ostium. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide to wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Labroides dimidiatus, SSF No. 220.41 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; south to AlgoaBay. Attains 11.5 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (1.3-1.65 mm OD, 46-77 mm TL), PEM 8447 (RUSI 28498), 1 1317, 2808; Sodwana, Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and flared. Cauda: Straight and slightly flared, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.5, 1:1.2. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed or low ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under neck, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, wide, shallow groove present near margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Min¬ ute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Pseudocheilinus hexataenia , SSF No. 220.48 PLATE 116 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains c. 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.95, 2.9 mm OD, 58, 63 mm TL), PEM 15786, 14224 (RUSI 30587); Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH, lodged in JLBSII. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, depressed colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep, dorsal wall steep. Cauda: Approximately straight, with flaring channel to posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.4. Collum: Very low and mod¬ erately elongate. Crista superior: Low ridge over neck, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed under en¬ tire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Shallow crescent-shaped depression in mid-area. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Pteragogus flagellifer , SSF No. 220.52 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean (occurrence in Pacific uncertain); south to Natal. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.7 mm OD, 72 mm TL), PEM 15454 (RUSI 40571); Madagascar or Bazaruto Is.; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded, tapering posteriorly; sculpture, lobed. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded and flattened posteriorly, sinuate to irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, tapered and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, slightly depressed colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, moderately deep, flared ventrally. Cauda: Approximately oval, straight, moderately deep and flared posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to cauda, well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Well developed from ostium to cauda. Dorsal 189 depression: Moderately deep over neck and posterior ostium. Ventral depression: Broad, shallow and groove-like in mid-area. Rostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pteragogus pelycus, SSF No. 220.53 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean, south to Durban. At¬ tains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.45 mm OD, 98 mm TL), PEM 15455 (RUSI 40572); Madagascar or Bazaruto Is.; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded, tapering posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and flattened posteriorly, crenate. Posterior margin: Tapered and pointed to sharply round¬ ed, and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Heteromorph, small, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, mod¬ erately deep. Cauda: Approximately oval, straight, moderately deep and slightly flared posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. 4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to cauda, well developed near tip. Crista inferior: Well developed or a low, broad ridge from ostium to cauda. Dorsal depression: Moderately deep over neck. Ventral depression: Broad, shallow and groove-like in mid-area. Rostrum: Small, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small, narrow and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Stethojulis albovittata, SSF No. 220.55 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean, from Red Sea to Natal. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 2/7 ( 1 .7, 2.5 mm OD, 102, 1 1 3 mm TL), PEM 15428 & 15426 (both RUSI 40583), [15425, 15427 & 15429-15431 (all RUSI 40583)]; Bazaruto Is.; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal to ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indented and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared anteriorly. Cauda: Hared posteriorly and moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.5. Collum: Absent or low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like to cauda. Crista inferior: Broad ridge from ostium to cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and narrow. Ventral depression: Elongate and narrow, in mid-area. Rostrum: Moderately elongate, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Broad, tapering and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Stethojulis interrupta , SSF No. 220.56 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Western Pacific to east Africa, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 5/21 (0.9-1 .8 mm OD, 39-98 mm TL), PEM 10342, 10453, 10369, 10451, 10338; near Cape Recife, eastern Cape; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Flared, moderately deep, poorly devel¬ oped posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1.1, L1.5. Collum: Low. Crista superior: W ell developed over anterior ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Stethojulis strigiventer, SSF No. 220.57 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Central Pacific to east Africa, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.95 mm OD, 70 mm TL), PEM 4406; Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded to pointed, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, moderately deep and narrow. Cauda: Hared ventrally, paddle-shaped and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over collum. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Shallow, groove-like indentation in mid-area. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and broad, sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch deep, angle acute. Thalassoma amblycephalum , SSF No. 220.58 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Transkei coast. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.5 mm OD, 62 mm TL), PEM 14246 (RUSI 30615); Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed, indistinct. Pseu¬ docolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, shallow. Cauda: Straight dorsally, flared ventrally and moderately deep. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Narrow and low. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Thalassoma hebraicum, SSF No. 220.61 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean south to Algoa Bay. Attains at least 23 cm. MATERIAL: 5/10 (2.35-4.3 mm OD, 102-197 mm FL), PEM 4402, 5992, 8156 (RUSI 34142), 8213 (RUSI 34153), 5664, [8309 (RUSI 37426)]; Zululand, KosiBay and Ledsman Shoal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slighdy concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised, may be emarginate; sculpture, slightly 190 irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate. Poste¬ rior margin: Sharply rounded, notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal or ostio-caudal, heterosul- coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocol- liculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep, walls steep. Cauda: Straight, flared ventrally and bulbous, deep. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.3, 1:1.8. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, may be ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under sulcus, poorly developed at caudal tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate or moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Thalassoma lunare , SSF No. 220.62 PLATE 117 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 2/5 (2.55, 3.4 mm OD, 207 mm TL, 0011 not measured), PEM 0011, 8291 (RUSI 34149), [14769 (RUSI 31408), 15477 (RUSI 40592)]; Kosi Bay and PEO; Id. PCH, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- pseudocaudal (2.5 mm OD) becoming ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Very deep and flared. Cauda: Flared, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Low, narrow. Crista superior: Well developed over sulcus, may be ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed or ridge-like under collum, well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Thalassoma purpureum, SSF No. 220.63 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific; south to Algoa Bay. Attains 43 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1. 8-4.2 mm OD, 1 15-357 mm TL), PEM 0448, 8668 (RUSI 37456), 9603, 8811; Kosi Bay and ORI; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Obovate to oval (c. 2.5 mm OD) becoming anvil¬ shaped (c. 3.7 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded becomes notched and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal (<2.5 mm OD) becoming ostio-caudal (c. 3.7 nun OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colli¬ culi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared, dorsal walls steep. Cauda: Flared, deep, posterior margin erodes in large specimens (c. 3.5 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, may be ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, poorly developed at ex¬ tremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Excisura: Moderate to moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Thalassoma trilobatum, SSF No. 220.65 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south toTranskei. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.6 mm OD, 165 mm TL), PEM 0446; ORI; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately obovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral: flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and notched, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, both colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, deep dorsally. Cauda: Hared, deep anteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Narrow and moderately high. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, ridge-like over neck. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, moderately well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, narrow and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moder¬ ately deep, angle acute. Xyrichtys pavo, SSF No. 220.67 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, from northern Red Sea to Natal. Attains c. 35 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (2.3-3.7 mm OD, 101-173 mm TL), PEM 6477, 6478, 6476, 6475; off Durban; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed or crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, fused and depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, elongate, slightly flared and deep. Cauda: Short and rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium becoming low ridge over neck, well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: Very shallow, if present. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch moderately shallow, angle wide. SCARIDAE Nelson No. 360 Family characteristics: Ten species described but no key pro¬ vided because otoliths very similar and exhibit ontogenetic vari¬ ation. Otoliths generally oval to oblong, up to at least 7.5 mm OD. Homosulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Ostium usually slightly broader than cauda, usually separated by a low collum. Usually homomorph with either low colliculi or their margins may be raised. Crista superior ridge-like over neck, usually well devel¬ oped elsewhere but may be poorly developed at extremes. Otoliths somewhat similar to the Labridae. Calotomus spinidens, SSF No. 221.2 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Western Pacific to east Africa, south to Delagoa Bay. Attains 19 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (2.8-3.3 mm OD, 123-124 mm IL), PEM 15412 & 15436 (both RUSI 40578), 2774, 15411 (RUSI 40579); Baz- aruto Is. and Sodwana; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and serrate or dentate to irregular. Posterior margin: 191 Rounded, indented and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, extremely low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, anterior walls poorly defined, posteriorly walls steep. Cauda: Hares, same depth as ostium, walls poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like in neck, either moderately well or poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed at neck, poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or irregular. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Leptoscarus vaigiensis, SSF No. 221.3 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Easter Is. to east Africa, south to the Transkei. Attains at least 35 cm. MATERIAL: 2/4 (2.85, 3.45 mm OD, 109, 169 mm TL), PEM 15442 (RUSI 40560), 15423 (RUSI 40582); Madagascar or Baz- aruto Is.; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, slightly raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, slightly serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Tapering, sharply rounded to pointed and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, pos¬ terior colliculum low and slightly narrower than low anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, moder¬ ately deep. Cauda: Hared, moderately deep, narrower than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus, but may be poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep above crista. Ventral depression: Either absent or shallow de¬ pression below neck. Rostrum: Moderately elongate, pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varies. Hipposcarus harid , SSF No. 221.5 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean and Red Sea; south on east Afri¬ can coast to Bazaruto. Attains c. 75 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.08, 7.08 mm OD, 325, 424 mm TL), 1052H, PEM 15383 (RUSI 40599); Madagascar and Red Sea; Id. PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval becoming oblong. Thick¬ ness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Well rounded becoming flattened; sculpture, dentate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded and crenate to dentate. Posterior margin: Pointed or rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, both slightly raised. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared dorsally, walls steep. Cauda: Hared, ventral walls steep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.3. Collum: Low and rounded. Crista superior: Ridge-like in neck, poorly devel¬ oped elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Deep and approximately oval. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, may have very narrow groove. Ros¬ trum: Large, blunt or rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. Scarus cyanescens, SSF No. 221.8 PLATE 118 DISTRIBUTION: Rare, known only from Mauritius, Madagascar, Zanzibar and Natal to 30°S. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (6.2, 7.0 mm OD, 312, 364mmTL), PEM 15405 & 15404 (both RUSI 40603); Madagascar; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to approximately oblong. Thickness: Mod¬ erate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded to flat; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Tapered, pointed, may be notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, colliculi indented with raised margins. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, mainly dorsally, moderately deep. Cauda: Hared, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1 .2. Collum: Absent or very low. Crista superior: Poor or well developed at extremes, ridge¬ like from ostium to mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poor at extremes, otherwise well developed. Dorsal depression: Crescentic above the crista. Ventral depression: Absent, area may be slightly reticulate in upper third. Rostrum: Short, broad, rounded or blunt. Antirostrum: Very small, sharply rounded or absent. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow if present, angle wide. Scarus ghobban, SSF No. 221.11 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Wide ranging, occurring from the eastern Pa¬ cific to the Red Sea and south to Algoa Bay. Attains 74 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.5-5.2 mm OD, 210-c. 430 mm TL), PEM 15741 & 15740 (both RUSI 42706), 5922; Red Sea and ORI; Id. RvdE, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded or slightly rounded and lobed or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or pointed, notched and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, low, nodular colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, oval. Cauda: Hared and moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. 3, 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, elongate and deep. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded, may be notched. An¬ tirostrum: Minute or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Scarus niger, SSF No. 221.13 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.35, 7.36 mm OD, 157, 286 mm TL), 1019H, PEM 15382 (RUSI 40605); Madagascar and Eilat, Red Sea; Id. PCH, DF. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded becoming flat and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded becoming pointed (c. 7 mm OD) and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, approximately homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo¬ morph, colliculi becoming more distinct with growth. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Hares, walls steep in posterior. Cauda: Hares widely, opens to postero-dorsal margin, shallow posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.3. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, very poorly developed at extremes, becoming well developed with growth. Crista infe¬ rior: Well developed below neck, poor at anterior ostium and caudal tip, becomes well developed under entire sulcus with growth. Dorsal depression: Oval to elongate. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be short groove under neck. Rostrum: Broad 192 and blunt becoming moderate, narrower and blunt. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Scarus psittacus, SSF No. 221.14 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-pacific, south to Sodwana. Attains c. 24 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.6, 5.68 mm OD, 190, 255 mm TL), PEM 14558 (RUSI 31450), 15398 (RUSI 40590); Madagascar and Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed and slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, dentate and irregular to digitate. Posterior margin: Tapering, pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- caudal, approximately homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, low, approximately oval colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared, deep and oval, dorsal wall steep. Cauda: Slightly flared. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, well devel¬ oped at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus, may be poor under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, margin slopes sharply. Ros¬ trum: Broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Minute or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow or very shallow, angle wide. Scarus rubroviolaceus, SSF No. 221.15 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Pacific to Durban. Attains 66 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.94 mm OD, 473 mm TL), PEM 15485 (RUSI 40618); Sodwana Bay; Id. MJS, SAC, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately elliptic. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Radiating ridges from nucleus. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and ir¬ regular. Posterior margin: Tapered, pointed and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Approximately heteromorph, posterior colliculum narrower than anterior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares widely, ap¬ proximately oval, moderately deep. Cauda: Approximately ob¬ long, moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed at extremes, ridge-like from mid-ostium to cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along its length. Dorsal depression: Oblong, moderately deep. Ventral depression: Pit-like under neck, may have groove in mid-area between ostium and cauda. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short and pointed. Excisura: Mod¬ erate, notch shallow, angle wide. Scarus scaber, SSF No. 221.17 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Islands of western Indian Ocean and coast of East Africa, south to Natal. Attains 37 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.3 mm OD, 235 mm TL), PEM 14559 (RUSI 31430); Mauritius; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, serrate, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Ta¬ pered, pointed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, colliculi low. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, steep walls posteriorly. Cauda: Flared, deepens anteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge¬ like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed at posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed at neck, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Scarus sordidus, SSF No. 221.18 PLATE 119 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.64 mm OD, 275 mm TL), 0985H; Dahab, Sinai; Id. AB, TH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral slightly conc ave. Dorsal margin: Rounded and raised; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded, crenate and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct colli¬ culi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep, walls steep. Cauda: Flared and moderately deep. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like at neck, well developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Very well developed at neck, moderately well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Broad and bluntly rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. ZOARCIDAE Nelson No. 362 Family characteristics: Otoliths small (10 mm OD). Crista inferior: Well developed becoming low ridge along entire sulcus in larger otoliths. Dorsal depression: Area depressed and rugose. Ventral depression: Narrow below crista and there may be groove near margin and anterior tip may be depressed. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. PERCOPHIDAE Nelson No. 387 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths similar to Callionymidae. Otoliths approximately ovate with rounded and lobed dorsal margin, up to c. 6. 1 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium elongate, narrow and indented, cauda short, filled with colliculum and approximately straight with rounded tip. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum indented, posterior fills cauda. Key la. Rostrum broad with bluntly rounded tip; antirostrum minute; cauda straight, length moderate; caudal tip swollen and rounded . . Bembrops platyrhynchus 233.1 lb. Rostrum tapered, and sharply rounded to pointed; antirostrum broad and sharply rounded; cauda very short and rounded . Bembrops sp. 233.- Bembrops platyrhynchus, SSF No. 233.1 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: Off Natal and northern Indian Ocean. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.1 mm OD, 185 mm TL), PEM 13050 (RUSI 28459); Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, posterior colliculum fills cauda, anterior is indented and low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate with parallel walls and upturned rostral tip. Cauda: Short, straight with slightly swollen tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6. Collum: Ab¬ sent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like from neck along cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed below ostium, moderately well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep and oval above cauda. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, groove along ventral margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Bembrops sp., SSF No. 233.- PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: Collected from the west coast near Orange River mouth in 142m. Attains at least 129 mm. MATERIAL: 4/9 (2.2-2.4 mm OD, 1 14-129 mm TL), PEM 7772, 7765, 7771, 7773; Cape west coast; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and notched. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior colliculum, cauda filled with colliculum. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate, slightly flared ante¬ riorly, moderately deep. Cauda: Short, rounded and filled by colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.5, 1:0.4, 1:0.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, high curved ridge above cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed below ostium, ridge below cauda. Dorsal depression: Deep and most of area depressed. Ventral depression: Depressed near margin, shallow post-caudal trough at margin. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. 195 MUGILOIDIDAE Nelson No. 388 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths oblong- ovate to fusiform up to c. 6.3 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings but may be ostio-caudal in largest specimens of at least one species. Ostium slightly flared, cauda approximately straight, flared, slightly flexed and deeper at tip. Heteromorph, colliculi indented and indistinct. Key la. Otolith oblong-ovate; dorsal area moderately broad; dorsal depression slit-like; crista inferior ridge-like under ostium and caudal tip; caudal tip deep and flared . Parapercis punctulata 234.4 lb. Otolith oblong-ovate to fusiform; dorsal area narrow; dorsal depression oval over most of area; crista inferior poorly defined at caudal tip . 2 2a. Ostium moderately narrow; posterior margin of otolith elongate and tapered, may be pointed, sharply rounded or blunt; ventral area narrow; rostrum elongate . Parapercis maritzi 234.2 2b. Ostium moderately broad; posterior margin of otolith sharply rounded; ventral area moderately broad; rostrum moderate and sharply rounded . . Parapercis robinsoni 234.5 Parapercis maritzi , SSF No. 234.2 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: Occurs in Natal and Transkei. Attains c. 19 cm TL, 16 cm SL. MATERIAL: 6/10 (5.4-6.3 mm OD, 148-192 mm TL), PEM 14996 (SAM 32442), 14998 (BPBM 34911), 14999 (RUSI 37319), 14995 (RUSI 37319), 15001 (SAM 32442), 14994 (BPBM 34911), [14997 (RUSI 35610 - holotype, otolith dam¬ aged), 15000 & 15002 (both RUSI 37319)]; off Transkei; Id. MEA. NOTE: These form part of the type material, the otoliths of which are held in JLBSII and PEM (Anderson 1992). Otolith shape: Approximately fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and approximately en¬ tire. Posterior margin: Pointed or rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio-caudal (c. 6.3 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indented and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally, deeper than cauda, with steep dorsal wall. Cauda: Gently flexed, with steep walls, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like along ostium to mid-cauda, very poorly developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along sulcus length, very poor at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Deep, covering most of the narrow dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin along most of sulcus. Rostrum: Large to elongate and sharply rounded to pointed. Antirostrum: Small, may be broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Parapercis punctulata, SSF No. 234.4 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: Seychelles, Amiran tes, Mozambique, Mauri¬ tius and northern Natal. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.05 mm OD, 93 mm TL), PEM 4620; Ledsman Shoal; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong, ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, sinuate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct and depressed. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Approximately straight, deep, slightly flared and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Extremely low and nar¬ row. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to caudal tip, may be a break before tip where a groove from dorsal margin penetrates crista superior. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from ostium to caudal tip. Dorsal depression: Deep, elongate from ostium to mid-cauda, may be groove from margin penetrating crista. Ventral depres¬ sion: Narrow and groove-like from ostium to cauda, posterior depression behind caudal tip. Rostrum: Moderate, broad, tapering to bluntly rounded tip. Antirostrum: Broad, tapered and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Parapercis robinsoni, SSF No. 234.5 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: Persian Gulf, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 5/8 (4.77-5.96 mm OD, 217-221 mm TL, 0033 not measured), PEM 2564, 2042, 6581 (RUSI 34097), 2041, 0033; Natal, ORI; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, colliculi indented and indistinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and slightly flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Straight, flexed, flaring and deepening towards tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.7, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, covers most of narrow area. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from below rostrum to caudal tip near margin. Rostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch deep or shallow, angle wide. TRIPTERYGIIDAE Nelson No. 390 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths oblong to fusiform and small, up to c. 3 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Sulcus shallow with slightly flared ostium, cauda ap¬ proximately straight, may be slightly flexed at tip. Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Key la. Ostium dorsal margin slightly flared; cauda straight; dorsal depression absent; post-caudal trough may be present . Cremnochorites capensis 236.1 lb. Ostium narrow; caudal tip slightly flexed; dorsal depression shallow; post-caudal trough absent . . Helcogramma obtusirostre 236.8 Cremnochorites capensis, SSF No. 236.1 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to Port Alfred in 5-30 m. Attains 80 mm. MATERIAL: 5/38 (1. 5-2.9 mm OD, 35-73 mm TL), PEM 6055 & 6056 (both RUSI 17134), 5253, 5358, 6054 (RUSI 17134); Algoa Bay and Plettenberg Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin; Sharply rounded or pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior 196 and posterior rims raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared and shallow. Cauda: Approximately straight, shallow and short. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda in large otoliths (2.9 mm OD). Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well de¬ veloped or low ridge along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove and post- caudal trough present. Rostrum: Large, broad, tapered and pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch absent or very shal¬ low, angle wide. Helcogramma obtusirostre, SSF No. 236.8 PLATE 121 DISTRIBUTION: From Coffee Bay, Transkei to Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. Attains 45 mm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (1.05, 1.3 mm OD, 25, 36 mm TL), PEM 2919, 2684; Botla Point and Sodwana; Id. MMS, MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Poste¬ rior margin: Pointed or sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared slightly, deeper than cauda. Cauda: Approximately straight, shal¬ low, very slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 2684 bro¬ ken. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Poorly developed along length of sulcus, may be very low ridge over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, very shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Large, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. CLINIDAE Nelson No. 393 Family characteristics: Twenty two species described but no key provided because of large intraspecific ontogeneric variation and inadequate coverage of some of the larger sizes of some species. Otoliths oval or oblong -ovate, rarely the largest may be anvil¬ shaped. They are minute to small, up to 3.8 mm OD. Heterosul¬ coid with ostial or ostio-pseudocaudal openings, with the largest sometimes becoming ostio-caudal with growth. Usually hetero¬ morph, rarely homomorph, colliculi are indistinct and may be indented or pitted. Collum usually present, but often low. Blennioclinus brachycephalus, SSF No. 237.1 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: From Luderitz Bay, Melkbosch Beach (north¬ west coast of Cape Peninsula) to the Kei River; common east of Cape Point. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/45 (0.8- 1.5 mm OD, 50-97 mm TL), PEM 10393, 10299, 5510, 6024; AlgoaBay and vicinity; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to obovate (1.5 mm OD). Thickness: Mod¬ erate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocaudal be¬ coming ostial (c. 1.5 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, indented and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, walls steep and deeper posteriorly, sulcus deepens with growth. Cauda: Hared, flexed ventrally. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.2, 1:2.5, 1:2, 1:2. Collum: Low. Crista su¬ perior: Ridge-like at neck, well developed over ostium, either absent or poor at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed at neck and below cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval, deepening with growth. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Blennioclinus Stella, SSF No. 237.2 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: From Algoa Bay to north of Durban. Attains 50 mm. MATERIAL: 1/2 (0.75 mm OD, 45 mm TL), PEM 5509; Cape Recife; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial very slightly convex, - Lateral very slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Extremely low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, dorsal wall steep. Cauda: Hared and shallow. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Present, low. Crista superior: Poorly developed along sulcus, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Blennophis anguillaris, SSF No. 237.3 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION : Luderitz Bay to East London, more common on west coast. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.2 mm OD, 118 mm TL), PEM 9982; near Cape Recife; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex to flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared, elongate, poorly defined ventral wall. Cauda: Straight, tip flexed, poorly defined posteriorly . Ostio-caudal differentiation : S light ventral constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like above ostium, poorly developed or absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under anterior cauda, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval, shallow and elongate. Ventral depression: Very shallow in mid¬ area. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Blennophis striatus, SSF No. 237.4 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: From Saldanha Bay to East London. Attains 175 mm. MATERIAL: 5/9 (1.15-3.2 mm OD, 54-146 mm TL), PEM 5178 (RUSI 11948), 10071, 10072, 10758, 10759; between Cape Recife and Tsitsikamma on Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming flattened; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Approximately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded becoming pointed and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1.4. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed or 197 ridge-like from ostium to flexion, very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under neck, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be shallow groove close to margin in large otoliths (3.2 mm OD), area becomes papillate below neck. Rostrum: Large, broad becoming elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute or small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cirrhibarbis capensis, SSF No. 237.7 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: Rare west of Cape Point to Lamberts Bay. Common from False Bay to East London. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 5/95 (0.9-2.95 mm OD, 43-219 mm TL), PEM 10136, 10268, 10754, 10266, 2534; between Cape Recife and Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate becoming ovate (c. 3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial: flat, - Lateral: flat. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular, may become notched. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flat (c. 2.5 mm OD) and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded to pointed (c. 1 .9 mm OD) and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio-caudal (c. 2.5 mm OD), hetero- sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low nodular colliculi may be visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, becoming very deep with growth. Cauda: Flared and flexed, deepens pos¬ teriorly and closer to margin with growth. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.8, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:7. Collum: Present, becoming wider and more distinct with growth. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like from ostium to cauda, poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed or ridge-like under neck, well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Elongate and oval. Ventral depression: Absent, may be ventral groove, ventral area nodular in large otoliths (>2.5 mm OD). Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small or moderate, rounded or pointed. Excisura: Moderate becoming moderately wide, notch shallow becoming deeper and wide with growth. Climacoporus navalis, SSF No. 237.8 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: From Still Bay to north of Port St Johns, Tran- skei. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 4/40 (1.1 -1.4 mm OD, 46-70 mm TL), PEM 10462, 10461 , 10460, 9941 ; between Cape Recife and Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Angled slightly dorsally, walls parallel and moderately deep. Cauda: Short, slightly flexed, poorly defined posteriorly, tip far from posterior wall. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, LI. 2. Collum: Present, distinct and moderately high. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Low ridge below collum, poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area nodular in larger otoliths (>1.3 mm OD). Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Clinoporus biporosus, SSF No. 237.9 PLATE 122 DISTRIBUTION: SaldanhaBay to False Bay. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.70 mm OD, 41 mm TL), PEM 5357; Cape Recife; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homosul- coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, depressed colliculi. Pseudocol¬ liculum: Absent. Ostium: Deepens towards collum, poorly defined in anterior. Cauda: Approximately oval, deep towards collum, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Present, moderately narrow and low. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Clinus berrisfordi, SSF No. 237.12 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to Schoenmakerskop. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.9, 1.9 mm OD, 108, 96 mmTL), PEM 2293, 10906; Schoenmakerskop; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form:- Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph with low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared dorsally and ven¬ trally and moderately deep. Cauda: Flared, becomes shallower posteriorly, may open onto posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:1.7. Collum: Present and low. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and neck, poorly developed over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Ridge-like below neck, poorly developed at ex¬ tremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Margin depressed, area nodular. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Clinus cottoides, SSF No. 237.14 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION: Olifants River mouth on the west coast to the Kei River in the east. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/105 (1.23-2.4 mm OD, 48-105 mm TL), PEM 5533, 10472, 10471, 5295; between Algoa Bay and Schoenmak¬ erskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval becoming oval-ovate (c. 2.2 mm OD). Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded becoming slightly rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Slightly flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Slightly flexed, shallowing and poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.8, 1:1.9, 1:1.3. Collum: Present, low. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium over neck, poorly de¬ veloped or absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Low ridge below ostium and cauda, poorly developed or absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Narrow groove under crista, area may be nodular. Rostrum: Short, broad, pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and 198 pointed. Excisura: Moderate becoming moderately wide, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Clinus helenae, SSF No. 237.15 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION : Rare, from Boknes to the Bashee River. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.8 mm OD, 27 mm TL), PEM 14823; Schoen- makerskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, homosul- coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, colliculi indented. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, angled slightly dorsally, narrows anteriorly. Cauda: Oval, deep, poorly defined walls. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Slight ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Present, moderately high. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch absent. Clinus robustus, SSF No. 237.19 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION: From the Cape to East London. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4(2.3-3.8mmOD, 150-332 mm TL), PEM 10896, 0646, 10894; Cape Recife and Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS, M-L. Penrith. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate becoming anvil-shaped (c. 3 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex or flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and pointed or notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial becoming ostio- caudal with growth (c. 3 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, becoming very wide but reduced with growth, anterior margin erodes with growth. Cauda: Straight, with strong flex which undercuts ventral area, posterior margin of otolith becomes eroded with growth and meets sulcus. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.2. Collum: Present and narrow. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium to anterior cauda, poorly developed or absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, margin depressed. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or blunt, narrower and elongate with growth (c. 3.8 mm OD). Antiros¬ trum: Moderately broad, sharply rounded or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide becoming wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Clinus supercUiosus, SSF No. 237.22 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION: From 18°59’S on the west coast to the Kei R. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 5/1 05 ( 1 . 3- 3 .0 mm OD, 62- 1 85 mm TL), PEM 5285, 10102, 10098, 3880 (RUSI 1 1955), 5291 ; Algoa Bay and vicinity; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed, lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and flared. Cauda: Flared, flexed posteriorly, deep on ventral side, posterior wall poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.2, 1:1.5, 1:1.7, 1:1.6. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Low ridge at neck, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, covers most of area. Ventral depression: Narrow and shallow under crista, area uneven. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Clinus taurus, SSF No. 237.23 PLATE 123 DISTRIBUTION: Mowe Point (Namibia) to Port Alfred. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 4/16(1.6-3.0 mm OD, 60-130 mm TL), PEM 10023, 10017, 10021, 10014; Chelsea Point near Cape Recife; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed, oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct indented colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly angled dorsally, moderately deep and walls parallel. Cauda: Moderately deep, flexed and flared posteriorly with poorly defined tip. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Present, low. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to neck, poorly developed over cauda and tip. Crista inferior: Well developed below ostium, ridge-like below neck and anterior cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Clinus venustris, SSF No. 237.24 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From Luderitz Bay to Port Alfred. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 4/21 (1.5-2.0 mm OD, 75-96 mm TL), PEM 10303, 6047 (RUSI 17133), 9980, 6045 (RUSI 17133), [6046 & 6048 (both RUSI 17133)]; between Plettenberg Bay and Schoenmaker¬ skop; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded becoming flattened (c. 2 mm OD); sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Pointed, oblique and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-pseudocau- dal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Angled slightly dorsally, flared, narrowing towards excisura. Cauda: Straight, flexed and flared near tip, deeper towards collum, posterior tip poorly defined . Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.4. Collum: Low and broad. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge-like from ostium to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed or ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Elongate, oval and shallow, covering most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, area may be papillose. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch absent or very shallow, angle wide. Fucomimus mus, SSF No. 237.26 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From False Bay to Coffee Bay (32°S). Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 3/13 (0.8-0.95 mm OD, 72-87 mm TL), PEM 5506, 5505, 5507; Cape Recife; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal 199 margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and entire. Posterior margin: Pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal or ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderate, narrow, walls parallel. Cauda: Approximately straight ventrally, flared dorsally, pit-like near collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation:: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Present, low. Crista superior: Well developed or low ridge above ostium, poor elsewhere. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, may be a shallow groove in mid-area. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Muraenoclinus dorsalis, SSF No. 237.27 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From Luderitz Bay to southern Natal. Attains 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (0.6, 0.75 mm OD, 38, 41 mm TL), PEM 2563, 5321; Chelsea Point near Cape Recife; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex to flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Colliculi not visible. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval with narrow excisura. Cauda: Slightly flexed, deeper at collum, poorly defined posteri¬ orly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.8. Collum: Narrow. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Pavoclinus graminis, SSF No. 237.28 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From False Bay to Inhambane. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 4/46 (1 .1-1.6 mm OD, 73-120 mm TL), PEM 5495, 9963, 10740, 10745; between Cape Recife and Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex to flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded to slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial to ostio-pseudocaudal (c. 1 .6 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromoiph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, slightly flexed ven¬ tral wall, deep towards collum. Cauda: Moderately deep, steep walls anteriorly, posterior wall poorly defined. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.1. Collum: Narrow and low. Cristasupe- rior: Well developed or ridge-like over ostium and cauda, very poorly developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Well developed or ridge-like under neck, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow (if present), angle wide. Pavoclinus laurentii , SSF No. 237.30 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: Port Alfred to Inhambane. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 1/3 (0.7 mm OD, 41 mm TL), PEM 4106; Tsitsi- kamma; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Angled dorsally, flares and narrows to excisura, moderately deep. Cauda: Approximately oval and flexed, mod¬ erately deep, posterior wall poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Moderate and narrow. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poorly developed over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, low ridge under neck, very poorly developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Narrow, notch extremely shallow, angle wide. Pavoclinus mentalis, SSF No. 237.32 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From Algoa Bay to St Lucia. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.9mmOD,275mmTL),PEM0367;Transkei; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Anvil-shaped (c. 1.9 mm OD). Thickness: Mod¬ erate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and emarginate, slightly irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Pointed, emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, reduced and flared. Cauda: Deep and flared, posterior margin eroded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral con¬ striction. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Waisted, high and prominent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and irregular, dorsal area columnar. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, elongate groove under crista, area columnar. Rostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Pavoclinus pavo, SSF No. 237.34 PLATE 124 DISTRIBUTION: From Luderitz Bay to the Kei River (Transkei). Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/25 (0.7-1. 1 mm OD, 44-68 mm TL), PEM 6050 (RUSI 17129), 9897, 10316, 9894, [6049 (RUSI 17129)]; between Cape Recife and Plettenberg Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Pos¬ terior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep, slightly flared with steep dorsal walls. Cauda: Moderately deep, slightly flexed, poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:0.7. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, very poorly developed to absent over cauda. Crista infe¬ rior: Low ridge under collum, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, may be shallow groove in mid-area. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or short and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Pavoclinus profundus, SSF No. 23735 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Off Knysna to Algoa Bay. Attains 5 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (0.6- 1.1 mm OD, 48-96 mm TL), PEM 6026, 5358, 6025; Chelsea Point and Cape Recife; Id. MJS, PCH. 200 Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or rounded and entire. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial or ostio-pseudocaudal (c. 1 . 1 mm OD), heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Flared and narrows to excisura. Cauda: Straight, flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.1, 1:1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poorly developed over cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, becoming well developed below neck, poor at extremes. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch shallow (if present), angle wide. Xenopoclinus leprosus, SSF No. 237.38 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: From Orange River mouth to Algoa Bay. At¬ tains 8 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (0.95, 1.1 mm OD, 58, 60 mm TL), PEM 5359, 5225; Cape Recife and Algoa Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, colliculi indistinct, pitted. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate with parallel sides and a pit near collum. Cauda: Short, deep and pitted. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Present, distinct. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove across posterior tip of otolith. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow (if present), angle wide. BLENNIIDAE Nelson No. 395 Family characteristics: Fourteen species described. Otoliths small (up to c. 2.5 mm OD) and oval or oval-ovate, rarely discoid, heterosulcoid, usually with ostial openings but rarely ostio-caudal or ostio-pseudocaudal. Ostium usually flared, cauda usually short, slightly flexed and flared. Heteromorph, colliculi usually low, reduced or pit-like. Key la. Otolith discoid; rostrum and antirostrum similar sized; colliculum fused, indented in centre with raised edges . Plagiotremus tapeinosoma 235.38 lb. Otolith oval or oblong-ovate; rostrum larger than antirostrum; colliculum indented and indistinct .... 2 2a. Ostium bulbous and drooping ventrally . Parablennius comutus 235.31 and P. pilicomis 235.33 2b. Ostium flared or slightly flared . 3 3a. Cauda narrow and deep (oval or slit-like); dorsal margin of otolith well rounded . Xiphasia setifer 235 .42 3b. Cauda flexed and/or flared; dorsal margin rounded, raised or slightly rounded . 4 4a. Cauda straight then flexed; ventral area of otolith usually with groove or depressed margin; caudal tip almost reaches margin . 5 4b. Cauda flared and flexed; ventral margin of otolith usually not depressed nor grooved; caudal tip not reaching margin . 6 5a. Crista superior ridge-like and straight; cauda broad; sulcus opening ostio-caudal, caudal tip joins ventral groove . Antennablennius australis 235.2 5b. Crista superior slightly curved; cauda moderately narrow and flexed, ends close to ventral margin . Pereulixia kosiensis 235.34, Istiblennius edentulus 235.18 6a. Rostrum tapered and pointed . . Omobranchus banditus 235 .25 6b. Rostrum broad and angled, rounded or sharply rounded: Chalaroderma ocellata 235.7, Cirripectes castaneus 235.9, Ecsenius midas 235.10, Exallias brevis 235.14, Istiblennius dussumieri 235.17, Omobranchus woodi 235.30, Scartella emarginata 235.40. Antennablennius australis, SSF No. 235.2 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: From Port Elizabeth to the Red Sea. Attains 7 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.0 mm OD, 53 mm TL), 0785H; Botla Point; Id. MMS. Otolith shape: Oval -ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Flared, steep dorsal wall. Cauda: Straight becom¬ ing strongly flexed and deeper, joining ventral groove and opening onto ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly con¬ stricted ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to mid-cauda, moderately well developed over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed below ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, covering most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, groove from ostium to caudal tip. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Anti- rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Chalaroderma ocellata, SSF No. 235.7 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Saldanha Bay to Port Eliza¬ beth. Attains 7 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1.0-1.8 mm OD, 41-88 mm TL), PEM 5644, 5363, 5275, 6044; between Plettenberg Bay and Cape Recife; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape; Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely indistinct and indented. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deeper than cauda, dorsally angled anteriorly. Cauda: Deeper towards collum, with slightly flexed pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poorly developed to absent elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed below col¬ lum, very poorly developed or absent elsewhere. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short becoming moderate (c. 1.8 mm OD), broad and rounded. Anti- 201 rostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Cirripectes castaneus, SSF No. 235.9 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-West Pacific; ex¬ tends south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 9.5 cm SL. MATERIAL: 212 (1.1, 1.2 mm OD, 53, 70 mm TL), 048 1H, 0480H; Brighton Beach, Durban; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Walls parallel and deeper towards collum. Cauda: Slightly flexed and deeper at collum, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and neck, very poorly developed to absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed below collum, very poorly de¬ veloped elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Ecsenius midas, SSF No. 235.10 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and east Africa to Marquesas Is.; known only from Sodwana in this area. Attains 10 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.55 mm OD, 89 mm TL), 0759H; Sodwana; Id. JER. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deep and dorsal rostral edge raised. Cauda: Flared dorsally and ventrally, deeper at collum, poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Low ridge over ostium and collum, very poor to absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed under ostium and collum, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and shaiply rounded. Antirostrum: Very short, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Exatlias brevis , SSF No. 235.14 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea to central Pacific; south to Sodwana Bay. Attains 12 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.65, 2.05 mm OD, 64, 95 mm TL), PEM 15655, 15654; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: -Mesial convex, -Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, slightly raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded to flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, may be notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared dorsally, colliculum indented in centre. Cauda: Curved along its length, poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Dorsally and slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.5. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed over entire sulcus, absent at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow groove in mid-area under sulcus. Rostrum: Broad, angled and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Istiblennius dussumieri, SSF No. 235.17 PLATE 125 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-Pacific, south to Bashee River mouth, Transkei. Attains 10 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/3 (1.3 mm OD, 0479H lost, 90, 107 mm TL), 0479H, 0478H; Brighton Beach; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed or rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Colliculi not visible. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, ventral wall irregular and poorly defined. Cauda: Flexed ventrally, has steep ventral wall, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and neck, very poor or absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Low ridge from ostium along cauda, absent at tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Oval and shallow under cauda near margin. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Istiblennius edentulus, SSF No. 235.18 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-Pacific, south to East London. Attains 13 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.8 mm OD, 125 mm TL), 0639H; Brighton Beach; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep, ventral margin irregular. Cauda: Flared and flexed posteriorly, ventral wall steep. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium and collum, very poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Omobranchus band it us, SSF No. 235.25 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Bazaruto to Transkei, juveniles to Port Alfred, ?Mauritius. Attains 6 cm SL. MATERIAL: 1/2 (0.8 mm OD, 75 mm TL), 0237H; Swartkops Drift; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very indis¬ tinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, deep in centre. Cauda: Flexed slightly and poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well 202 developed over ostium, absent elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed at neck, very poor to absent elsewhere. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Omobranchus woodi, SSF No. 235.30 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from East London to Knysna. Attains 8 cm SL. MATERIAL: 2/3 (0.75, 1.05, mm OD, 57, 75 mm TL), PEM 1882 (RUSI 9028), 1885 (RUSI 9029); locality unknown; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Well rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or pointed and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli- culum: Heteromorph, low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, slightly flared. Cauda: Slightly flexed and poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium, absent elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed below neck, very poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent. Ventral depression: Absent, groove or depressed margin may be present. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Parablennius cornutus, SSF No. 23531 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Northern Namibia to SodwanaBay. Attains 15 cm SL. MATERIAL: 4/19 (1.5-1. 9 mm OD, 47-90 mm TL), PEM 9998, 10295, 9996, 9999; Chelsea Point and near Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col- liculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Bulbous ventrally, narrows to excisura. Cauda: Hexed ventrally, with oval colliculum and poorly defined posterior wall. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and collum, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under posterior ostium and collum, absent at extremes. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent but margin may be depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Parablennius pilicornis, SSF No. 23533 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Western Mediterranean, Angola, South Africa from Knysna to Sodwana Bay, Brazil and Patagonia. Attains 12 cm SL. MATERIAL: 5/7 (0.9-1.85 mm OD, 35-104 mm TL), PEM 5276 (RUSI 13846), 1 106, 1 105, 1 104, 1 103; off Durban and Bell Buoy, Algoa Bay; Id. IE, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi slightly raised. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Bulbous ventrally, with steep dorsal wall, opens widely. Cauda: Hexed posteriorly, deeper at collum, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium and collum, absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed under collum, very poorly developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a groove near mar¬ gin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or very small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch veiy shallow, angle wide. Pereulixia kosiensis , SSF No. 23534 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Durban north to Pakistan. Attains 20 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/5 (1.45-2.5 mm OD, 65-127 mm TL), 0924H, PEM 2681, 0791H; Botla Point and Cape Vidal; Id. MMS, TH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat or slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Sharply rounded or blunt and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, becoming ostio-pseudocaudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, deeper at collum with steep dorsal wall. Cauda: Elongate, straight then flexed gently, ending close to ventral margin, poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed posteriorly. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under neck and cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, may be a groove close to margin. Ros¬ trum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Plagiotremus tapeinosoma, SSF No. 23538 PLATE 126 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed in Indo-Pacific, south to False Bay, Cape. Attains 12 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/5 (0.55-0.95 mm OD, 48- 105 mm TL), PEM 2621, 0704H, 0460H; Durban, Sodwana and Bird Rock; Id. TH, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, fused anterior and posterior colliculi, more pronounced with growth, indented along length. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, flared, deep in centre and colliculum raised around margin. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed posteriorly, deep in centre with colliculum around edge. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight dorsal constric¬ tion. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Low in small otoliths (<0.85 mm OD). Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium and neck, poorly developed posteriorly. Crista inferior: Well developed under neck, very poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Groove-like above crista. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded, similar to rostrum. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Scartella emarginata, SSF No. 235.40 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION: Southern Angola to India. Attains 10 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/6 (0.95-1.38 mm OD, 55-71 mm TL), PEM 1102, 1098, 1101; off Durban; Id. IE. 203 Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slighdy irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply round¬ ed and slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior colliculum, reduced posterior colliculum on ventral wall. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, moderately deep. Cauda: Flexed, deep atcollum and poorly developed posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.7. Collum: Low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, poorly developed or absent over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed below collum, poorly developed elsewhere. Dor¬ sal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Xiphasia setifer, SSF No. 235.42 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indian Ocean to Japan and New Hebrides; south to False Bay. Attains 53 cm SL. MATERIAL: 3/3 (0.55-1 .0 mm OD, 255-455 mm TL), PEM 8294, 0475 (RUSI 04413), 14655; Cape west coast, Schoenmakerskop and Ledsman Shoal; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indented colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, deeper towards col¬ lum. Cauda: Narrow, deep and poorly developed posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:1.3, 1:1.3. Collum: Distinct, narrow. Crista superior: Absent along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, poorly developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or very short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. AMMODYTIDAE Nelson No. 398 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths oblong- ovate, to at least 1.6 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, shallow straight sulcus, with ostial opening. Heteromorph with indistinct colliculi. Gymnammodytes capensis, SSF No. 238.2 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION : Angola to Delagoa Bay, common on Cape south coast. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 1/2 (1.55 mm OD, 67 mm TL), PEM 0197; M’Bashee mouth; Id. MMS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slighdy rounded; sculpture, slighdy irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slighdy rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Blunt, oblique and slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, shallow, slightly flared and margins poorly defined. Cauda: Poorly defined, elon¬ gate, very shallow, straight and narrow. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to mid-cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed or absent along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. CALLIONYMIDAE Nelson No. 399 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths similar to Bembrops spp. (Percophidae). Otoliths moderately small, up to at least 5 mm OD. Rounded-triangular, heterosulcoid with ostial opening. Ostium elongate and narrow, cauda short and oval, filled with colliculum. Heteromorph colliculi, anterior indistinct, poste¬ rior usually fills cauda. Key la. Otoliths elongate, rounded-triangular; rostrum very short and tapered . Callionymus filamentosus 239.1 lb. Otolith approximately rounded-ovate to triangular, rostrum tapered but longer than C. filamentosus .... 2 2a. Postero-ventral comer of otolith sharply rounded; crista superior well developed over anterior ostium, ridge-like over mid-ostium to caudal tip . . Paracallionymus costatus 239.6 2b. Postero-ventral comer of otolith oblique and pointed; crista superior ridge-like from ostium to cauda . . Synchiropus monacanthus 239.8 Callionymus filamentosus , SSF No. 239.1 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION: Delagoa Bay northwards to Red Sea and Indo- West Pacific. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.0 mm OD, 91 mm TL), PEM 15443 (RUSI 40561); Madagascar or possibly Bazaruto; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elongate, rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moder¬ ate. Form: - Mesial slighdy convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slighdy irregular. Ventral margin: Flat, slighdy irregular. Posterior margin: Tapered, sharply rounded and slighdy irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct anterior, pos¬ terior fills cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, narrow, slightly flared anteriorly. Cauda: Short, rounded and filled with colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.3. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Moderately well developed along ostium, ridge-like over cauda. Crista inferior: Moderately well devel¬ oped along entire length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval, above cauda. Ventral depression: Absent, groove close to margin and posterior groove behind cauda to margin. Rostrum: Very short, tapered, pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Ex¬ cisura; Moderate, notch extremely shallow, angle wide. Paracallionymus costatus, SSF No. 239.6 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION: Endemic to southern Africa between Luderitz Bay and Inhaca Is. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 6/56 (1.5-3.05 mm OD, 34- 150 mm SL), PEM 7236, 3190 (RUSI 12175), 7341, 12547 (RUSI 28463), 14142 (RUSI 28463), 12131; off Cape coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rounded-ovate to triangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slighdy convex, - Lateral slighdy convex. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly; sculpture, lobed. Ventral margin: Slighdy rounded and slighdy irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior colliculum, cauda filled with posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, deep, slighdy flared anteriorly. Cauda: Short, rounded, filled with colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slighdy dorso-ventrally constrict¬ ed. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.4, 1:0.4, 1:0.3, 1:0.6, 1:0.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, ridge- like over posterior ostium and cauda. Crista inferior: Mod- 204 erately well developed. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, un¬ dercuts crista superior. Ventral depression: Absent, groove near margin from ostium to cauda. Rostrum: Moderate, pointed and may be upturned at tip. Antirostrum: Short or moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Synchiropus monacanthus , SSF No. 239.8 PLATE 127 DISTRIBUTION: Port Alfred northwards to Zanzibar. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (3. 2-5.0 mm OD, 109-185 mm TL), PEM 13038 (RUSI 28462), 12914 (RUSI 28462), 13004 (RUSI 28462), 13063; Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately triangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Raised; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Very slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Pointed, oblique, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior indistinct, pos¬ terior colliculum may fill cauda. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate, undercuts dorsal area anteriorly. Cauda: Short and rounded, may be filled with colliculum. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Very slight dorso-ventral constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.3, 1:0.3, 1:0.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, anterior low, distinct posteriorly. Crista inferior: Poor or absent under anterior ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Large and deep, covers most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Elongate, joined by ventral groove. Rostrum: Elongate, narrow and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded or rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. ELEOTRIDIDAE Nelson No. 402 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths similar to Gobiidae. Approximately rhomboidal to square, up to at least 4.8 mm OD. Archaesulcoid with mesial opening. Homomorph with low colliculum. Eleotris fusca, SSF No. 241.4 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Coffee Bay, Transkei. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (3.9,4.75 mm OD, 153, 200mmTL), PEM 0303 (RUSI 04337), 15486 (RUSI 40625); Pumula, Natal and Swartkops; Id. MJS, GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately rhomboidal to square. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, serrate and irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Rat or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single, undif¬ ferentiated colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, approximately oblong. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Very low ridge in mid-sulcus, very poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, slightly indented under posterior sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval. Ventral depression: Absent, elongate and wide, shallow groove close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. GOBIIDAE Nelson No. 403 Family characteristics: Sixteen species described. Otolith shape varies; square, rhomboidal, tall or rectangular, up to c. 6 mm OD. Characteristic of this family is the indented sulcus which appears stamped with footprint or oblong shaped depression. Sulcus het¬ erosulcoid or archaesulcoid with mesial opening. Ostium usually arrowhead shaped but may be slightly bifid and lobed, cauda usually oblong with rounded or blunt tip. Homomorph or hetero¬ morph, may be fused colliculi. Colliculi may be difficult to distinguish. Pseudocolliculum present, usually ventrally in neck area. Cristae usually well developed, superior may be a low ridge. Dorsal depression present, shallow and large. Ventral area may have one or two depressions, separated by a low ridge. Otoliths similar to Eleotridae. Key la. Sulcus archaesulcoid and oval shaped; cristae developed as low ridges . Priolepis cincta 240.84 lb. Sulcus footprint shaped, may be slightly bifid; cristae usually poorly or well developed . 2 2a. Otoliths tall (rectangular or oval) . 3 2b. Otolith not tall (rectangular, square or rhomboidal shaped) . 5 3a. Dorsal depression oval to circular and distinct; two ventral depressions present, separated by low crescentic ridge .... Oxyurichthys papuensis 240.71 3b. Dorsal depression shallow, elongate and oval; double ventral depression absent . 4 4a. Ostium slightly bifid; dorsal margin of otolith crenate; pseudocolliculum present dorsally in neck . . Gobiodon citrinus 240.47 4b. Ostium oval with narrow papilla; dorsal margin of otolith rounded and slightly irregular; pseudocolliculum elongate under cauda . Nemateleotris magnified 240.64 5a. Otolith approximately rhomboidal; postero-dorsal and antero-ventral corners pointed and protruding; dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat . 6 5b. Otolith not distinctly rhomboidal; postero-dorsal and antero-ventral comers not protruding but may be lobed and distinct; dorsal margin of otolith may be raised . 7 6a. Sulcus short and broad; ostium with bifid lobes . . Caffrogobius multifasciatus 240.21 6b. Sulcus more elongate, footprint-shaped; ostium slightly bifid: Caffrogobius agulhensis 240.19, C. caffer 240.20, C. nudiceps 240.23, C. saldanha 240.24 7a. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith not lobed . 8 7b. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith lobed . 9 8a. Otolith rectangular; dorsal depression distinct, large and moderately deep; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; sulcus more elongate and angled antero- ventrally . Glossogobius callidus 240.43 8b. Otolith shape varies - rounded square; dorsal depression very shallow, covers most of area; dorsal margin of otolith raised or rounded, lobed or irregular; sulcus short, broad and horizontal . . Sufflogobius bibarbatus 240.97 9a. Otolith rectangular to wedge shaped with dorsal margin of otolith oblique; posterior margin of cauda poorly defined . Istigobius omatus 240.57 9b. Otolith approximately square, rounded rectangular, pentagonal or rounded square; posterior margin of cauda rounded or blunt . 10 10a. Sulcus dumbbell shaped with bulging anterior and posterior tips . Istigobius decoratus 240.56 10b. Sulcus footprint shaped or arrow-like . 11 11a. Posterior margin of cauda rectangular and blunt; ostium arrowhead shaped; dorsal margin of otolith crenate; posterior margin notched . . Parachaeturichthys potynema 240.73 205 lib. Posterior margin of cauda rounded; ostium slightly bifid or arrowhead shaped, dorsal margin serrate or lobed; posterior margin indented or emarginate .... 12 12a. Sulcus angled antero-ventrahy; cauda moderately elongate; dorsal margin of otolith lobed . . Psammogobius knysnaensis 240.87 12b. Sulcus horizontal; cauda short, bulging slightly at tip; dorsal margin of otolith serrate . . Yongeichthys nebulosus 240.107 Caffrogobius agulhensis, SSF No. 240.19 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: East London to False Bay. Attains 7.5 cm. MATERIAL; 4/6 (1.1 -2.2 mm OD, 30-68 mm TL), PEM 4690, 4691, 6063, 6061; Cape south coast; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately square, becoming more rectangular (>1.7mmOD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, or flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded; sculpture, shghtly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and shghtly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and protruding dorsally. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- morph, fused and indented colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Pre¬ sent in the neck. Ostium: Broad and oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Narrow and oval giving sulcus a footprint shape. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.4, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in neck and caudal region, poorly de¬ veloped at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, ventral area raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent-shape groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Caffrogobius coffer, SSF No. 240.20 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to False Bay. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 2/7 (2.4, 2.7 mm OD, 75, 86 mm TL), PEM 5331, 5294; Algoa Bay and near Cape Recife; Id. LEB, MIS. Otolith shape: Rhomboidal. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Shghtly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched centrally and protrud¬ ing postero-dorsahy, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low, depressed colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Approximately oval giving sulcus a footprint shape. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Shghtly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Ab¬ sent. Excisura: Absent. Caffrogobius multifasciatus, SSF No. 240.21 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: Mozambique to Table Bay. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 4/5 (1.5-4.65 mm OD, 40-126 mm TL), 1418H, 1417H, 1416H, PEM 1478; Swartvlei estuary, Fish River estuary; Id. HMK, OG. Otolith shape: Approximately square. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial shghtly convex or flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded; sculpture, shghtly irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and pointed, protruding postero-dorsal comer. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused and very shghtly raised. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Bifid and flared. Cauda: Approximately oval giving a footprint shape to sulcus. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Shghtly dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1478 eroded. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in neck region, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval, shahow and large. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shahow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Caffrogobius nudiceps, SSF No. 240.23 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: East London to Cape and north to Walvis Bay. Attains 14 cm. MATERIAL: 4/30 (1.4-4.15 mm OD, 36-95 mm TL, 0073 not measured), PEM 4043, 4050, 4062, 0073; Swartkops and near Cape Recife; Id. GJBR, MIS, LEB. Otolith shape: Approximately square. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral shghtly convex. Dorsal margin: Shghtly flat or rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular or irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and shghtly irregular or irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and protruding postero-dorsahy. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused very low, indented colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Rared and bifid. Cauda: Approximately round giving a footprint shape. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Shghtly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2, 1:1.3, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Weh developed in neck region, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Weh developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval, shahow and large. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shahow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin, less distinct in large otoliths (c. 4 mm OD). Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Caffrogobius saldanha, SSF No. 240.24 PLATE 128 DISTRIBUTION: Saldanha Bay to southern Transkei. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 3/17 (2.2-34 mm OD, 75-87 mm TL), PEM 10468, 10005, 10004; Chelsea Point to Schoenmakerskop; Id. MJS, D.F. Hoese. Otolith shape: Approximately square. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded; sculpture, shghtly irregular. Ventral margin: Rat and shghtly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and notched, protruding postero-dorsally. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, low, indented, fused and irregular colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Narrow and elongate, may be flared at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Weh developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Weh developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shahow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Ab¬ sent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Glossogobius caUidus, SSF No. 240.43 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Aldabra, Mozambique, south to Port Elizabeth. Attains 12 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.75 mm OD, 96 mm TL), 0793H; Lake Sibaya; Id. M. Bruton. 206 Otolith shape: Rectangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex or flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Approximately oval and small, sulcus angled antero-ventrally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge¬ like from posterior ostium to caudal tip, poorly developed at anterior. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, covering most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Gobiodon citrinus, SSF No. 240.47 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Delagoa Bay. At¬ tains 6 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.5, 1.65 mm OD, 40, 42 mm TL), 1039H, 0994H; Eilat; Id. TH, AD. Otolith shape: Rectangular and tall. Thickness: Medium thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Straight and slightly emarginate, slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present dorsally in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval. Cauda: Approximately round, sulcus angled antero-ventrally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 0994H eroded. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Veiy poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Istigobius decoratus , SSF No. 240.56 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific south to Durban. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.4 mm OD, 129 mm TL), PEM 6742 (RUSI 28464); ORI; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately square. Thickness: Moderate. Form:- Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded, postero-dorsal comer rounded and raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, lobe protrudes postero-dor sally. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Homomorph, low and dumbbell shaped. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Approximately round. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low, rounded ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Istigobius ornatus, SSF No. 240.57 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific. Attains at least 9.3 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.15 nun OD, 93 mm TL), PEM 4355; Durban Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular to wedge shaped. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Oblique, lobe raised posteriorly; sculpture, ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, postero-dorsally flared and irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, collicu¬ lum fused. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Approximately rounded, posterior wall poorly defined, sulcus horizontal. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed at extremes, may be absent in posterior. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Absent. Nemateleotris magnifica, SSF No. 240.64 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: From Sodwana Bay and Comoro Ids to Mar¬ quesas Is. in Pacific. Attains 9 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.8mmOD, 74 mm TL), PEM 2868; Sodwana; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Rectangular to tall. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat and approxi¬ mately entire. Posterior margin: Straight, slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Homomorph. Pseudocolliculum: Present from neck to cauda. Ostium: Approximately oval and slightly bifid with small upper lobe. Cauda: Approximately rounded, posterior margin indistinct. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Very poorly developed along entire length of sulcus, poor to absent at posterior. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and indistinct. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Oxyurichthys papuensis , SSF No. 240.71 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Delagoa Bay. At¬ tains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.74 mm OD, 195mm TL), PEM 15446 (RUSI 40564); either Madagascar or Bazaruto; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Tall and oval. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Straight, notched, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indented,, anterior colliculum bifid, posterior circular. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly bifid and lobed. Cauda: Approximately oval with rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Poorly developed, may be low ridge in neck. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Distinct and oval. Ventral depres¬ sion: Two crescentic depressions separated by a crescentic ridge. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. 207 Parachaeturichthys polynema, SSF No. 240.73 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, to Natal. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.8 mm OD, 1 15 mm TL), PEM 0229; Tugela mouth; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately rounded-rectangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded, oblique; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho- momorph, very low colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present in the neck. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped, de¬ pressed in centre. Cauda: Approximately rectangular, caudal tip blunt, poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed in neck region, well rounded and raised from mid-ostium and over cauda, poorly developed over anterior ostium. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Shallow groove-like, area below this raised, and a broad, elongate, shallow groove present near margin. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Priolepis cincta, SSF No. 240.84 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, to Natal. Attains 6 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.95 mm OD, 49 mm TL), PEM 4356; Durban; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately square. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Ap¬ proximately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and protruding postero-dorsally, slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single low colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus oval, angled slightly antero-ven- trally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or low ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below posterior part is raised. Dorsal depression: Elongate, joins ventral groove. Ventral depression: Absent, narrow area raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove close to margin. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Psammogobius knysnaensis, SSF No. 240.87 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Known from Port Nolloth to Natal. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (1.6-2.45 mm OD, c. 50-101 mm TL), 1413H, 141 1H, 0218H; Swartkops and Fish River; Id. TH, OG. Otolith shape: Approximately rounded square, varies with growth. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat or slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Indented and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, fused colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Present from neck to anterior cauda. Ostium: Approximately arrowhead shaped, indented antero-dorsally and shallow. Cauda: Oblong. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.6, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge over mid-sulcus, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Sufflogobius bibarbatus, SSF No. 240.97 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Shoals between PortNolloth and SaldanhaBay. Attains 13 cm. MATERIAL: 4/85 (1. 9-4.2 mm OD, 72-159 mm TL), PEM 14679, 7794 (RUSI 28466), 10957, 14674; Cape west coast and Namibia; Id. PAH, PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Varied, approximately square or rounded. Thick¬ ness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded or raised; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Flat or slightly rounded and approximately en¬ tire. Posterior margin: Rounded or flat, may be notched and approximately entire. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph. Pseudocolliculum: Present in small otoliths (c. 2.8 mm OD) but indistinct. Ostium: Approximately arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Approximately oval. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed becoming low ridge, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus, area below raised. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow, covers most of area. Ventral depression: Absent, area below sulcus raised, a broad, shallow, crescent shaped groove present close to margin. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Yongeichthys nebulosus, SSF No. 240.107 PLATE 129 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in western tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans, extending south to Durban. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.12mmOD, 107mmTL), PEM 15445 (RUSI 40563); Madagascar or Bazaruto; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately pentagonal. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex or flat, - Lateral slightly concave or flat. Lateral surface: May have a papilla-like knob on lateral surface. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded with raised lobe poste¬ riorly; sculpture, serrate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Emarginate with protrud¬ ing dorsal corner, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indented, an¬ terior flared, posterior oval. Pseudocolliculum: Present below cauda. Ostium: Approximately oval to arrowhead shaped. Cauda: Oval. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Moderately well developed along the entire sulcus, may be a low, broad ridge over neck. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed but poorly developed posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Two shallow crescentic depressions separated by rounded raised area. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. ACANTHURIDAE Nelson No. 409 Family characteristics: Otoliths ovate, oblong or rounded-ovate, moderate in size up to at least 6.5 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium flared and oval, elongate in the genus Naso. Cauda usually short and sharply flexed with rounded tip, but may be gently flexed. Cristae usually well developed along most of sulcus, may be a low ridge over anterior cauda. Rostrum moderate to elongate. Key la. Otolith rounded-ovate; ostium deep and very broad . 2 lb. Otolith ovate or oblong ovate; ostium elongate or short, not very broad . 3 208 2a. Dorsal and posterior margins of otolith rounded; ostium deep and cup-like; dorsal depression shallow . . . . Zebrasoma gemmation 243.17 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded or raised; posterior margin angled and bluntly rounded or flattened; ostium moderately deep, not cup-like; dorsal depression distinct but shahow . . Zebrasoma scopas 243 . 1 8 3a. Ostium very elongate, tapered strongly on dorsal and ventral margins; anterior cauda relatively short, sharply flexed tip; posterior margin of otolith oblique and straight . 4 3b. Ostium not elongate and narrow and not distinctly ta¬ pered on dorsal and ventral margins; cauda of similar size; posterior margin of otohth rounded blunt or emarginate . 6 4a. Caudal tip almost reaches ventral margin; posterior cauda after flexion elongate, straight and poorly defined; posterior margin of otohth approximately vertical .... . Naso annulatus 243.20 4b. Caudal tip does not reach ventral margin; posterior cauda after flexion not elongate; posterior margin obhque or rounded . 5 5a. Dorsal depression deep, extends from neck to flexion; antirostrum elongate; posterior cauda deep after flexion . Naso brevirostris 243.22 5b. Dorsal depression small above anterior cauda, not extending to flexion; antirostrum short; posterior cauda shahow after flexion . Naso tuberosus 243.29 6a. Ostium very short, flared; cauda roundly flexed and elongate; caudal tip almost reaches ventral margin; rostrum short, broad and rounded . 7 6b. Ostium moderate, not widely flared; caudal tip does not end close to margin; rostrum moderate or narrow . 8 7a. Rostrum very broad and rounded; ostium short and flared widely; postero-dorsal comer angled; sulcus with distinct ventral constriction .... Acanthurus triostegus 243.11 7b. Rostrum moderately broad; ostium cup-like; postero- dorsal corner rounded; sulcus with curved ventral constriction . Acanthurus tennenti 243.9 8. Ostium moderate; cauda gently or sharply flexed with rounded tip. Several species which exhibit some intraspecific variation, consult photographs and reference material: Acanthurus blochii 243.1, A. dussumieri 243.2, A. leucostemon 243.3, A. lineatus 243.4, A. nigrofuscus 243.7, A. triostegus 243.1 1, A. xanthopterus 243.12, Ctenochaetus striatus 243.14, C. strigosus 243.15, Par acanthurus hepatus 243.16, Zebrasoma veliferum 243.19. Acanthurus blochii, SSF No. 243.1 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Durban. Attains at least 42 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.0 mm OD, 242 mm TL), PEM 15406 (RUSI 40613); Madagascar; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and shghtly crenate. Posterior margin: Blunt, emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi low, anterior slightly depressed. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately elongate, approximately oval. Cauda: Short, strongly flexed and flared at tip. Ostio-cau- dal differentiation: Dorso-ventrahy constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, posterior depression behind flexion, posterior margin angled and depressed. Ventral depression: Ab¬ sent. Rostrum: Short, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus dussumieri, SSF No. 243.2 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: AlgoaBay to western Pacific and Hawaiian Ids. Common on the Natal coast. Attains 54 cm. MATERIAL: 3/5 (5.32-6.1 mm OD, 238-284 mm FL), PEM 2668, 15407 (RUSI 40612), 5995; Limestone Reef, Madagascar and Botla Point; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded, raised in mid-margin; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and shghtly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, emarginate and shghtly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior and poste¬ rior colhcuh. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shghtly flared and moderately wide. Cauda: Approximately straight and sharply flexed distahy, tip short and rounded. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Shght dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Weh developed along sulcus, but ridge-like over ostium to mid-cauda. Crista inferior: Poor under ostium, weh developed to ridge-like along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, posterior margin depressed. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shahow, angle varies. Acanthurus leucosternon, SSF No. 243.3 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: Sodwana Bay to Indonesia. Attains 23 cm. MATERIAL: 4/16 (3.3-4.9 mm OD, 93-203 mm TL), PEM 6985, 6132 (RUSI 17178), 6453, 6452, [8796 (RUSI 37423)]; off Natal and PEO; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded or flat; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, obhque or emarginate and irregular, may be digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior and posterior colhcuh. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shghtly flared, walls steep. Cauda: Short, moderately wide and strongly flexed, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Shght dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low, ridge-like from ostium to caudal flexion, weh developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Weh developed but poor under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Indistinct and very shahow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus lineatus, SSF No. 243.4 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific south to Durban. Attains 38 cm. MATERIAL: 5/12 (3.0-6.34 mm OD, c. 138-300 mm TL), PEM 0482, 2669, 15408 (RUSI 40611), 0732, 0731; Durban Bay, Madagascar and Botla Point; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Shghtly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, cre¬ nate or irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, emarginate and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colhcuh. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shghtly flared and elongate, dorsal 209 edge of rostrum may be raised. Cauda: Short and flexed, tip rounded, relatively shorter with growth (c. 5.6 mm OD). Ostio- caudal differentiation: Very slight dorso- ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:0.7, 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed but poor under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Very small and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus nigrofuscus, SSF No. 243.7 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific to Coffee Bay, Transkei; common off Natal. Attains c. 20 cm. MATERIAL: 5/1 6 (2.85-4.4 mm OD, 87- 132 mm TL), PEM2717, 2775, 8328 (RUSI 37432), 4414, 6689 (RUSI 28465); Ledsman Shoal, ORI and Sodwana; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, emargi- nate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col- liculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared and wide. Cauda: Straight and flexed, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slight dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 4414 broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well de¬ veloped along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus tennenti , SSF No. 243.9 PLATE 130 DISTRIBUTION: Western Indian Ocean from Natal to Sri Lanka. Attains 31 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (5.82 mm OD, 310 mm TL), PEM 2894; Sod¬ wana; Id. GRA. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded, raised; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low anterior colliculum in posterior ostium and low poste¬ rior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Anterior deep and rounded, cup-like and flared. Cauda: Approximately straight then flexed with steep walls, tip rounded, ending close to margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral nar¬ rowing, more distinct dorsally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed, poorly developed over caudal tip. Crista inferior: Well developed. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, area irregular. Ros¬ trum: Short, very broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Very small, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus triostegus, SSF No. 243.11 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Throughout the Indo-Pacific (except Red Sea and Persian Gulf), south to the Bashee River; also in eastern Pacific. Attains 27 cm, usually up to 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/12 (2.0-3.35 mm OD, 67-161 mm TL), PEM 5433, 0608, 8642 (RUSI 37433), 2836, [6641 (RUSI 28469)]; KosiBay and near Cape Recife; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and emarginate, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Short and flared widely. Cauda: Approximately straight, moderately wide and flexed, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally narrowed. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge over neck and anterior cauda, poorly de¬ veloped over anterior ostium, moderately well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Well developed under entire sulcus. Dorsal de¬ pression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Short, very broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Acanthurus xanthopterus, SSF No. 243.12 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Durban to eastern Pacific. Attains 62.5 cm. MATERIAL: 5/16 (4.35-8.5 mm OD, 181-537 mm TL), PEM 6648 (RUSI 28468), 14828 (RUSI 37087), 5997, 5909, 14862, [9616 (RUSI 37449), 14830 & 14831 (both RUSI 37087)]; PEO, Limestone Reef and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elon¬ gate, slightly flared. Cauda: Long, straight then flexed, tip rounded ending near posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly narrowed dorso-ventally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, LI, 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed but poor under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove near margin. Ros¬ trum: Elongate, large and rounded. Antirostrum: Small or mod¬ erate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow or deep, angle varied. Ctenochaetus striatus, SSF No. 243.14 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains c. 26 cm. MATERIAL: 3/12 (4.0-4.5 mm OD, 123-147 mm TL), PEM 14829 (RUSI 37091), 8326 (RUSI 37431), 14267, [8327 (RUSI 37434)]; Comoro Ids and Kosi Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial moderately convex, - Lateral moderately concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and angled, slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Flat, emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and oval. Cauda: Ap¬ proximately straight and flexed at rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well devel¬ oped along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or small and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Ctenochaetus strigosus , SSF No. 243.15 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.9, 5.0 mm OD, 140, 180mmTL), PEM 14268, 14563 (RUSI 31404); Mauritius and Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; 210 sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or slightly emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu- lum: Heteromorph, slightly raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared. Cauda: Approximately straight becoming flexed, tip rounded. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventral constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: May be shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or very small and rounded. Ex- cisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Paracanthurus hepatus, SSF No. 243.16 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to central Pacific. Attains c. 26 cm. MATERIAL: 3/9 (1.7-2.8 mm OD, 46-133 mm TL), PEM 7696 (RUSI 28471), 0485, 6781; PEO and ORI; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep anteriorly, flared, mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Deep, approximately straight then flexed at rounded tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Gentle dorso-ventral curves. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to mid-cauda, well developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded or rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Moderately large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. Zebrasoma gemmatum, SSF No. 243.17 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Mauritius, Madagascar, SodwanaBay and Dur¬ ban. Attains at least 22 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.8 mm OD, 176 mm TL), PEM 14806; St Lucia Marine Reserve; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Rounded ovate. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral very concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, bulbous in posterior part of ostium, posterior indistinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very flared, short and deep anteri¬ orly. Cauda: Very deep, approximately straight then flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed under cauda but poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle wide. Zebrasoma scopas, SSF No. 243.18 PLATE 131 DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout most of Indo-Pacific re¬ gion, south to Natal. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (2.0-3.6 mm OD, 54-175 mm TL), PEM 7698 (RUSI 28470), 10625, 10626; ORI; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate. Thickness: Very thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Bluntly rounded and irregular, juveniles (c. 2 mm OD) more rounded. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi very low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared, lying mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Deep, short and strongly flexed with slightly pointed tip. Juveniles (2 mm OD) shallower, and gently flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:0.9, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, may be a step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus may be ridge-like over anterior cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed elsewhere. Dor¬ sal depression: Oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, very broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small becoming large and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide or wide, notch shallow becoming deep, angle acute. Zebrasoma veliferum, SSF No. 243.19 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (3.4, 4.1 mm OD, 135, 194 mm TL), PEM 6460, 15031 (RUSI 35590); PEO; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph and very low, posterior crystalline. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared anteriorly and elongate. Cauda: Approximately straight, gently flexed near tip and moderately deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ventral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge- like over posterior ostium to anterior cauda, well developed elsewhere. Crista inferior: Well developed, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Naso annulatus, SSF No. 243.20 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Natal. Attains at least 100 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (c. 5 mm OD (damaged tip), 490 mm TL), PEM 0621; Durban Aquarium; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Raised and rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and oblique, den¬ tate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, colliculi low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Moderately deep and very elongate with parallel sides. Cauda: Approximately horizontal and slightly sinuate with sharp flexion, tip near ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorsal narrowing. Ostium/cauda: c. 1:0.7. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like over neck and anterior cauda, well developed over ostium and caudal flexion. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like from mid-ostium to flexion, poorly developed under anterior ostium, well developed at caudal tip. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Elongate along sulcus to flexion. Ros¬ trum: Tip broken. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle acute. Naso brevirostris , SSF No. 243.22 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Durban, young to Algoa Bay. Attains at least 50 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (4.7, 5.0mmOD, 255, 300 mm TL), PEM 14560 (RUSI 34099), 15661; Mauritius, Comoro Ids; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Approxi- 211 mately flat and oblique; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, sinuate and serrate. Posterior margin: Flat, approxi¬ mately vertical and serrate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul- coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very elongate and narrow, lying mainly on rostrum, deepest in middle. Cauda: Slightly sinuate, strongly flexed, very deep posteriorly undercutting ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent, low step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to flexion, well developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to flexion, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, may be a shallow bifid groove from under ostium to flexion. Rostrum: Elongate, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch very deep or shallow with groove, angle acute. Naso tuberosus, SSF No. 243.29 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to Gilbert Is. Attains at least 60 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.9 mm OD, 331 mm TL), PEM 14535; Mau¬ ritius; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and serrate to dentate. Posterior mar¬ gin: Flat and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Very elongate and narrow, slightly flared. Cauda: Flared and slightly flexed posteriorly, posterior wall poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slight dorso-ven- tral narrowing. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from mid-ostium to flexion, well developed over anterior ostium, poorly developed after flex¬ ion. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under posterior ostium, well de¬ veloped under cauda, poorly developed under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Absent, narrow and deep, slit-like groove under ostium. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle acute. ACANTHURIDAE Nelson No. 409 (ZANCLIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: One species described. Otolith approxi¬ mately discoid and moderately small, up to c. 4 mm OD. Hetero¬ sulcoid with ostial opening, ostium and cauda similar width and not obviously differentiated, sulcus approximately horizontal, slightly curved, ends close to posterior margin. Heteromorph, colliculi very low. Crista superior ridge-like along its length. NOTE: Although this genus is included in the Acanthuridae by Nelson, the differences between the otoliths suggest that it should not be included there. Zanclus canescens, SSF No. 244.1 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: From Africa to Mexico but not in the Red Sea. Juveniles reach Mossel Bay. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 3/6 (2.55-3.9 mm OD, 77-204 mm TL), PEM 4153, 11302, 6761; Kosi Bay and PEO; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat, oblique or raised; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Well rounded and irregular. Poj *erior margin: Rounded, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: ostial, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low collie : i. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared, ot easily distinguishable from cauda. Cauda: Approximately horizontal with rounded tip and very slightly flexed, width constant along its length, ends near margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Very slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along its length. Dorsal depression: Elongate and straight over cauda. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent but posterior depression close to margin. Rostrum: Moderate, broad, tapered and pointed or blunt. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch deep, angle acute. SIGANIDAE Nelson No. 410 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths ovate to fusiform, up to at least 4.2 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with narrow ostium along edge of rostrum and antirostrum, cauda deep and strongly flexed, poorly defined posteriorly. Heteromorph with very indistinct colliculi. Rostrum elongate, distinct antirostrum with deep excisural notch. Key la. Posterior margin of otolith rounded; rostrum elongate, sharply rounded not tapered; dorsal margin of rostrum crenate; cauda only slightly flexed, ventral groove does not penetrate caudal tip . Siganus stellatus 245.1 lb. Posterior margin of otolith oblique, may be emarginate; rostrum tapers when elongate; dorsal margin of rostrum entire; cauda flexed, ventral groove penetrates caudal tip . 2 2a. Crista inferior ridge-like under ostium; ventral groove elongate along entire ventral area; posterior margin of otolith flat or slightly rounded and lobed . . Siganus sutor 245.2 2b. Crista inferior poorly developed under ostium; ventral groove very short, only reaches flexion; posterior margin emarginate and crenate .... Siganus argenteus 245.- Siganus argenteus , (Quoy & Gaimard, 1825) SSF No. 245.- PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: From the east coast of Africa and Red Sea throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific to the Tuomoto Ids, including Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Laccadives and Maldives. Attains 35 cm, common to 25 cm (Woodland, 1984). MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.85 mm OD, 1 10 mm TL), PEM 15394 (RUSI 40576); Bazaruto; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lat¬ eral surface: V-shaped depression from nucleus to posterior margin. Dorsal margin: Oblique and angled; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, slightly emarginate and crenate to lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Reduced and narrow along margins of rostrum and anti¬ rostrum. Cauda: Deep, strongly flexed with posterior margin poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Very low and narrow. Crista superior: Ridge-like over ostium, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under anterior ostium and caudal tip, low ridge to flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow above ridge. Ventral depression: Groove-like below flexion, penetrates crista near dp. Rostrum: Elongate, narrow and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Narrow, tapering and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. 212 Siganus stellatus, SSF No. 245.1 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Kosi Bay northwards, on coral reefs throughout the Red Sea, west and central Indian Ocean, and Andaman Sea. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.25 mm OD, 260 mm TL, otolith damaged), 1 171H; Nabek, south Sinai; Id. AD. Otolith shape: Fusiform. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flat and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate and irregular. Sulcus acusti- cus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi vety indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very re¬ duced and narrow, deep, lying mainly along antirostrum. Cauda: Deep, slightly flexed at tip and moderately wide. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, ridge-like at neck, well developed above cauda. Crista inferior: Uneven and ridge-like below ostium and cauda, tip well developed. Dorsal depression: Deep, penetrates dorsal crista. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent, only a groove under crista. Rostrum: Large, elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Narrow and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch very deep, angle acute. Siganus sutor, SSF No. 245.2 PLATE 132 DISTRIBUTION: Restricted to western Indian Ocean: South Af¬ rica (Knysna) to Kenya, Seychelles, Comoro Ids, Madagascar, Reunion, Mauritius and Rodrigues. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 3/4 (1.85-4.15 mm OD, 102-305 mm 1L), PEM 0178, 14551 (RUSI 31449), 0326; PEO, Mauritius and AlgoaBay; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate becoming fusiform (>c. 3 mm OD). Thick¬ ness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Indented or raised along mid-line under sulcus. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded becoming flat and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded, becoming flattened, oblique with broad lobes (c. 3.2 mm OD). Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and deep, straight ventrally, reduced, flared mainly along antirostrum. Cauda: Wide, flexed and deepening postero-ventral- ly, undercuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.7, 1:0.7. Collum: Well developed, narrow. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge- like over ostium and neck, ridge joins collum, poorly defined over deep cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium and cauda, poorly developed at extremes. Dorsal depression: Penetrates dorsal crista at neck. Ventral depression: From tip of cauda running to rostrum as a groove. Rostrum: Large, elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Moderately large, tapered and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. GEMPYLIDAE Nelson No. 412 Family characteristics: Six species described. Otoliths elliptic to ovate or fusiform, up to at least 14 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, pseudo-archaesulcoid or archaesulcoid. Openings ostial, some become ostio-caudal with growth. Ostium elongate, cauda usually short, walls poorly defined or with very low ridge. Sulcus straight or curved, banana- like. Homomorph or heteromorph, colliculi low and indistinct. Rostrum usually elongate and tapered. Otoliths of juveniles of this family are extremely similar and are difficult to distinguish from each other. Key la. Otolith oblong to fusiform, not elliptic; antirostrum distinct, moderately large and broad . . Gempylus serpens 247.2 lb. Otolith elliptic to ovate or elliptic to fusiform; antirostrum small or short and broad . 2 2a. Rostrum relatively small . 3 2b. Rostrum elongate and tapered . 5 3a. Antirostrum very small; otolith shape elliptic; excisural notch shallow; distinct notch in postero- ventral comer of otolith with overhanging lobe on posterior margin . . . . Neoepinnula orientalis 247.4 3b. Antirostrum usually distinct but tapered; excisural notch moderately shallow; posterior margin of otolith may be notched at mid-point, no over-hanging lobe on posterior margin . 4 4a. Crista inferior low but distinct and ridge-like under cauda, poorly developed under ostium; dorsal depression shallow; ventral depression below cauda . . Promethichthys prometheus 247.- 4b. Crista inferior extremely low and indistinct but very low ridge under mid-sulcus, poorly developed under cauda; dorsal and ventral depressions absent . . Rexea prometheoides 247.6 5a. Ventral margin of otolith rounded; rostrum large, tapered and pointed, not bifid; cauda ends close to posterior margin; sulcus opening becomes ostio-caudal; notch in posterior margin of otolith deepens, erodes postero- dorsal area . Thyrsites atun 247.8 5b. Ventral margin of otolith slightly rounded; rostrum large, tapered with bifid tip; cauda ends short of posterior margin of otolith; notch in posterior margin of otolith shallow; dorsal area of otolith elongate . . Thyrsitoides marleyi 247.9 Gempylus serpens , SSF No. 247.2 PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: Worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters; sometimes in temperate latitudes. Attains 1 m. MATERIAL: 4/4 (2.95-3.6 mm OD, 367470 mm TL), PEM 0537a, 9639 (RUSI 37443), 0537b, 14332 (2 Californian speci¬ mens in 0537); Algoa Bay and California; Id. MJS, PCH, JEF. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex or flat. - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, notched and crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat, slightly irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid, may appear archaesulcoid if not coated. Colliculum: Heteromorph, extremely low and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares, lies mainly along rostrum, very poorly defined. Cauda: Slightly flexed, very shal¬ low, wide and very poorly defined posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: May be well developed above ostium and neck, poorly developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Low ridge below neck, poorly developed under ostium and very poor under caudal tip. Dorsal depression: Very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, moderately elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moder¬ ately large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moder¬ ately deep, angle acute. Neoepinnula orientalis, SSF No. 247.4 PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: Found in all oceans near edge of continental shelf and islands. Attains c. 30 cm. 213 MATERIAL: 6/30 (4.3-7.1 mm OD, 127-245 mm TL), PEM 14427 (RUSI 28473), 12472 (RUSI 34080), 3708, 13009, 13005, 13008, [12471 (RUSI 37080), 12539 (RUSI 34069), 12540 (RUSI 34063), 12974 (RUSI 34072), 14426 (RUSI 28473)]; Mozam¬ bique and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, dentate or crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, dentate or crenate. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded, notched and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single indistinct colliculum indented in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus slightly flared antero-dorsally, posterior sulcus tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge over posterior two thirds of sulcus, absent at extremes. Crista inferior: Low ridge along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow over most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Elongate and shallow under crista. Rostrum: Mod¬ erate, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Absent or very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle varies. Promethichthys prometheus, (Cuvier, 1831) SSF No. 247.- PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: In tropical and temperate waters of the eastern Indian Ocean, western central Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Known from the northern part of the Mozambique channel and off Kerala (India); also recorded from Kenya. Attains 60 cm SL (Nakamura, 1984). MATERIAL: 2/3 (7.72, 7.96 mm OD, 320, 330 mm SL), PEM 15342, 15340; Comoro Ids; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic to ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly round¬ ed, dentate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, walls poorly defined, sulcus flexed upward, banana-like. Cauda: Short, poorly defined walls with rounded tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly de¬ veloped over ostium, very low ridge from neck to tip, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium, low but distinct ridge from neck to tip, absent at tip. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, large and oval. Ventral depression: Very shallow and oval under ridge. Rostrum: Large, broad, tapered and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. Rexea prometheoides, SSF No. 247.6 PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: Japan, Indonesia and northern Australia from Mozambique and Kenya. Attains c. 40 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.2-5.5 mm OD, 155-210 mm TL), PEM 12885 (RUSI 28467), 13329, 12768 (RUSI 28484); Cape south and west coasts and Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic becoming ovate (c. 5.5 mm OD). Thick¬ ness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat. - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate, serrate and dentate. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded, notched, lobed or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, sin¬ gle colliculum, depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus curves up anteriorly and posteriorly, banana-shaped. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very low ridge in mid-section, very poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Very low ridge in centre, very poorly developed under anterior, absent posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short becoming elongate (c. 5.5 mm OD) and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or moderate and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow becoming moderate, notch shallow becoming moderately deep, angle acute. Thyrsites atun, SSF No. 247.8 PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: Mesopelagic in cold waters of the southern hemispheres. Common in southern Australia, New Zealand, south¬ ern South America and South Africa. Attains 2 m. MATERIAL: 4/70 (3.5-14.28 mm OD, 133-950 mm SL), PEM 7376 (RUSI 34157), 3589, 10597, 1253; Cape west and south coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic becoming fusiform (c. 9 mm OD). Thick¬ ness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, crenate and serrate. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched, becoming very notched with growth, and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, becoming ostio-caudal with growth (>c, 9 mm OD), pseudo-ar¬ chaesulcoid or heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and poorly defined, lying mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Short, straight, poorly defined margins, opens to a posterior notch in large otoliths (>9 mm OD). Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent or may be dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along sulcus, large otoliths (c. 9 mm) may have a low ridge over the neck. Crista inferior: Absent under ostium, poorly developed under cauda, may be very low ridge under neck. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and large. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderate to elongate and broad, pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Minute becoming moderate and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate to very wide with growth, notch moderate becoming deep, angle varies. Thyrsitoides marleyi, SSF No. 247.9 PLATE 133 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Algoa Bay and north to Japan. Attains 200 cm. MATERIAL: 4/7 (5.05-8.5 mm OD, 1 86-987 mm TL), PEM 5066, 5065, 14449, 14868 (RUSI 35537), [14870 (RUSI 35535), 14869 (RUSI 35541)]; Cape south coast and Kenya; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Elliptic to fusiform. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, notched, lobed and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-ar¬ chaesulcoid or heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indis¬ tinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and flared slightly, dorsal wall of rostrum raised in large otoliths (c. 6 mm OD). Cauda: Short and may be slightly flexed, tip rounded and poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent or slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.4, 1:0.6, 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very low ridge from ostium to cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Very low ridge from ostium to cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, over most of area, oval shaped. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Broad, tapered, elongate and pointed, may have bifid tip in large otoliths (c. 7 mm OD). Antirostrum: Small becoming moderate (c. 7 mm OD) and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide becoming wide, notch moderate, angle acute. TRICHIURIDAE Nelson No. 413 Family characteristics: Otoliths oblong to fusiform, up to at least 8 mm OD. Archaesulcoid or pseudo-archaesulcoid sulcus, open- 214 ings mesial or ostial, usually shallow. Colliculi homomorph or heteromorph, usually indistinct. Key la. Otolith oblong; sulcus archaesulcoid and very shallow; sulcus opening mesial except largest of individuals which may have extremely narrow and indistinct ostial opening . . Benthodesmus elongatus elongatus 248.3 lb. Otolith oblong or oblong to fusiform; sulcus pseudo- archaesulcoid; ostium moderately deep; sulcus opening ostial . 2 2a. Rostrum relatively elongate and tapered; posterior margin of otolith tapered, sharply rounded or pointed; lateral surface of otolith slightly indented along its length . Lepidopus caudatus 248.4 2b. Rostrum relatively small, tapered and pointed; posterior margin of otolith sharply rounded and irregular; lateral surface of otolith very concave with deep trough in midline . Trichiurus lepturus 248.6 Benthodesmus elongatus elongatus, SSF No. 248.3 PLATE 134 DISTRIBUTION: New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. At¬ tains c. 1 m. MATERIAL: 4/7 (3.45-6.1 mm OD, 400-872 mm TL), PEM 5052 (RUSI 14050), 14906 (RUSI 35573), 13428, 13427, [5051 (RUSI 14050)]; Cape west coast, Kenya and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Slight depression under sulcus in smallest otoliths (c. 4 mm OD). Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, notched, crenate and irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial becom¬ ing ostial in large otoliths (c. 6.1 mm OD), but opening indistinct, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus poorly defined, shallow depression. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: No constrictions. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed, may be a very low ridge in mid-sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed, may be low ridge in mid-sulcus. Dorsal depression: May be depression in posterior third of area. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Absent or small and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch absent or very shallow, angle wide. Lepidopus caudatus, SSF No. 248.4 PLATE 134 DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean, eastern Atlantic from Norway and Iceland to South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Attains c. 2 m. MATERIAL: 4/160 (2.3-7.68 mm OD, 227-2630 mm TL), PEM 7500 (RUSI 28472), 12225, 9588, 3940; Cape south and east coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Slightly indented along its length. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, lobed or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Tapered, sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear mesial, pseudo- archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deeper than cauda, slightly flared and poorly defined. Cauda: Shallow, filled with colliculum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or low ridge from mid-ostium to cauda, poorly developed at extremes. Crista inferior: Low ridge from neck to cauda, poorly developed under ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Moderately long, broad, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Moderate to wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Trichiurus lepturus, SSF No. 248.6 PLATE 134 DISTRIBUTION: Cosmopolitan species of tropical and temperate waters. Attains 2 m. MATERIAL: 4/55 (2.35-7.06 mm OD, 246-790 mm TL), PEM 1707, 11721 (RUSI 28492), 12735, 1708, [12957 (RUSI 34076)]; off Durban and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex or flat, - Lateral concave or flat. Lateral surface: Concave with elongate, moderately deep trough along otolith midline. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or slighdy irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, lobed and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares slightly, distinguishable by shape of floor. Cauda: Short, shallow, poorly defined, narrows posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge from ostium to cauda, tip poorly developed. Crista inferior: Low ridge along entire sulcus but poorly developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Narrow, below crista. Rostrum: Moderately large and pointed. Antirostrum: Small, pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. SCOMBRI DAE Nelson No. 414 Family characteristics: Otoliths ovate, angular, fusiform or ob¬ long, may have pointed rostra and otoliths may attain at least 22 mm OD, but are thin and fragile. Heterosulcoid with ostial open¬ ings although posterior margin may erode to meet caudal tip. Sulcus often deep, ostium often covers most of rostrum, cauda usually deep, slightly flared and slightly flexed at tip. Dorsal and ventral areas reduced and narrow, usually with grooves making cristae ridge-like. Colliculi often very poorly defined, may be low and indistinct, anterior may be nodular in ostium. Key la. Otoliths rectangular; rostrum a short, pointed spike-like projection; ostium widely flared dorsally and ventrally with pit in dorsal margin of ostium (if spike-like rostrum damaged, anterior margin appears blunt and rostrum apparently absent) . 2 lb. Otolith oblong or ovate to fusiform; rostrum elongate, tapered or rounded; dorsal pit in ostium absent .... 3 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat; cauda moderately wide, flares dorsally; dorsal area of otolith wide; dorsal depression very shallow . . Rastrelliger kanagurta 249.8 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith becomes strongly emarginate with growth; cauda narrow and elongate, strongly flexed and narrow at tip; dorsal area reduced and narrow; dorsal depression deep . Scomber japonicus 249.1 1 3a. Otoliths very angular, elongate triangular or angularly fusiform; posterior margin of otolith flat and strongly oblique; dorsal and ventral comers of posterior margin sharply angular; antirostrum short or minute . 4 3b. Otolith oblong or elongate, ovate to fusiform; posterior margin of otolith not angularly oblique and flat; dorsal and ventral comers of posterior margin not distinctly angular; antirostrum relatively large (may overhang excisura) . 6 215 4a. Dorsal margin of otolith slightly irregular, approximately flat, angled and raised posteriorly, otolith wedge-shaped; excisural notch very shallow; antirostrum minute; crista superior a low rounded ridge along entire sulcus; postero-ventral comer of otolith produced and rounded . Gymnosarda unicolor 249.6 4b. Dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat, raised posteriorly and crenate; excisural notch shallow; antirostrum small or short and broad; crista superior ridge-like to flexion, well developed elsewhere; postero-ventral comer of otolith sharply angled . 5 5a. Crista inferior well developed; lateral surface of otolith with strong sculpturing; cauda narrow, slightly flared posteriorly . Sarda orientalis 249.9 5b. Crista inferior a broad ridge; lateral surface of otolith with weak sculpturing; cauda wide, flared posteriorly . Sarda sarda 249.10 6a. Rostrum distinctly narrower than otolith height; rostrum elongate, tapered and narrow, may flare at tip; excisural notch not obscured by antirostrum . 7 6b. Rostrum not distinctly narrower than otolith height; rostrum not markedly tapered and narrow; excisural notch usually obscured by antirostrum . 9 7a. Rostrum elongate, flared and cup-like at tip, curved laterally; posterior margin of otolith flat and blunt; otolith elongate; cauda narrow, slightly flexed at tip . Acanthocybium solandri 249 .1 7b. Rostrum tapered, tip pointed or sharply rounded; rostral tip does not curve laterally; posterior margin of otolith either flat and oblique or slightly rounded; cauda flexed and flared or slightly flared at flexion . 8 8a. Otolith elongate, fusiform and narrow; rostrum elongate and narrow; cauda narrow; ostium relatively narrow; ventral area with shallow groove in mid-area . Scomberomorus commerson 249. 12 8b. Otolith stubbier, ovate to fusiform; rostrum moderately elongate and relatively broad; cauda wide; ventral area with deep groove under crista inferior . . Scomberomorus plurilineatus 249.13 9a. Dorsal margin of otolith distinctly emarginate; postero-dorsal comer raised and angular; excisural notch not completely obscured by antirostrum . . Kalsuwonus pelamis 249.7 9b. Dorsal margin flat or slightly emarginate; postero- dorsal comer not angular and raised; excisural notch at least partially obscured by antirostrum . 10 10a. Rostrum flared and blunt; caudal tip reaches posterior margin of otolith, where wall is thin and lacy . . Euthynnus affinis 249.4 10b. Rostrum not distinctly flared; caudal tip does not reach posterior margin of otolith: Thunnus spp. (T. alalunga 249.14, T. albacares 249.15, T. maccoyii 249.16, T. t. thynnus 249.18.) NOTE: Specific identification may be possible by comparison of otoliths to reference material and knowledge of the local fauna. Acanthocybium solandri , SSF No. 249.1 PLATE 134 DISTRIBUTION: From Sodwana to Algoa Bay, rarely to Cape Point. A worldwide species of tropical and subtropical waters in all three major oceans and the Mediterranean Sea. Attains 210 cm FL, 83 kg. MATERIAL: 2/2 ( 1 1 . 1 6, 1 2.2 mm OD, 1 21 6, 1 590 mm FL), PEM 1853, 61 15; Natal and off Gonubie; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate-fusiform. Thickness: Very thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approxi¬ mately flat, slightly emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly emarginate, serrate and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi, sulcus deep, may be small nodules in ostium. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate, covers most of rostrum, slightly cupped and flared at tip. Cauda: Straight, deep, undercutting ventral area and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, short ridge under neck, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Narrotv, elongate and deep, dorsal area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Deep groove runs along anterior cauda, area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Elongate and slightly curved, tip sharply rounded, cupped and flared. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Euthynnus affinis , SSF No. 249.4 PLATE 134 DISTRIBUTION: Cape St Francis or Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay. Throughout warm waters of the Indo-West Pacific, stray in the eastern tropical Pacific. Attains c. 100 cm FL, at least 13 kg. MATERIAL: 1/2 (5.0 mm OD, 545mm FL, 570 mm TL), PEM 15561; Red Sea; Id. IN. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: High ridge under cauda and dorsal area. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculp¬ ture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and irregular to lacy. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, appears ostio-caudal as posterior wall erodes with growth, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide, flared and deep, extends across most of rostrum, dorsal rostral margin raised and angular. Cauda: Deep, flared and only dorsal margin slightly flexed, caudal tip ends at eroded posterior margin, slightly under¬ cuts ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso- ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Narrow, low ridge along the length of the sulcus. Crista inferior: Poor under anterior ostium, very well developed or low narrow ridge elsewhere, tip eroded. Dorsal depression: Narrow, moderately elongate and deep, almost groove- like, dorsal area very reduced and very narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, shallow short groove under neck, elongate shallow groove from ostium to mid-cauda. Rostrum: Large and broad, angularly flared, blunt and crenate. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Ex¬ cisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Gymnosarda unicolor , SSF No. 249.6 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, distribution not continuous, taken off St Lucia. Attains 206 cm FL, 131 kg. MATERIAL: 1/1 (6.0 mm OD, 530 mm FL, 605 mm TL), PEM 14564; Mauritius; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong to triangular. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Narrow anteriorly with groove at dorsal margin, postero-dorsally flared, wing-like. Dorsal margin: Rat, oblique, raised posteri¬ orly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Sinuate, serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rat, oblique, slightly irregular and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low and indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow and elongate, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Approximately straight ventral wall, deepens and flares dorsally at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent, angular step up 216 to cauda. Crista superior: Narrow, simple and low ridge from ostium to tip. Crista inferior: Low rounded ridge along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Oval and moderately deep, area reduced and triangular. Ventral depression: Shallow groove runs parallel to crista, area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Katsuwonus pelamis, SSF No. 249.7 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Common from AlgoaBay to DelagoaBay, also from False Bay. Fairly abundant off Angola. Cosmopolitan in tropical and warm-temperate waters. Attains 108 cm FL, 34 kg. MATERIAL: 4/8 (4.75-6.18 mm OD, c. 500 - 620 mm FL), PEM 0805, 2661, 0989, 15680; Algoa Bay, Sodwana 'and off Cape Recife; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Ridge close to dorsal margin. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat to strongly emarginate, raised posteriorly; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Flat to emarginate, slightly irregular or crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique to rounded and dentate to irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as posterior wall erodes with growth, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Wide, flared and deep, extends across half of rostrum, may be pitted, dorsal rostral margin raised and irregular. Cauda: Very deep, flared and flexed posteriorly, undercuts ventral area, caudal tip ends at posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:2, 1:2.1, 1:1.9, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along the length of the sulcus. Crista inferior: Narrow ridge along entire sulcus, tip may be eroded. Dorsal depression: Narrow, elongate and deep, almost groove-like, dorsal area very reduced and very narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, two grooves, one along mid-area, the other under cauda. Rostrum: Large, broad, angu¬ larly flared, tip sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed, may become dorsally flexed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Rastrelliger kanagurta, SSF No. 249.8 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Durban northwards to Red Sea; widespread in Indo-West Pacific. Has entered eastern Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal. Attains 35 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.3 mm OD, 224 mm FL), PEM 5976; off Durban; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately rectangular with pointed rostrum. Thickness: Moderate, rostrum thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, fused, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares widely antero-dorsally, with cone-shaped hollow. Cauda: Flares and deepens posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Low ridge over ostium, well developed along cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent, groove in mid-area from ostium to mid-cauda. Rostrum: Moderate and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Sarda orientalis, SSF No. 249.9 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Cape St Francis northwards to Natal coast; widespread in Indo-Pacific, but distribution not continuous. At¬ tains 102 cm FL, at least 1 1kg. MATERIAL: 2/2 (4.25, 5.26 mm OD, 397, 424 mm FL), PEM 15466, 15465; off Noordhoek; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Angularly fusiform. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Slightly stronger ridges, grooves and sculpturing com¬ pared to Sarda sarda. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat, raised posteriorly; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flat to slightly emarginate and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct and low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Relatively narrow, flares very slightly dorsally and deepens pos¬ teriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge -like from ostium to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow, elongate and deep, area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Shallow, covering most of area. Ventral area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Very elongate and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Very wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Sarda sarda , SSF No. 249.10 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Abundant off Angola and northern Namibia. From Cape Point to Mossel Bay. Range extends, apparently to Port Alfred, possibly to Durban; tropical and temperate coasts of Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean and Black seas. Attains 85 cm FL, 8 Kg. MATERIAL: 3/4 (6.28-6.7 mm OD, 487-496 mm FL), PEM 1913, 0988, 6496; Mossel Bay and Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Angularly fusiform. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral sur¬ face: Bulge at the postero-dorsal corner. Dorsal margin: Ap¬ proximately flat, raised posteriorly; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Flat and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, indistinct and low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Covers most of rostrum, elongate, wall deep at neck. Cauda: Flares dorsally and deepens posteriorly. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 0988 broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well devel¬ oped at tip. Crista inferior: Broad and ridge-like from posterior ostium to caudal tip, poorly developed under anterior ostium. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep, area very reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Elongate, entire ventral area flattened, re¬ duced and narrow. Rostrum: Very elongate and pointed. Anti- rostrum: Short, broad and pointed or rounded. Excisura: Very wide, notch shallow, angle acute. Scomber japonicus, SSF No. 249.11 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Common about the Cape, scarcer towards Na¬ tal. Cosmopolitan in warm waters. Attains 50 cm FL. MATERIAL: 7/175 (2.4-6.7 mm OD, 137415 mm TL), PEM 7310 (RUSI 28482), 731 1 (RUSI 28482), 1458, 9412, 9406, 9250, 9246, [7687 (RUSI 34060)]; Cape south and west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rectangular with pointed rostrum. Thickness: Moderately thin, rostrum fragile (often damaged and lost in stom¬ ach contents). Form: - Mesial strongly convex, - Lateral strongly concave. Dorsal margin: Emarginate; sculpture, irregular. 217 Ventral margin: Flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat, slightly oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low, fused col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares widely, dorsal wall high, dorsal crista undercut. Cauda: Sinuous, deep and narrow, undercutting ventral area and strongly flexed at deep tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.3, 1:1.6, 1:0.9. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly devel¬ oped under ostium, ridge- like from neck to flexion, well developed at tip. Dorsal depression: Narrow, elongate and deep above cauda. Ventral depression: Narrow depression under cauda and a shallow groove occurs in mid-area. Rostrum: Small (c. 3 mm OD) becoming moderate and pointed (>c. 4 mm OD). Antiros¬ trum: Very small, short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moder¬ ately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Scomberomorus commerson, SSF No. 249.12 PLATE 135 DISTRIBUTION: Sometimes caught on Cape south coast, rarely to False Bay. Widespread throughout Red Sea and Indo-West Pacific. Attains 220 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/14 (12.38-16.5 mm OD, 877-1135 mm FL, 2697 not measured), PEM 2697, 1912, 2662, 8276; Sodwana and vicin¬ ity and Algoa Bay; Id. GRA, MJS. Otolith shape: Fusiform, narrow and elongate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Low diagonal ridges to postero-dorsal and postero-ven- tral comers. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat and slightly emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat may be slightly emarginate, serrate and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Rounded or oblique, dentate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, nodular anteri¬ or, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, flexed, flared and deep posteriorly, it undercuts the ventral area. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: Ab¬ sent, may be a step to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow, deep and oval, area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: May be shallow groove in mid-area. Rostrum: Elongate and sharply rounded or pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Moderately elongate, sharply rounded or pointed, may obscure excisural notch beneath it. Excisura: Wide, notch mod¬ erately deep, angle acute. Scomberomorus plurUineatus, SSF No. 249.13 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Confined to western Indian Ocean from Tsitsi- kamma to Kenya and west coast of Madagascar. Attains 120 cm FL. MATERIAL: 2/5 (12.3, 14.06 mm OD, 8143 = 725 mm FL, 0470 FL not recorded), PEM 8143, 0470; St Lucia; Id. RvdE, MJS. Otolith shape: Ovate to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, crenate and irregular. Ventral margin: Rat or slightly emarginate, dentate, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or flat and oblique, crenate, irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum nodular, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Slightly flared and elongate, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, deep, slightly flared and flexed near tip, undercutting ventral area. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed after flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like under neck and cauda. Dorsal depression: Narrow, elongate and deep, area narrow. Ventral depression: Groove runs under ventral crista, area narrow. Rostrum: Moderately elongate and moder¬ ately broad, tip sharply rounded or pointed. Antirostrum: Mod¬ erate and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle acute. Thunnus alalunga, SSF No. 249.14 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Oceanic, primarily from the western Cape re¬ gion. Cosmopolitan between 45°-50°N and 30°-40°S. Attains 127 cm FL, common to 100 cm FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (12.58 mm OD, fish not measured), PEM 15467; locality unknown; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Large keel under dorsal area, lobe near postero-dorsal comer. Dorsal margin: Slightly emarginate and slightly raised posterior¬ ly; sculpture, serrate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and slightly crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded dorsally, oblique, irregular or crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct and low. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared ventrally, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Deep V-shaped flared dorsal wall and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Broad ridge from ostium to flexion, well developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Broad ridge from ostium to flexion, well developed under flexion. Dorsal depression: Slit-like and deep, dorsal area very narrow. Ventral depression: Shallow, narrow groove from ostium to flexion, ventral area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Large, moderately broad and pointed. Anti¬ rostrum: Moderate and pointed, overhangs excisura. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute (obscured by antirostrum in electron micrograph). Thunnus albacares, SSF No. 249.15 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Abundant off Angola and southern African coast. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas. Attains 200+ cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/15 (8.8-11.12 mm OD, 605-c. 810 mm FL), PEM 7466, 7470, 0858, 2663; Sodwana Bay and off Algoa Bay; Id. GJBR, MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Large keel under dorsal area. Dorsal margin: Rat or slightly emarginate and raised posteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Ap¬ proximately flat, serrate and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded or flat and oblique, serrate or crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Colliculi not raised or may have indistinct anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flared ventrally, covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Deep V-shaped flared dorsal wall and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.6, 1:2.2, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed there¬ after. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well devel¬ oped under cauda. Dorsal depression: Slit-like and deep, dorsal area very narrow. Ventral depression: Shallow, narrow groove runs along mid-area, ventral area reduced and narrow. Rostrum: Large, moderately broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed, overhangs excisura. Excisura: Wide, 218 notch moderate, angle acute (obscured by antirostrum in electron micrograph). Thunnus maccoyii, SSF No. 249.16 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Off southern Africa only from off the Cape region during winter. Probably found throughout the southern oceans south of 30°S. Attains at least 225 cm FL. MATERIAL: 4/8 (6.8-21.4 mm OD, 400-1860 mm FL), PEM 15065, 15068, 15070, 15064; off Tasmania; Id. C. Procter. Otolith shape: Oblong to fusiform. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Keel under postero-dorsal comer, thickens with growth. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Approximately flat or slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and oblique or slightly rounded, pointed ventrally and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus- ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph; low, nodular anterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, cupped, rostral edge slightly raised (and very fragile); covers most of rostrum. Cauda: Slightly sinuous, flared dorsally and deepening posteriorly, tip pointed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or ridge-like from ostium to flexion, well developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed or ridge-like thereafter. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Slit-like over sulcus, dorsal area reduced and narrow. Ven¬ tral depression: Absent, deep groove runs along mid-area, deepens with growth. Rostrum: Large and broad, tip pointed or rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed, overhangs ex- cisural notch. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Thunnus thynnus thynnus, SSF No. 249.18 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: In the Agulhas Bank and False Bay area in summer. Attains more than 3 m FL. MATERIAL: 1/1 (9.64 mm OD, fish not measured), PEM 0981; locality uncertain, possibly south Pacific; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Lateral surface: Keel under dorso-posterior comer. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat, slightly sinuate and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat and oblique, ventral comer pointed and slightly crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior nodular colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, covers nearly half of rostrum. Cauda: Slightly sinuate to straight, slightly dorsally flared and deepening posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed to ridge-like along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge-like from neck to caudal tip. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Groove-like in mid-area, area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Absent, groove in mid-area from neck to flexion. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed, overhangs excisural notch. Excisura: Wide, notch mod¬ erate, angle acute. XIPHIIDAE Nelson No. 415 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths minute in relation to fish size, up to at least 2.9. mm OD. Otolith shape ovate-fusiform and axe-shaped, very thin and delicate. Heterosul¬ coid, sulcus shallow and very poorly defined. Ostial or ostio-cau¬ dal opening, ostium covers most of elongate rostrum. Cauda poorly defined, slightly flexed at tip, crista superior extremely poorly developed. Heteromorph with very indistinct colliculi. Xiphias gladius, SSF No. 251.1 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Found in all oceans. In this area found between Namibia and Natal. Attains 5 m and well over 500 kg. MATERIAL: 2/2 (c. 2. 1-2.9 mm OD, fish size not recorded, c. 3-4m), PEM 1966, 2087; off Natal and south of Algoa Bay; Id. RvdE, GJBR. Otolith shape: Ovate-fusiform, axe-shaped. Thickness: Thin and delicate. Form: - Mesial strongly concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised, rounded; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat, serrate and irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded, may be notched ventrally and serrate. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostial, may become ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocoll i- culum: Absent. Ostium: Covers most of rostrum, floor smooth. Cauda: Short, wide and rounded, may have pits or grooves to margin, very poorly defined and shallow. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9, 1966 broken. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Extremely poorly developed. Crista inferior: Poorly developed. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent, area irregular. Ros¬ trum: Elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Large, very broad. Excisura: Very wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. ISTIOPHORI DAE Nelson No. 417 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths minute and based on the single specimen available, up to at least 4 mm OD, shaped like an hour-glass or anvil. Archaesulcoid, sulcus deep, no raised colliculi. Makaira indie a, SSF No. 252.2 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Primarily an Indo-Pacific species but fairly common off the Cape of Good Hope. Attains 4.5 m, 700 kg. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.4mm OD, 3430 mm TL), PEM 0726; off Cape Recife; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately hour-glass or anvil-like. Thick¬ ness: Thin and delicate. Form: - Mesial strongly concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised, slightly rounded; sculp¬ ture, serrate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and crenate. Posterior margin: Notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Ostio-caudal, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: No raised colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus a deep V-shaped depression in mid-otolith. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed. Crista inferior: Low and uneven ridge along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, very shallow groove in mid-area, ventral area re¬ duced. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. NOMEIDAE Nelson No. 420 Family characteristics: Seven species described. Otoliths of some species similar to Stromateidae. Otoliths ovate, oblong or oval- ovate up to at least 21 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium approximately oval, lies on rostrum, cauda straight, may be flexed or slightly flexed at tip. Heteromorph with low or indistinct colliculi. Several of the species are represented only by juveniles and this should be borne in mind when using the key and descriptions. Key la. Cauda straight, not flexed or slightly flared and very slightly flexed near tip . 2 lb. Cauda distinctly flexed . 3 2a. Otolith broad; antirostrum large; excisural notch distinct; caudal tip bluntly rounded but poorly defined . Ariomma indica 255 .1 219 2b. Otolith relatively narrow; antirostrum small; excisural notch narrow; caudal tip slightly flexed, may taper to tip . Cubiceps caeruleus 255.4 3a. Cauda narrow; dorsal margin of otolith flat and slighdy crenate or slightly irregular; ostium narrow; rostrum relatively elongate; antirostrum minute . . Cubiceps baxteri 255.3 3b. Cauda not narrow; dorsal margin raised, rounded or flat and crenate; ostium relatively wide, not elongate; antirostrum small to moderate . 4 4a. Ostium angled antero-dorsally; cauda sharply flexed with pointed tip; ventral margin of otolith distinctly rounded . P senes whiteleggii 255.12 4b. Ostium horizontal; cauda flexed or slightly flexed with rounded tip; ventral margin not distinctly rounded . 5 5a. Posterior margin of caudal tip poorly defined and rounded; antirostrum large and broad . . Nomeus gronovii 255.7 5b. Posterior margin of caudal tip well defined, flexed and rounded; antirostrum small . 6 6a. Caudal tip flared and flexed in juveniles; dorsal margin of otolith flat, becoming raised with growth; excisural notch shallow . Cubiceps capensis 255.5 6b. Caudal tip flexed, not flared in juveniles; dorsal margin of otolith flat and slightly crenate in juveniles; excisural notch distinct . Cubiceps pauciradiatus 255.6 Ariomma indica, SSF No. 255.1 PLATE 136 DISTRIBUTION: Mossel Bay eastwards to southern Japan. At¬ tains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 5/18 (1.55-4.25 mm OD, 51-141 mm TL), PEM 5108, 4543, 4336, 5107, 4542; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin; Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed or crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin; Slightly rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda; Straight, slightly flared posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1.1, 1:1.4, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Collum; Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, low ridge from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and caudal tip, well developed along cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression; Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad, pointed or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderate, angle varies. Cubiceps baxteri, SSF No. 255.3 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. May ex¬ ceed 100 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.1 mm OD, 195 mm TL), PEM 14975 (RUSI 35584); Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Very thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Hat; sculpture, slightly crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and elongate, opens on to dorsal margin of rostrum. Cauda: Straight, narrow, flexed and deep posteriorly, tip poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superi¬ or: Well developed over ostium, a low ridge from neck to flexion, poorly developed thereafter. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed or a low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Ros¬ trum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch very shallow, angle wide. Cubiceps caeruleus, SSF No. 255.4 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Southern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Up to at least 25 cm. MATERIAL: 4/35 (4.7-5.8 mm OD, 170-201 mm TL), PEM 13613, 14156 (RUSI 28485), 13942, 13945, [14157 (RUSI 34075), 15356 & 15357 (both RUSI 38219)]; Cape west coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ven¬ tral margin: Slightly rounded, crenate or lobed. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate to dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior collicu¬ lum, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, dorsal rostral margin irregular. Cauda: Straight, slightly flexed at poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slightly curved dorso-ventrally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.7, 1:0.8, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent, low step present. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, low ridge from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Moderate to poorly developed below ostium, low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Very shallow under cauda. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Very small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle acute. Cubiceps capensis, SSF No. 255.5 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Probably circumglobal in southern hemisphere. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2(4.85, c. 21. 2 mm OD, 130, 515 mm TL), 1533H, PEM 10362; Cape Recife and Agulhas Bank; Id. MJS, TH, PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Hat becoming raised (c. 20 mm OD); sculpture, crenate becoming irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and cre¬ nate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, flares slightly. Cauda: Narrow, flexed, rounded and poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, slight step present. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium and caudal tip, low ridge from neck to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, low ridge from neck to flexion, well developed after flexion. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and elongate. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shal¬ low, angle varied. Cubiceps pauciradiatus, SSF No. 255.6 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/3 (5.72 mm OD, c. 106 mm TL), PEM 0948; tropical eastern Pacific; Id. JEF. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dor¬ sal margin: Hat; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly 220 rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and dorsally flexed, approximately oval. Cauda: Straight, moderately wide, flexed at tip and ending well short of posterior margin but close to ventral margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed above ostium, low ridge from neck to flexion, poorly defined tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed or absent under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral de¬ pression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle varied. Nomeus gronovii , SSF No. 255.7 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal in warm waters. Attains 39 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.3 mm OD, 68 mm TL), PEM 3936; Sedge- field; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded and irreg¬ ular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromorph, low, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Mainly straight, slightly flexed and poorly defined tip. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed along sulcus, very poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium and caudal tip, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. Psenes whiteleggii, SSF No. 255.12 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean and Australia. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 4/20 (5 .7-6.9 mm OD, 147- 1 80 mm TL), PEM 6140, 12794 (RUSI 28486), 6148, 12898 (RUSI 28483); Mozambique, Durban and Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flat; sculpture, slightly lobed or crenate. Ventral margin: Rounded and crenate or slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Narrow, oval and slighdy dorsally flexed. Cauda: Straight, flexed and deepening at posterior tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent, slight step to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. TETRAGON URI DAE Nelson No. 422 Family characteristics: Based on a single species; oval-ovate up to at least 4.4 mm OD, with raised and/or rounded dorsal margin. Heterosulcoid sulcus with ostial opening, cauda straight but tip extremely poorly defined. Heteromorph, colliculi very indistinct. Rostrum large and pointed, antirostrum small. Crista superior distinctly ridge-like. Tetragonurus cuvieri, SSF No. 256.2 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Natal; also western Mediterranean, eastern At¬ lantic and Pacific oceans. Attains 70 cm. MATERIAL: 2/3 (3.4, 4.4 mm OD, 382, 475 mm TL), PEM 14752, 13295; Cape west coast, lodged in SAM. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Rounded, raised; sculpture, crenate or lobed. Ventral mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or lobed. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approxi¬ mately oval, lies mainly on rostrum, flared slightly dorsally. Cauda: Straight, tip poorly very defined. Ostio-caudal differen¬ tiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like from ostium along cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Absent or poorly developed under ostium, well developed or low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. STROMATEI DAE Nelson No. 423 Family characteristics: Six species described. Some species simi¬ lar to Nomeidae. Otolith shape varies considerably; oblong, ovate, oval-ovate, semi-circular or rounded-ovate to fusiform, up to 32.5 mm OD. Some are thin and wafer-like, others moderately thick. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings, rarely may appear ostio-caudal or mesial. Ostium and cauda shape varies considerably, as do the colliculi although all are heteromorph. The diversity of form suggests the family is in need of revision. Key la. Otolith semicircular; sulcus angled at 45° . . Schedophilus huttoni 254.6 lb. Otolith oblong, oval -ovate or fusiform; sulcus approximately horizontal . 2 2a. Otolith rounded-ovate or ovate to fusiform; antirostrum broad or moderate; cauda moderately wide; excisura not slit-like . 3 2b. Otolith approximately oblong; antirostrum usually narrow or minute; cauda narrow; excisura relatively narrow, notch may be slit-like . 4 3a. Rostrum broad and rounded; dorsal margin of rostrum very irregular; dorsal margin of otolith rounded or raised; posterior margin of otolith rounded; antirostrum short and broad; excisural notch shallow . . Hyperoglyphe moselii 254.3 3b. Rostrum moderately large, becoming distinctly elongate; dorsal margin of rostrum slightly irregular; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; posterior margin of otolith notched or sharply rounded; antirostrum moderate; excisural notch moderate . . Stromateus fiatola 254.10 4a. Ostium elongate and angled; cauda short and straight; otolith wafer-like, thin .... Centrolophus niger 254. 1 4b. Ostium moderately long; cauda straight and elongate, flexed at tip; otolith not thin and wafer-like . 5 5a. Cauda very elongate and very narrow; ostium narrow and elongate; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith flat to slightly rounded and relatively narrow and elongate; otolith elongate .... Hyperoglyphe antarctica 254.2 221 5b. Cauda moderately elongate, moderately wide; ostium short and wide; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith slightly rounded; otolith relatively broad . . Schedophilus ovalis 254.8 Centrolophus niger, SSF No. 254.1 PLATE 137 DISTRIBUTION: Temperate waters of Australia, New Zealand, South America and South Africa, also north Atlantic and Mediter¬ ranean. Attains 120 cm. MATERIAL: 4/7 (17.7-32.5 mm OD, 447-980 mm TL), PEM 14200, 14592, 14588, 14591; off Namibia; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Thin, wafer-like. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, slightly raised posteriorly; sculpture, crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Oblique, sharply rounded or pointed and crenate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, hetero- sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low colliculi. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Large, oval, antero-dorsally angled, opens narrowly to dorsal margin of rostrum. Cauda: Short, straight and narrow with pointed tip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1;0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well de¬ veloped along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Large, oval and very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, very broad, rounded or angular. Antirostrum: Moderate or small and pointed. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow to moderate, angle acute. Hyperoglyphe antarctica, SSF No. 254.2 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Temperate waters; islands of south Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans; New Zealand, southern Australia and South Africa. Attains 1 10 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (20.3, 28.7 mm OD, 710, 1040 mm TL), PEM 7884, 7883; Gough Is.; Id. PAH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate, thicker than pre¬ vious species. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Flat to slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Flat to slightly rounded, crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low col¬ liculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, narrow and elongate, lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Long and narrow, elongate, straight then flexed and deepening at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8, 1:2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and after flexion, low and narrow ridge from neck to flexion. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and very shal¬ low. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate, pointed or rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate, angle acute. Hyperoglyphe moselii, SSF No. 254.3 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Gulf of Guinea to South Africa, St Helena, from 270m or more. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (8.5-11.1 mm OD, 324-358 mm TL, 12138 not measured), PEM 14759, 14692, 14758, 12138; west coast; Id. PC, MJS. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ven¬ tral margin: Rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Col¬ liculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, fairly long and narrow, lies on rostrum, rugose, rostral dorsal margin irregular. Cauda: Straight, narrow and slightly flexed at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven¬ trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.6, 1:1.3, 1:1.5, 1:1.1. Col¬ lum: Absent, may be a step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, low ridge from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, low ridge or well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depression: Shallow lunate depression in mid-area may be present. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Moderate or minute, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch moderate or shallow, angle varies. Schedophilus huttoni, SSF No. 254.6 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal in Southern Ocean; off Namibia. Attains 90 cm. MATERIAL: 5/18 (15.3-17.1 mm OD, 551-771 mm TL), PEM 14779, 14600, 14603, 14599, 14597; off Namibia; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Semicircular. Thickness: Thin and wafer-like. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Radiating ridges in herring-bone pattern. Dorsal margin: Hat with slight indentation and fold above cauda; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded with minute crenations. Posterior margin: Shaiply rounded with minute crenations. Sulcus acusti¬ cus: Ostial, may appear mesial as eristae poorly developed, hetero¬ sulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, very low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Nar¬ row and elongate, poorly defined, penetrates dorsal margin, sulcus angled at about 45 degrees. Cauda: Straight, narrow and short, tip pointed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poor or absent over ostium, narrow ridge above cauda. Crista inferior: Very poor or absent under ostium, narrow ridge below cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, very broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and pointed. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Schedophilus ovalis, SSF No. 254.8 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Northwest Africa, Atlantic Ids, Mediterranean, South Africa, Australia and Pacific. Attains 100 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (14.32, 19.82 mm OD, c. 500, 820 mm TL), 1616H, PEM 15487; off East London; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, serrate, dentate or crenate. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and crenate. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded, crenate or dentate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior distinct, posterior colli¬ culum low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Oval and narrow. Cauda: Straight for most of its length, deeper and flexed posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.7, 1:2.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed at ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow and oval. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and pointed. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderately shallow, angle acute. Str ornate us fiatola , SSF No. 254.10 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, round the Cape to Natal. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 7/55 (3.16-7.7 mm OD, 104-335 mm TL), PEM 4275, 4278 (RUSI 13246), 4509 (RUSI 12812), 12461, 4653 (RUSI 14953), 4982, 11739, [4272 & 4274 ( both RUSI 13246), 222 4652 & 4696 (both 14953), 4287 &4288 (both RUSI 12769]; Natal and Cape south coast; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Rounded-ovate (<4 mm OD), becoming fusiform with elongate rostrum with growth (c. 7 mm OD). Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: V-shaped depression under anterior sulcus. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and crenate or serrate. Posterior margin: Oblique or sharply rounded, dentate or irregular and may be notched. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-caudal as a notch from posterior margin may reach caudal tip, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low anterior, indistinct posterior colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Osti¬ um: Oval or with bulbous ventral wall becoming elongate and narrow (c. 7 mm OD). Cauda: Straight and slightly flexed near tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.1, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1.5, 1:1.4, 1:1. Col- lum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium, ridge-like from neck to flexion, poorly developed at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed below ostium, well developed below cauda. Dorsal depression: Oval and shallow. Ventral depres¬ sion: Absent, may be a groove in the ventral area. Rostrum: Broad and sharply rounded, becoming elongate, narrow and pointed with growth. Antirostrum: Moderate or large, broad and pointed or sharply rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide becoming very wide, notch moderate, angle acute. ORDER PLEURONECTIFORMES PSETTODIDAE Nelson No. 432 Family characteristics: Description based on two species. Otoliths angularly ovate or elongate ovate, up to at least 16 mm OD. Heterosulcoid with ostial openings. Ostium triangular and indented, cauda flexed. Depressions in dorsal and ventral areas distinct. Heteromorph, anterior colliculum indented, posterior colliculum indistinct. Key la. Otolith angular and broad; dorsal margin of otolith emarginate; cauda straight, flexed at tip; sulcus in midline of otolith . Psettodes erumei 257.1 lb. Otolith elongate and relatively narrow; dorsal margin of otolith slightly rounded; cauda flexed along its length; sulcus dorsal to midline; caudal tip ends close to posterior margin . Psettodes sp. 257.- Psettodes erumei, SSF No. 257.1 PLATE 138 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-West Pacific from Delagoa Bay to Australia and Japan. Attains 60 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (13.94, 16.44 mm OD, 410, 463 mm TL), PEM 15475 (RUSI 40617), 0225; Tugela Bank and off Madagascar; Id. GJBR; PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Angularly ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly emarginate; sculpture, notched and slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, notched and very irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, ante¬ rior depressed and triangular, posterior depressed and indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately triangular and deeply indented with low rim on anterior edged. Cauda: Straight, flexed and deepening at tip, shallower than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Ridge-like and irregular from ostium to cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like at neck and very broad, well developed elsewhere. Dorsal depression: Approximately oval, broader pos¬ teriorly, may penetrate sulcus atmid-cauda. Ventral depression: Elongate and very deep, entire area depressed. Rostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. Psettodes sp. (possibly belcheri), SSF No. 257.- PLATE 138 NOTE: Specific identification of this otolith is dubious as the fish is no longer preserved. Judging from distribution of P. belcheri , it is more likely to be this species rather than P. erumei , to which it was assigned in 1973, particularly as the otoliths are different from the latter species. DISTRIBUTION: P. belcheri occurs on west African coast from Guinea (c. 10°N) to Angola (c. 17°S). Attains 60 cm (Nielsen 1981). MATERIAL: 1/1 (16.38 mm OD, 540 mm TL), PEM 0273; Southern African west coast; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Elongate ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, notched and serrate. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Narrow, pointed and digitate. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior colliculum in¬ dented and triangular, posterior indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares dorsally, triangular and indented. Cauda: Gently flexed, tip ends close to posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Absent, slight step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped to ridge-like along the entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate and moderately deep, area reduced and narrow. Ventral depression: Ventral area angled and depressed to margin. Ros¬ trum: Large, broad, sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Minute and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch very shallow, angle wide. CITHARIDAE Nelson No. 433 Family characteristics: One species described. Otoliths oval up to c. 7.5 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, opening ostial, ostium tilted and elongate. Cauda deep and slightly sinuate, poorly defined at tip. Heteromorph, colliculi low, posterior very indistinct. Left and right otoliths similar, left side with slightly smoother margins. Citharoides macrolepis, SSF No. 258.1 PLATE 139 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Natal to Kenya. Attains 25 cm. MATERIAL: 6/15 (5.0-7.4 mm OD, 154-230 mm TL), PEM 12913 (RUSI 28479), 12967, 12966, 12834 (RUSI 34159), 12980, 12999; Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral sur¬ face: Dimple-like depression in centre. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, lobed and irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly crenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded, crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may appear ostio-pseudocaudal if not coated, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, very low anterior colliculum, posterior ex¬ tremely indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and narrow, antero-dorsally angled. Cauda: Narrow, sinuate and deep, poorly defined at tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (Left) 1:0.8, 1:0.8, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.8, 1:0.8. Ostium/cauda: (Right) 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1, L0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Narrow ridge along length of sulcus, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, ridge below cauda narrows posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Oval and deep. Ventral depression: Moder¬ ately deep, especially right otoliths. Rostrum: Small and sharply 223 rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Ex- cisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. BOTHIDAE Nelson No. 434 Family characteristics: Otoliths of five species described; in addition, two putative species are described on the basis of otolith morphology which differs between individuals originally identi¬ fied as Chascanopsetta. Otoliths oblong, oval or discoid up to c. 5.6 mm OD. Either hetero- or homosulcoid. Left and right otoliths may vary considerably in details but usually equal-sized. Ostial (usually left) or mesial openings (usually right otoliths) with the ostium generally longer than the cauda. Colliculi usually de¬ pressed or low and either hetero- or homomorph. Dorsal and ventral depressions often joined in a horse-shoe shape. Key la. Otolith oblong; margins of otolith very irregular; otolith broad and elongate; sulcus not pit-like or slit-like; cauda short and narrow . Pseudorhombus arsius 259.17 lb. Otolith rectangular-oval or discoid; margins of otolith slightly irregular, lobed or entire; sulcus elongate and deep or slit-like and pit-like . 2 2a. Otolith (at least left side) approximately rectangularly oval; crista superior well developed; dorsal depression absent; ventral depression slit-like; sulcus slit-like; ostium bulbous . Bothus mancus 259.3 2b. Otolith oval or discoid; crista superior well developed or absent; dorsal and ventral depressions present, joined to form crescentic or horse-shoe shape . 3 3a. Ostium elongate; cauda shorter than ostium; crista superior and inferior ridge-like, broad and rugose ... 4 3b. Ostium oval or slit-like; cauda and ostium similar sized; crista superior and inferior narrow and ridge-like but not rugose . 5 4a. Ostium and cauda not deeply depressed; cristae slightly rugose; otolith oval to elongate; dorsal and ventral depressions moderately shallow . . Amoglossus capensis 259.1 4b. Ostium and cauda deep, slit or pit-like; cristae very rugose; dorsal and ventral depressions deep . . Laeops pectoralis 259.13 5. Three apparently different species of Chascanopsetta which exhibit features which differ considerably, but grouped here pending further taxonomic investigation. Arnoglossus capensis, SSF No. 259.1 PLATE 139 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to Angola, St Helena and Ascension Is. Attains 18 cm. MATERIAL: 7/45 ( 1.9-2. 9 mm OD, 84- 1 72 mm TL), PEM 14396, 11495, 14388, 14383, 11623 (RUSI 28487), 15036, 11661 (RUSI 28487), [11605 (RUSI 34067), 12543 (RUSI 34068), 12544 (RUSI 28517), 12669 (RUSI 28515), 14377 (RUSI 28518)]; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval. Note left and right otoliths are similar but not mirror images. Intra-specific variation considerable. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approxi¬ mately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly lobed or entire. Ventral margin: Rounded or angular, wider posteriorly, slightly lobed or entire. Posterior margin: Rounded or sharply rounded and lobed or entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Left and right otoliths vary inconsistently, narrow and triangular or oval. Cauda: Slit-like or oval, deeper than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted on internal walls of cristae. Ostium/cauda: (Left) 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.9, 1:0.5. Ostium/cauda: (Right) 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:1.1, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1 :0.7. Collum: Present or may have a slit passing through. Crista superior: Well developed over anterior ostium, broad, rough ridge along rest of sulcus, tip well developed or ridge-like. Crista inferior: Well developed under anterior ostium, broad, flat ridge elsewhere. Dorsal depression and ventral depression: may be joined forming horseshoe, or both crescentic. Rostrum: Short and broad or minute and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch extremely shallow, angle wide. Bothus mancus, SSF No. 259.3 PLATE 139 DISTRIBUTION: Widely distributed from Durban to Hawaii and Easter Is. Also reported from Mexico. Attains 42 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (2.35, 2.6 mm OD, 339, 400 mm TL), PEM 15641, 14539; Comoro Ids, Mauritius; Id. PCH, MJS. Otolith shape: Rectangular-oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Rounded and crenate or irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, het¬ erosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Bulbous ventrally, moder¬ ately deep. Cauda: Slightly ventrally flexed and deep. Ostio-cau¬ dal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (Left) 1:1.1, 1:1.3. Collum: Absent. Crista su¬ perior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, with rough ridge under cauda, may extend forward to ostium. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ven¬ tral depression: Groove-like under ridge. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Chascanopsetta sp. Kenya form, SSF No. 259.- PLATE 140 DISTRIBUTION: Chascanopsetta lugubris has been recorded from Natal to Delagoa Bay; Indo-Pacific and Atlantic oceans in 120-977m. Examination of the otoliths have revealed three appar- endy different forms or species which are treated separately here. They await further investigation. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.0-3.85 mm OD, 276-303 mm TL), PEM 5038, 5036, 5037 (part of series RUSI 13780, 13743); Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and entire. Posterior margin: (L) rounded; (R) sharply rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: (L) ostial and heterosulcoid; (R) usually mesial, appears homosulcoid. Colliculum: Colliculi de¬ pressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: (L) slit-like and slightly flared; (R) pit-like. Cauda: (L) oval and deep, may angle postero-ventrally; (R) pit-like. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted on internal margin of cristae. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:0.6. Ostium/cauda: (R) 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:0.5. Collum: (R) present; (L) may be absent. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, joining crista inferior, poorly developed at anterior ostium tip in right otoliths. Crista inferior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, but absent at anterior tip of right otoliths. Dorsal depression and ventral depression: joined in horseshoe shape, (L) depression shallower than (R). Rostrum: (L) short, broad and rounded; (R) absent. Antirostrum: (L) short and broad and sharply rounded; (R) absent. Excisura: (L) narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide; (R) excisura absent. Chascanopsetta sp. Natal and Mozambique form, SSF No. 259.- PLATE 140 DISTRIBUTION; See previous description. 224 MATERIAL: 8/8 (1.07-1.81 mm OD, 180-260 mm TL), PEM 0413, 13037, 12852, 13033 (RUSI 34089), 13035, 13034 (RUSI 34084), 13036, 0431; off Durban and Mozambique; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Square to oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: (L) slightly rounded or flat; (R) rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: (L) slightly rounded or flat; (R) rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Sharply rounded or emarginate and entire. Sulcus acusticus: (L) ostial, heterosulcoid; (R) mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: (L) heteromorph with protruding col- liculum; (R) homomorph, very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: (L) elongate, flares slightly with protruding colliculum; (R) oval. Cauda: (L) oval and deep; (R) oval and slightly raised. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.5, 1:0.7, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:0.8 Ostium/cauda: (R) 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.9, 1:1.6, 1:0.9, 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: (L) well developed over ostium, ridge -like over cauda; (R) poorly developed or low, narrow ridge from ostium to cauda. Crista inferior: (L) well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda; (R) poorly developed or low ridge in mid-sulcus. Dorsal depression and ventral depression: Joined, forming a horseshoe, (L) shallower; (R) deeper. Rostrum: (L) small and rounded; (R) absent. Antirostrum: (L) minute and rounded; (R) absent. Ex- cisura: (L) narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide; (R) excisura absent. Chascanopsetta sp. Cape form, SSF No. 259.- PLATE 140 DISTRIBUTION: See Kenya form. MATERIAL: 2/14 (1.1, 1.4 mm OD, 157, 160 mm TL), PEM 14424, 14972 (RUSI 35521); Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately discoid. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: (L) ostial and heterosulcoid; (R) mesial, homosulcoid. Colliculum: (L) heteromorph, colliculi depressed; (R) heteromorph, low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: (L) oval and slightly flared; (R) oval, poorly defined. Cauda: (L) oval or circular; (R) oval and poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.7, 1:0.9; (R) 1:1.4, 1:1.1. Collum: (L) May be present and low; (R) absent. Crista superior: (L) ridge-like from ostium to cauda; (R) well developed or ridge¬ like over ostium, very poorly developed or absent over cauda. Crista inferior: (L) ridge-like from ostium to cauda; (R) poor to absent under ostium, low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression and ventral depression: Joined as horse-shoe shaped depression. Rostrum: (L) short, broad and rounded; (R) absent. Antirostrum: (L) short, broad and rounded; (R) absent. Excisura: (L) narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide; (R) absent. Laeops pectoralis, SSF No. 259.13 PLATE 141 DISTRIBUTION: Natal, DelagoaBay and Mombasa. Attains 19 cm. MATERIAL: 3/13 (2.65-3.3 mm OD, 150-174 mm TL), PEM 12833, 13001 & 13040 (all RUSI 28491); Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded to flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, slightly irregular or entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and slightly lobed or slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: (L) mesial, but may be ostial in large (c. 3 mm OD); (R) mesial, both heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Shovel or spear-like and deep. Cauda: Smaller, oval and deep. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted on inside margins of cristae. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.7, 1:0.6, 1:0.6; (R) 1:0.8, 1:1, 1:0.8. Collum: Present, may have narrow slit through it. Crista superi¬ or: Ridge-like, broad and nodular along entire sulcus joining crista inferior. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, broad and slightly nodular. Dorsal depression: Oval, elongate, covering most of dorsal area, deeper on left otoliths. Ventral depression: Narrow and elongate, deeper on right otoliths. Rostrum: (L) if present, small, broad and rounded; (R) absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: (L) if present, narrow, notch shallow, angle wide; (R) excisura absent. Pseudorhombus arsius, SSF No. 259.17 PLATE 141 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Algoa Bay and possibly to Knysna. Attains 36 cm. MATERIAL: 3/3 (3.45-5.58 mm OD, 188-395 mm TL), PEM 0838, 0366, 1009; Swartkops and Durban; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, lobed or irregular. Posterior margin: Oblique or sharply rounded and very irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Usually mesial but may be ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero¬ morph, anterior and posterior colliculi low but distinct. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approximately oval and elongate, walls poorly defined. Ostium of left otoliths narrow anteriorly. Opens to margin in large otoliths (c. 5.5 mm OD). Cauda: Short, approximately straight, narrows posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differ¬ entiation: Slight ventral constriction. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.7, 1:0.7, 1:0.5; (R) 1:0.8, 1:0.6, 1:0.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed above ostium, well developed over cauda. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow and elongate, may be absent in large otoliths (c. 5.5 mm OD). Ventral depression: Absent or groove¬ like from caudal tip to neck. Rostrum: If present, small, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: If present, very small and rounded. Ex¬ cisura: If present, very narrow, notch very shallow and angle wide. PLEURONECTIDAE Nelson No. 435 Family characteristics: Three species described. Otoliths in this family are extremely varied, possibly suggesting different line¬ ages. Otoliths oval, rounded-pentagonal or oval-ovate but small, up to c. 3.5 mm OD. Heterosulcoid, and ostial, mesial or para- ostial. Colliculi are either heteromorph or may not be visible. Cristae ridge-like or well developed, depressions deep forming horseshoe shape, joining behind cauda, or very shallow. Key la. Otolith oval ovate; rostrum tapered and pointed; excisural notch distinct; antirostrum and broad . . Samariscus triocellatus 260.5 lb. Otolith oblong to oval or pentagonal; rostrum small and short; excisural notch indistinct; antirostrum small or absent . 2 2a. Otolith oblong to oval; crista superior and inferior well developed or a low ridge; dorsal and ventral depressions very shallow and small . . Paralichthodes algoensis 260.2 2b. Otolith pentagonal; crista superior and inferior ridge-like and joined; dorsal and ventral depressions deep and crescentic or joined and horseshoe shaped . . . . . Poecilopsetta natalensis 260.3 225 Paralichthodes algoensis, SSF No. 260.2 PLATE 141 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay in l-100m. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2. 15 mm OD, 140 mm TL). PEM 0365; Durban; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oblong to oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Pos¬ terior margin: Rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, in¬ distinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Approxi¬ mately oval. Cauda: Straight, flares posteriorly with rounded, poorly defined, deep tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:1; (R) 1:1.2. Collum: Absent, arista superior: Well developed from ostium to cauda, low ridge may be present close to caudal tip. Crista inferior: Very poorly developed under ostium and at caudal tip, well developed or low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Very shallow, area may be pitted. Ventral depression: Shallow depression near tip and mid-cauda. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small and rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Poecilopsetta natalensis, SSF No. 260.3 PLATE 142 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to Kenya; also reported from Taiwan. Attains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.0, 3.5 mmOD, 153, 165 mmTL), PEM 13002 (RUSI 28478), 12984 (RUSI 28478); Mozambique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded to pentagonal. Thickness: Thick posteri¬ orly, narrowing anteriorly. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral convex and bulbous. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or angular; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded or angu¬ lar and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial or para-ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, colliculi depressed. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, depressed in centre with anterior rim which may have narrow canal opening to margin. Cauda: (L) large, broad and deep; (R) short, narrow and deep. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted on inner margins of cristae. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.7, 1:0.5; (R) 1:0.4, 1:0.4. Collum: Absent, neck constricted. Crista superior: Ridge-like along entire sulcus, joining crista inferior. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and broad, joining crista superior and may close ostium. Dorsal de¬ pression: (L) crescentic; (R) horseshoe shaped, continuous with ventral depression. Ventral depression: (L) crescentic, separated from dorsal depression; (R) horseshoe shaped. Rostrum: If pre¬ sent, large, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: If present, minute and sharply rounded. Excisura: If present, very narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. Samariscus triocellatus, SSF No. 260.5 PLATE 142 DISTRIBUTION: Sodwana Bay; western Pacific and Hawaii. Attains 7 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.0 mm OD, 62 mm TL), 0767H; Sodwana; Id. JER. Otolith shape: Oval-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and entire. Posterior margin: Rounded and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Col¬ liculi not visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flares and opens widely. Cauda: Straight, very slightly flared and poorly defined tip. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ven¬ trally constricted on internal margins of cristae. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.9. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed over ostium, low ridge above cauda, absent at tip. Crista inferior: Low ridge along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow horse-shoe shaped. Ventral depression Shallow and horse-shoe shaped, continuous with dorsal depression. Rostrum: Large, tapered and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Mod¬ erately wide, notch moderate, angle wide. CYNOGLOSSIDAE Nelson No. 436 Family characteristics: Four species described and an additional putative species or different form of Cynoglossus is also described. Otoliths rounded-triangular or oval to rounded-rectangular, up to at least 5.6 mm OD. Heterosulcoid or archaesulcoid with mesial or narrow ostial opening. Homomorph, single, fused colliculum which is often funnel shaped, usually slightly raised but may be depressed. Cristae usually very poorly developed, dorsal, ventral and posterior areas often raised with grooves around them. Key la. Otolith oval to rounded-rectangular; sulcus archaesul¬ coid; colliculum approximately oval and depressed .... . Cynoglossus marleyi 261 .8 lb. Otolith rounded -triangular; sulcus heterosulcoid; single fused, raised colliculum, not oval in shape ... 2 2a. Posterior part of colliculum forms rounded-triangular shape with rounded posterior wall; colliculum rounded funnel shape; dorsal, ventral and posterior areas not distinctly raised . Cynoglossus attenuatus 261 .2 2b. Posterior part of colliculum triangular with flat or straight posterior wall; colliculum angular funnel shaped; dorsal, ventral and posterior areas raised or slightly raised ... 3 3a. Anterior part of colliculum relatively short and broad; posterior part of colliculum relatively large . . Cynoglossus capensis 261 .3 3b. Anterior part of colliculum narrow and elongate; posterior part of colliculum reduced and angular .... 4 4a. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith angular to right-angled; otolith margin slightly irregular; dorsal, ventral and posterior areas slightly raised; colliculum small . . Cynoglossus cf capensis Mozambique form 261.- 4b. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith rounded or emarginate below and behind corner; margins of otolith generally irregular; dorsal, ventral and posterior areas raised with depressed grooves around them; colliculum slightly larger, becomes depressed in centre with growth . . Cynoglossus zanzibarensis 261.9 Cynoglossus attenuatus, SSF No. 261.2 PLATE 142 DISTRIBUTION: Found only from Durban to Delagoa Bay. At¬ tains 31 cm. MATERIAL: 4/18 (3.45-4.0 mm OD, 215-252 mm TL), PEM 15294 (RUSI 36879), 6676, 6675, 6678 (RUSI 34160), [15295- 15299 all (RUSI 36879)]; ORI and off Matikulu River mouth; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Approximately flat and postero-dorsal comer angled. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, may be mesial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused and raised colliculum, rounded funnel shaped. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, sulcus angled antero-ventrally. Cauda: Broad and approximately roundly triangular. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.9, 1:0.7, 1:0.9, 1:0.7; (R) 1:1.1, 1:1.7, 1:1.5, 1:0.9. CoUum: 226 Absent. Crista superior: Absent or poorly developed along entire sulcus, may be a low ridge at caudal tip. Crista inferior: Poorly developed or absent along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Crescentic, shallow around postero-dorsal comer, near margin. Ventral depression: Absent, may be groove near margin. Ros¬ trum: Absent or minute and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or large and rounded. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Cynoglossus capensis, SSF No. 261.3 PLATE 143 DISTRIBUTION: Kunene River (Namibia) to Natal. Attains 31 cm. NOTE: Because of differences in the otoliths our material has been split into two forms, one collected from the Cape and Natal and one from Mozambique. The validity of this split needs further investigation. MATERIAL: 5/135 (2.1-4.8mmOD,72-206mmTL),PEM4318, 4552, 2585, 3755, 3352; Cape south coast and Knysna; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Approximately flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or emarginate and slightly irregular, postero-dorsal comer angular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu- lum: Homomorph, single raised, fused colliculum, angularly fun¬ nel shaped. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Narrow, flared slightly anteriorly. Cauda: Flared, approximately triangular and blunt. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:2, 1:1.3, 1:0.9, 1:0.9, 1:1; (R) 1:1.4, 1:1.7, 1:1.7, 1:1.4, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Shallow groove near margin. Ventral depression: Shallow groove near margin, poste¬ rior groove along posterior margin. Rostrum: Absent or minute. Antirostrum: Absent or short and broad. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Cynoglossus cf. capensis - Mozambique form, SSF No. 261.- PLATE 143 MATERIAL: 2/2 (3.0, 4.2 mm OD, 162, 182mmTL),PEM 13039, 12886; Mozambique; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: (R) bulbous; (L) indented in centre. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Approxi¬ mately flat and slightly irregular, postero-dorsal comer angled. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial or pseudo-ostial, heterosulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Homomorph, single, raised and fused colliculum, tapered funnel shaped. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Very nar¬ row, does not flare anteriorly. Cauda: Triangular and blunt. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:1.1, 1:0.9; (R) 1:1, 1:1.4. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Dorsal area raised with groove-like depressions around it. Ventral depression: Ventral and posterior areas raised with groove-like depressions around them. Rostrum: Absent. Anti- rostrum: Absent or short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Absent or very narrow, notch absent. Cynoglossus marleyi, SSF No. 261.8 PLATE 143 & 144 DISTRIBUTION: Durban to Delagoa Bay. Attains 35 cm. MATERIAL: 377 (2.7-3. 1 mm OD, 198-282 mm TL), PEM 12835 (RUSI 34159), 12987, 12934; Mozambique; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Oval to roundly rectangular. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, single collicu¬ lum depressed and approximately oval. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus an oval cleft. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or a lowridge along entire sulcus, poorly developed anteriorly. Crista inferior: Poorly developed or a low ridge along sulcus. Dorsal depression: Continuous with ventral depression, forming a horse-shoe. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Cynoglossus Zanzibar ensis, SSF No. 261.9 PLATE 144 DISTRIBUTION: Western Cape province to Kenya; common off the Cape south coast. Occurs in deeper water than C. capensis in the Cape (MJS). Attains 32 cm. MATERIAL: 7/127 (3.7-6.6 mm OD, 167-375 mm TL), PEM 14431 (RUSI 34095), 15062, 12684, 3017, 3766, 14162 (RUSI 34095), 15035, [14161 (RUSI 34095), 9298 (RUSI 37475)]; Cape south and west coasts; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Rounded-triangular. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral convex. Lateral sur¬ face: (R) bulbous; (L) indented in centre. Dorsal margin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or slightly rounded, may be emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acus¬ ticus: Pseudo-ostial or ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Homo- moiph, single raised, fused colliculum, may be depressed in centre in large otoliths (c. 6.6mmOD), angularly funnel shaped. Pseudo¬ colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Straight and narrow, poorly defined at tip and may penetrate anterior wall. Cauda: Triangular and blunt. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:1.3; (R) 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.3, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1, 1:1.6. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area raised with groove -like depression around it. Ventral depression: Ventral area and posterior area raised with grooves around them. Rostrum: Absent or minute and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or broad and rounded. Excisura: Absent or minute, notch very shallow, angle wide. SO LEI DAE Nelson No. 437 Family characteristics: Eight species described. Otoliths oval or oblong, up to at least 6. 1 mm OD. Archaesulcoid, pseudo-archae- sulcoid or heterosulcoid. Usually with mesial or pseudo-ostial openings, may be ostial. Homomorph with similar or fused colli¬ culi, rarely heteromorph. Sulcus poorly defined, dorsal and ventral depressions often horseshoe shaped around sulcus and joined posteriorly. Key la. Otolith twisted along its length; otolith shape rounded-rectangular . 2 lb. Otolith flat, not twisted; otolith shape oval to oblong, may be notched . 3 2a. Otolith elongate; postero-dorsal comer of otolith protrudes, may be angular; posterior margin of otolith emarginate or flat; dorsal and ventral areas rugose .... . Austroglossus pectoralis 262.3 2b. Otolith more rounded than previous sp.; postero-dorsal comer of otolith rounded or slightly protruding; dorsal and ventral areas not rugose . . Austroglossus microlepis 262.2 227 3a. Sulcus heterosulcoid; sulcus opening ostial; colliculi heteromorph . 4 3b. Sulcus archaesulcoid or pseudo-archaesulcoid; sulcus opening mesial or pseudo-ostial; colliculi homomorph or heteromorph . 5 4a. Sulcus slit-like; postero-dorsal comer of otolith produced; ostium narrow but relatively deep; cauda slit-like; otolith shape approximately oval; dorsal and ventral grooves near margin absent . . Synaptura marginata 262.14 4b. Sulcus elongate and shallow; postero-dorsal comer of otolith not produced; ostium relatively shallow; caudal tip rounded and relatively wide; otolith approximately oblong, tapered anteriorly; dorsal and ventral grooves near margins . Synapturichthys kleini 262.15 5a. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith distinctly produced and rounded; posterior margin of otolith very emarginate; ventral comer of otolith produced and rounded; dorsal depression absent .... Soleafulvomarginata 262.13 5b. Postero-dorsal comer of otolith not produced; posterior margin of otolith not distinctly emarginate; postero-ventral corner of otolith not produced . 6 6a. Crista superior and crista inferior well developed or raised as very low, narrow ridges; dorsal and ventral depressions elongate and shallow, not joined as a horseshoe shape . Aesopia comuta 262.1 6b. Crista superior and crista inferior broad and distinctly ridge-like; dorsal and ventral depressions joined as a horseshoe shape . 7 7a. Otolith shape oval to oblong; posterior margin of otolith slightly rounded; ventral margin rounded; sulcus oval; cristae rounded posteriorly at caudal tip . . Solea bleekeri 262.12 7b. Otolith shape approximately oval; posterior margin of otolith flat or emarginate; ventral margin of otolith rounded posteriorly, tapered anteriorly; sulcus may be narrow anteriorly; cristae blunt and square posteriorly . Heteromycterus capensis 262.5 Aesopia cornuta, SSF No. 262.1 PLATE 144 DISTRIBUTION: Natal to Mozambique; Red Sea, India, Japan. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.4 mm OD, 135 mm TL), PEM 0453; Durban; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex to flat, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin; Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Pseudo-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very low fused colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus oval and elongate, poorly defined anteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum: Ab¬ sent. Crista superior: Well developed to low rounded ridge along entire sulcus, more raised in right otolith. Crista inferior: Well developed to low ridge along sulcus, more developed in right otolith. Dorsal depression: Elongate and shallow. Ventral de¬ pression: Elongate and shallow. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Austroglossus microlepis, SSF No. 262.2 PLATE 144 & 145 DISTRIBUTION: From northern Namibia to False Bay. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 6/40 (2.15-4.8 mm OD, 145-365 mm TL), PEM 12177, 12174, 3867 (RUSI 12029), 12087, 12085, 12088; Cape west coast; Id. GJBR, MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Lateral surface: Otolith slightly twisted longitudinally. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, flat or emarginate; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior mar¬ gin: Slightly rounded or oblique and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial or pseudo-ostial, may appear ostial if uncoated, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, a single variable, in¬ dented colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda; Undifferentiated, sulcus elongate, irregular waisting, poorly defined. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent. Collum; Absent. Crista superior; Poorly or well developed along sulcus length. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along length of sulcus. Dorsal depression: Elongate, horseshoe shaped (deeper in left otoliths) joining ventral depression. Rostrum: Absent. Antiros¬ trum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Austroglossus pectoralis, SSF No. 262.3 PLATE 145 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from the Cape to Natal. Attains 58 cm. MATERIAL: 6/55 (2.2-6. 1 mmOD, 130-412mmTL), PEM 4574 (RUSI 13264), 12506, 12509 (RUSI 28519), 3315, 15037, 2985; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape; Oval becoming oblong. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial flat, - Lateral flat. Lateral surface: Slightly twisted longitudinally. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregu¬ lar. Posterior margin: Flat or emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial or pseudo-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colli¬ culum: Heteromorph, irregular low colliculi, may have posterior pit and may be joined. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus oval and depressed with irregular surface. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent but irregular waisting. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed or a very low ridge along entire sulcus, absent anteriorly. Crista inferior: Poorly developed or low ridge along entire sulcus. Dor¬ sal depression: Horseshoe shaped (deeper in left otoliths), joining ventral depression. Dorsal area has ridge, dorsal and ventral areas may be rugose. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Ex¬ cisura: Absent. Heteromycteris capensis , SSF No. 262.5 PLATE 145 DISTRIBUTION: Known only from Walvis Bay to Maputo. At¬ tains 15 cm. MATERIAL: 5/9 (0.9-2.05 mm OD, 43-106 mm TL), PEM 2160, 6057, 4575 (RUSI 13272), 4585, 4019; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape; Approximately oval. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral slightly concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded, flat or emarginate; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin; Rounded, tapering anteriorly and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or emar¬ ginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, pseudo- ostial or ostial, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, low colliculi with pit, may be fused. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate and poorly defined, may be indistinguishable from cauda. Cauda: Short with rounded tip and pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Absent or with slight constriction on inner cristae. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or very low ridge along ehtire sulcus, absent at anterior tip. Crista inferior: Well developed or low ridge along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Horseshoe shaped, joins ventral depression. Rostrum: If present, small and rounded. Antirostrum: If present, small and 228 rounded. Excisura: Absent or if present, narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Solea bleekeri , SSF No. 262.12 PLATE 146 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to Maputo. Attains 17 cm. MATERIAL: 6/21 (1.6-2.8 mm OD, 78-128 mm TL), PEM3740, 15055 & 15054 (both RUSI 35564), 15290 (RUSI 36873), 12512, 12513, [4553 (RUSI 17032), 12511 (RUSI 28481), 15289 & 15291 (both RUSI 36873)]; Cape south coast and off Matikulu R.; Id. MJS, PCH, MEA. Otolith shape: Oval to oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Usually mesial or pseudo-ostial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct, may be fused or separate low colliculi. Pseudocollicu- lum: Absent. Ostium and Cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus is elongate with one or two depressions. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Not constricted. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Low ridge, poorly developed or absent at anterior. Crista inferior: Low ridge along entire sulcus, joins crista superior posteriorly. Dorsal depression: Horseshoe shaped, joining ventral depression. Ros¬ trum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Solea fulvomarginata, SSF No. 262.13 PLATE 146 DISTRIBUTION: False Bay to Transkei. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (4.35 mm OD, 265 mm TL), PEM 6183; Algoa Bay; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately oval, emarginate posteriorly. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded or flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate, crenate and irregular, postero-dor- sal comer extended. Sulcus acusticus: Mesial, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph with two colliculi depressed in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda: Undifferentiated, sulcus narrow and oval with two pits. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: Not constricted. Collum: Low, between the depressions. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent, two grooves, one in mid area, one atmargin. Ventral depression: Shallow depression in mid-area. Rostrum: Absent. Antirostrum: Absent. Excisura: Absent. Synaptura marginata, SSF No. 262.14 PLATE 146 DISTRIBUTION: Knysna to Delagoa Bay; Japan. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (3.4 mm OD, 290 mm TL), PEM 0285; Algoa Bay; Id. GJBR. Otolith shape: Approximately oval, postero-dorsal comer extend¬ ed. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Later¬ al concave. Dorsal margin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Oblique and emarginate, slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, both colliculi low. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Long, narrow and moderately deep. Cauda: Shallower, short and oval. Ostio- caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.3. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle acute. Synapturichthys kleini, SSF No. 262.15 PLATE 146 DISTRIBUTION: Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean to South Africa and round the south coast to Durban. Attains 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (7.6 mm OD, 310 mm TL), PEM 2170; Eastern Cape; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Oblong. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculp¬ ture, crenate or slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, both colliculi very low. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, irregular margin, colliculum depressed in centre. Cauda: Rounded, oval and deep in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: (L) 1:0.6; (R) 1:0.4. Collum: Very low. Crista superior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed below ostium, low ridge under cauda. Dorsal depression: Horseshoe shaped joining ven¬ tral depression, shallow posteriorly. Groove around dorsal and ventral margins. Rostrum: Short and sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Short and sharply rounded. Excisura: Narrow, notch very shallow, angle wide. ORDER TETRAODONTI FORMES TRIACANTHODIDAE Nelson No. 438 Family characteristics: Based on the single species available, otoliths hour-glass shaped and small, up to c. 1.6 mm OD. Het¬ erosulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Ostium small, indented, caudal straight and poorly defined. Heteromorph, posterior colli¬ culum indistinct, anterior depressed. Crista inferior under neck knob-like, area near margin depressed and flat. Macrorhamphosodes sp., SSF No. 265.- PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Two species in this genus known off southern Africa, M. uradoi and M. platycheilus . (Tyler 1983, pers. comm.). MATERIAL: 1/1 (1 .45 mm OD, 107 mm SL), PEM 5059; Kenya; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thick in centre, margins thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregu¬ lar. Ventral margin: Well rounded, slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio- caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Heteromorph, anterior small and depressed, posterior elongate and indistinct. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Oval, reduced, narrow and depressed. Cauda: Elongate and straight, poorly defined. Ostio-caudal dif¬ ferentiation: Slightly dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.8. Collum: Absent, step up to cauda. Crista superior: Moderately well developed or rounded ridge along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed as rounded knob at neck and anterior cauda, poor under ostium. Dorsal depression: Elongate, approximately horizontal, covering most of dorsal area. Ventral depression: Entire ventral area depressed under crista. Rostrum: Large, broad and bluntly rounded. Antirostrum: Large, broad and bluntly rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. BALISTIDAE Nelson No. 440 Family characteristics: Seven species described. Otoliths very small and delicate, up to c. 2.8 mm OD. Shapes generally ovate, but irregular, rarely discoid. Heterosulcoid, with ostial or ostio- caudal openings. Sulcus very deep, usually with collum. Ostium and cauda flared, reduced and deep. Heteromorph or colliculi not visible. 229 Key la. Otolith shape discoid; sulcus deep but collum absent; rostrum broad and sharply rounded, not tapered . . Balistapus undulatus 263.2 lb. Otolith shape ovate; sulcus deep with distinct collum; rostrum tapered or elongate . 2 2a. Rostrum elongate with rounded tip; otolith axe-shaped; flattened ventral area smooth . . Canthidermis maculatus 263.6 2b. Rostrum tapered and pointed; otolith ovate, not axe¬ shaped; ventral area depressed and irregular . 3 3a. Ventral margin of otolith distinctly keeled; rostrum narrow, elongate and pointed . . Rhinecanthus aculeatus 263.13 3b. Ventral margin of otolith rounded, slightly keeled or flat; rostrum tapered and pointed . 4 4a. Sulcus opening ostio-caudal . 5 4b. Sulcus opening ostial . 6 5a. Crista inferior extends to posterior margin of otolith; ventral margin of otolith flat; floor of cauda not rugose . Sufflamen chrysopterus 263.16 5b. Crista inferior ends short of posterior margin of otolith; ventral margin of otolith oblique; floor of cauda rugose . Sufflamenfraenatus263.il 6a. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded; antirostrum broad and sharply rounded; ventral area of otolith smooth or slightly crystalline . Melichthys indicus 263.7 6b. Dorsal margin of otolith emarginate anteriorly; antirostrum narrow, flexed dorsally; ventral area of otolith crystalline with elongate crystals . . Odonus niger 263. 10 Balistapus undulatus, SSF No. 263.2 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Red Sea and Indo-West Pacific, south to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.45 mm OD, 220 mm TL), 1230H; Red Sea; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Discoid. Thickness: Thick. Form: - Mesial very convex, - Lateral slightly concave. Dorsal margin: Well rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, may be notched and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly flattened and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul- coid. Colliculum: Sulcus very deep, colliculi not visible. Pseudo- colliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, very reduced, lying mainly along margin of rostrum. Cauda: Deep, with steep walls, notched ventrally and flexed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ven- trally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Present, very low. Crista superior: Well developed over ostium and posterior cauda, low ridge over anterior cauda, opening onto posterior wall. Crista inferior: Well developed from ostium to flexion, ridge-like from flexion. Dorsal depression: Shallow groove over posterior crista. Ventral depression: Postero-ventral depression from cau¬ dal tip onto ventral margin along posterior margin. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Large, broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Canthidermis maculatus, SSF No. 263.6 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: All warm and temperate oceans. In this area from the mouth of the Orange River to Natal. Attains over 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.05 mm OD, 147 mm TL), PEM 15441 (RUSI 40559); Sardinia Bay; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate or axe-like. Thickness: Moderately thick. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral approximately flat. Lateral surface: Elongate pit at nucleus. Dorsal margin: Raised and slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Flat to sinuate and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, colliculi indented, margins raised. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared and narrow, lying along margin of ros¬ trum, depressed in centre. Cauda: Flared, depressed in centre. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Poorly developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Narrow high ridge from ostium to cauda. Dorsal depression: Shallow, near margin. Ventral depression: Entire ventral area depressed. Rostrum: Large, elongate and rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. Melichthys indicus, SSF No. 263.7 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indian Ocean, south to Sodwana Bay. Attains c. 25 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.15 mm OD, fish not measured), 0734H; Sodwana Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick posteriorly, rostrum thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral concave. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded, angled anteriorly and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Hat or slightly rounded and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Colliculi not visible. Pseudocolliculum: Small, be¬ low collum. Ostium: Deep, flared, very reduced, narrow and lying mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Rounded, deepest closest to collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Low, wall-like. Crista superior: Well developed along length of sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed. Dorsal depression: Absent, area rough and crystalline. Ventral depression: Absent. Rostrum: Large, taper¬ ing and pointed, dorsal edge curves laterally. Antirostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Odonus niger, SSF No. 263.10 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Widespread in tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Durban rarely to Port Alfred. Attains 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.75 mm OD, 33 mm TL), 0733H; Sodwana Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Ovate. Thickness: Moderately thick posteriorly, rostrum thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly, emarginate anteriorly; sculpture, ir¬ regular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Poste¬ rior margin: Slightly rounded or flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostial, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No colliculi visible. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, reduced, flared and lying mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Hared with broadly rounded tip close to posterior margin, deepest close to collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.5. Collum: Low, wall-like. Crista superior: Well developed, poorly developed near caudal tip. Crista infe¬ rior: Well developed under ostium, ridge-like under cauda to tip. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Slit-like, irregu¬ lar groove under crista. Rostrum: Large, tapering and pointed, curves laterally. Antirostrum: Large, tapering and pointed, dor- sally flexed. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Rhinecanthus aculeatus, SSF No. 263.13 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Common in tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.5 mm OD, 68 mm TL), PEM 7705 (RUSI 28476); ORI; Id. PCH. 230 Otolith shape: Ovate, deeply keeled ventrally. Thickness: Moderately thin, rostrum thin. Form: - Mesial convex. Lateral slightly concave or flat. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculp¬ ture, irregular. Ventral margin: Keeled and irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-cau- dal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: No colliculi visible. Pseudocol- iiculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep and reduced, mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Flared, deepest at collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Col¬ lum: Low, wall-like. Crista superior: Well developed or irregular ridge, absent over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Well devel¬ oped or ridge-like, poorly developed near tip. Dorsal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ventral depression: Shallow depression below crista. Rostrum: Elongate, tapered and pointed. Antiros¬ trum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Sufflamen chrysopterus, SSF No. 263.16 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Common in Indo-West Pacific, south to Dur¬ ban. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.85 mm OD, 138 mm TL), 1390H; Kosi Bay; Id. PCH. Otolith shape: Approximately ovate (dorsal margin broken). Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly, damaged anteriorly; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Approximately flat and irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Hetero- morph, depressed in centre, margins slightly raised. Pseudocolli- culum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flared and lies mainly on rostrum. Cauda: Flared, opens widely to posterior margin, deepest close to collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorsally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Low and wall-like. Crista superior: Narrow ridge along entire sulcus. Crista infe¬ rior: Narrow ridge along entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Deep, above crista. Ventral depression: Entire ventral area depressed. Rostrum: Large, tapering and pointed. Antirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. Sufflamen fraenatus, SSF No. 263.17 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, south to Natal. Attains nearly 40 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.6 mm OD, 189 mm TL), 0952H; Eilat, Israel; Id. tentative, IP. Otolith shape: Triangular-ovate. Thickness: Thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised posteriorly; sculpture, very irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly keeled and irregular. Posterior margin: Approximately flat and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het- eromorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, mainly on rostrum, deep at collum. Cauda: Flared, ventral wall of cauda foreshortened, larger area than ostium, floor slightly rugose. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly dorso-ventrally constricted on inner wall of crista. Ostium/cauda: 1:1. Collum: Low, wall -like. Crista superior: Ridge-like over entire sulcus, curves dorsally over posterior cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, uneven, absent at postero-ventral edge. Dorsal depression: Large, most of dorsal area depressed and irregular. Ventral depression: Ventral area depressed and irregular. Rostrum: Moderately large, tapering and pointed. An¬ tirostrum: Small and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. BALISTIDAE Nelson No. 440 (MONACANTHIDAE in SSF) Family characteristics: Four species described. Otoliths some¬ what similar to those of Oreosomatidae, although generally smaller. Approximately hour-glass in shape, very small, up to c. 1.8mmOD. Homosulcoid with ostio-caudal opening. Ostium and cauda flared with homomorph or indistinct colliculi. Key la. Otolith shape triangular to hour-glass; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith rounded and almost entire; most of ventral area flat and depressed . . Aluterus monoceros 264.1 lb. Otolith shape hour-glass to ovate; dorsal and ventral margins of otolith rounded or flat and irregular; ventral area irregular . 2 2a. Dorsal margin of otolith rounded, slightly irregular; crista inferior a broad ridge, narrow anteriorly; ventral area of otolith irregular and uneven . . Cantherhines pardalis 264.6 2b. Dorsal margin of otolith approximately flat, horizontal or angled, irregular or lobed . 3 3a. Dorsal margin of otolith flat, angled and lobed; crista inferior a broad ridge . . Thamnaconus modestoides 264. 16 3b. Dorsal margin of otolith approximately horizontal; crista inferior well developed but uneven . 4 4a. Colliculum homomorph; ostium and cauda not depressed; crista superior poorly developed . . Thamnaconus fajardoi 264.15 4b. Colliculi indistinct; ostium and cauda deeply depressed near collum; crista superior ridge-like but with irregular breaks in it . Pervagor janthinosoma 264.1 1 Aluterus monoceros, SSF No. 264.1 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Worldwide in tropical/subtropical seas; from Saldanha Bay to Beira. Attains 75 cm. MATERIAL: 4/6 (1.05-1.45 mm OD, 453-591 mm TL), PEM 15333, 14810, 15332 (RUSI 36884), 15331 (RUSI 36883); Algoa Bay; Id. MJS, MEA. Otolith shape: Triangular to hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, approximately entire. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Strongly emar¬ ginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosul¬ coid. Colliculum: Homomorph, very indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Larger than cauda, deepest closest to collum, widely flared. Cauda: Widely flared, deepest close to collum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1, 1:1.5, 1:0.7, 1:0.8. Collum: Low, wall-like. Crista superior: Usually ridge-like, diagonal over ostium and cauda, absent at neck, but degree of development variable. Crista inferior: Ridge-like under ostium and cauda. Dorsal depression: Dorsal area depressed in triangular shape, may penetrate cristae over collum. Ventral depression: Ventral area depressed, deepest under crista. Rostrum: Moderate, rounded or sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or short and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Cantherhines pardalis, SSF No. 264.6 PLATE 147 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical/subtropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Mossel Bay. Attains 20 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.45 mm OD, 179 mm TL), 1008H; Eilat; Id. TH. 231 Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Raised, slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and very irregular. Posterior margin: Deeply notched and irregu¬ lar. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hares widely dorsally. Cauda: Hares widely dorsally and reduced. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally constricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Low, wall-like. Crista superior: Uneven diagonal ridges over ostium and cauda. Crista inferior: Ridge-like becoming poorly developed at posterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Triangular above cristae with horizontal ridge. Ven¬ tral depression: Ventral area depressed and uneven. Rostrum: Large, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle wide. Pervagor janthinosoma (P. melanocephalus in SSF), SSF No. 264.11 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Attains 16 cm. MATERIAL: 4/4 (0,85-1.7 mm OD, 74-100 mm TL), 1009H, 072 1H, PEM 2648, 7706 (RUSI 28480); ORI, Sodwana and Eilat; Id. MIS, PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin and deli¬ cate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral flat. Dorsal margin: Hat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, notched and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, indistinct colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Re¬ duced, widely flared dorsally. Cauda: Reduced, widely flared dorsally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally con¬ stricted internally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1, 1:1.2, 1:1.1. Col¬ lum: Wall-like. Crista superior: Ridge-like, variable with breaks in it. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, broad and uneven. Dorsal depression: Moderately deep from anterior to posterior margins. Ventral depression: Margin depressed, surface irregular. Ros¬ trum: Broad, may be notched and pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch varies (deep or shallow) and angle wide. Thamnaconus fajardoi, SSF No. 264.15 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Mauritius, Madagascar and southern Mozam¬ bique Channel. Attains 22 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.8 mm OD, 191 mm TL), PEM 15007 (RUSI 35569); Transkei; Id. MIS, MEA. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial convex, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Raised, flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Slightly rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Deeply notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, single fused colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Reduced, flared dorsally. Cauda: Hared, larger and deeper than ostium. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorsally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista superi¬ or: Poorly developed along sulcus. Crista inferior: Well developed to ridge-like and uneven. Dorsal depression: Shallow, close to margin. Ventral depression: Ventral area unevenly de¬ pressed. Rostrum: Notched, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Short, very broad and rounded. Excisura: Very wide, notch shallow, angle wide. Thamnaconus modestoides, SSF No. 264.16 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Indian Ocean, south to Algoa Bay; also north¬ western Australia and lapan. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.35 mm OD, 150 mm TL), PEM 15563; Red Sea; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Thin and delicate. Form: - Mesial irregular, - Lateral slightly convex. Lateral surface: Depressed pit at nucleus. Dorsal margin: Hat but angled; sculp¬ ture, lobed. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, homosulcoid. Colliculum: Indistinct. Pseudocolliculum: Ab¬ sent. Ostium: Hared and depressed. Cauda: Hared and de¬ pressed. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Dorso-ventrally constricted internally. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3. Collum: Low and broad. Crista superior: Poorly developed along the entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, broad and uneven. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Shallow, oval and large. Ventral depression: Ventral area under crista depressed. Rostrum: Broad and rounded, may be notched. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderately deep, angle wide. OSTRACIIDAE Nelson No. 441 Family characteristics: Two species described. Otoliths very small, up to c. 1.5 mm OD. Tall-rectangular or -ovate shaped, archaesulcoid or heterosulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Sulcus slightly flared anteriorly, narrows posteriorly with deep pit in centre. Homomorph or heteromorph, colliculi may be indistinct. Key la. Rostrum rounded; colliculum indistinct; crista superior absent . Lactoria fomasini 266.5 lb. Rostrum sharply rounded; colliculum with raised margin; crista superior well developed . . Ostracion cubicus 266.6 Lactoria fornasini, SSF No. 266.5 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, quite common along tropical east African coast. Attains 23 cm or more. MATERIAL; 1/1 (1.0 mm OD, 63 mm TL), PEM 15396 (RUSI 40577); Bazaruto; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Tall-rectangular. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial approximately flat, - Lateral approximately flat. Dorsal margin: Hat or slightly rounded; sculpture, entire. Ventral mar¬ gin: Hat, oblique and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Slightly emarginate and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused, in¬ distinct colliculum with pit in centre. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium and cauda; Undifferentiated, sulcus slightly flared ante¬ riorly, narrows posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Ab¬ sent. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Moderately well developed along the sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent. Ventral depression: Ventral area slightly depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Small, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderate, notch shallow, angle wide. Ostracion cubicus, SSF No. 266.6 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific and Red Sea, east coast to Knysna. Attains 45 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1 .4 mm OD, 96 mm TL), 1006H; Eilat; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Tall-ovate. Thickness: Moderate. Form: -Mesial convex, - Lateral flat or slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Angled and irregular. Posterior margin: Hat, notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosulcoid. Colliculum: Het¬ eromorph, margin raised, indented in colliculum centre, anterior and posterior fused. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Hared ventrally and deep. Cauda: Pit in anterior, shallow and narrow posteriorly. Ostio-caudal differentiation: Slightly ventrally con¬ stricted. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.1. Collum: Absent. Crista supe¬ rior: Well developed along entire sulcus. Crista inferior: Poorly developed under ostium, well developed under cauda. Dorsal depression: Absent, area uneven. Ventral depression: Absent, 232 area uneven. Rostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Anti¬ rostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Moderately wide, notch moderate, angle wide. TETRAODONTIDAE Nelson No. 443 Family characteristics: Eight species described. This family ex¬ hibits considerable ontogeneric and intraspecific variation in otolith shape, texture and development of features. A key is not provided as direct comparison with material and consultation of photographs is the best method of identification. Otoliths hour¬ glass shaped or tall-ovate, up to c. 2 mm OD. Sulcus pseudo-ar- chaesulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Colliculum fused, often with pits. Crista superior absent, crista inferior very high, ridge¬ like and broad. Amblyrhynchotes honckenii, SSF No. 268.1 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific from South Africa to China, common from the Cape to Natal. Attains 30 cm. MATERIAL: 7/11 (1.05-1.8 mm OD, 120-193 mm TL), 0597H, PEM 15050 (RUSI 35568), 15048, 0067, 15049, 15052, 15053; Cape south coast, AlgoaBay and Dwesa, Transkei; Id. MJS, GJBR, PCH, TH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded or flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum with anterior and poste¬ rior pits, may be hidden by raised crista inferior. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Pit in ostium usually larger than caudal pit. Cauda: Has colliculum with oval pit, opening into wide notch. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.3, 1:1.2, 1:2, 1:0.6, 1:1.1, 1:1.5, 1:0.8. Col- lum: Colliculum between pits collum-like. Crista superior: Poorly or well developed. Crista inferior: Ridge- like, fan-like and uneven, may hide sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, area reduced. Ventral depression: Groove-like below crista. Ros¬ trum: Small, narrow and pointed or sharply rounded. Note pseudo-rostrum blunter than rostrum. Antirostrum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. NOTE: Considerable intra-specific variation in texture of the surface and development of the features, even between left and right otoliths of the same specimen. Arothron hispidus, SSF No. 268.2 PLATE 148 DISTRIBUTION: Tropical Indo-West Pacific, south to Knysna. Attains c. 50 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (1.4 mm OD, 168 mm TL), PEM 14845; ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Approximately tall-ovate. Thickness: Moderately thin and delicate. Form: - Mesial flat or slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, serrate or very irregular. Ventral margin: Well rounded, serrate or irregular. Posterior margin: Emarginate and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Ho¬ momorph, single fused colliculum, very irregular with anterior and posterior pits. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared on rostrum, deep with pit dorsal to colliculum. Cauda: Flared, with pit dorsal to collicular pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8. Collum: Colliculum be¬ tween pits is collum-like. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and broad, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Area uneven. Ventral depression: Groove-like de¬ pression under crista, area depressed. Rostrum: Elongate, taper¬ ing and pointed, curves dorsally. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. Arothron stellatus, SSF No. 268.8 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, occasionally reaches Knysna. Attains at least 90 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.0 mm OD, 355 mm TL), PEM 14844; ORI; Id. MJS. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderate but irregular and thin in centre. Form: - Mesial slightly convex, - Lateral flat or slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Flat or slightly rounded; sculpture, irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, colliculi with distinct walls but otherwise reduced. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Opens into narrow notch, flared. Cauda: Colliculum with deep pit, flares onto pseudo-rostrum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed or uneven ridge. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, broad and uneven along the entire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, area uneven and reduced. Ventral depression: Groove-like, undercutting crista. Rostrum: Large, broad and blunt. Antirostrum: Broad and pointed. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle wide. Canthigaster solandri, SSF No. 268.15 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Hawaii, Indo-West Pacific south to Port Eliza¬ beth. Attains 1 1 cm. MATERIAL: 1/4 ( 1 . 1 mm OD, 108 mm TL), 1 282H; Eilat; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded, angled and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Collicu¬ lum: Heteromorph, indistinct and very low anterior and posterior colliculi. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Deep, flares widely onto rostrum, ending indistinctly posteriorly. Cauda: Narrow, short and distinguishable only by shape of narrow colli¬ culum. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.3. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Well developed. Crista inferior: Broad, tapering, ridge-like along en¬ tire sulcus. Dorsal depression: Absent, dorsal area reduced. Ven¬ tral depression: Groove-like under crista, margin depressed. Rostrum: Broad, tapering and bluntly pointed. Antirostrum: Short, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch deep, angle acute. Lagocephalus ?guentheri, SSF No. 268.19 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Known in this area from off Tugela River to Algoa Bay. If synonymy correct, also occurs of Brazil and Japan. Attains at least 41 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (0.55, 1.1 mm OD, 98, 245 mm TL), 1393H, PEM 0438; Durban; Id. GJBR, OG. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded or slightly rounded; sculpture, dentate or irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and entire. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, heterosul- coid, becoming pseudo-archaesulcoid with growth of colliculum. Colliculum: Homomorph, single fused colliculum with anterior and posterior pits. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared, larger than cauda with pit anteriorly. Cauda: Less flared, with pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.2, 1:1. Collum: Flat area present in juveniles (c. 0.5 mm OD), lost in adults with growth of colliculum. Crista superior: Poorly developed. Crista inferior: Ridge-like in mid-sulcus, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, area reduced. Ventral depression: Margin depressed. Rostrum: Large, broad and 233 sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, broad and blunt. Ex- cisura: Wide, notch moderately shallow, angle wide. Lagocephalus inermis, SSF No. 268.20 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-Pacific, south to Algoa Bay. Attains 56 cm. MATERIAL: 1/1 (0.9 mm OD, 142 mm TL), 0035H; St Francis Bay; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderately thin. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Slightly rounded; sculpture, crenate or irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo- archae- sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, anterior and posterior colliculi fused. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Flared widely dor- sally with colliculum and pit within colliculum. Cauda: Elongate, irregular colliculum with pit and dip. Ostio-caudal differentia¬ tion: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:2.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Very poorly developed. Crista inferior: Ridge¬ like, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, area reduced. Ventral depression: Ventral area depressed and uneven. Ros¬ trum: Short, broad and sharply rounded. Antirostrum: Short, very broad and sharply rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moder¬ ately shallow, angle wide. Lagocephalus sceleratus, SSF No. 268.23 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Indo-West Pacific, also between Cape and Na¬ tal. Attains at least 85 cm. MATERIAL: 2/2 (1.1, 1.5 mm OD, 135, 443 mm TL), 0034H, PEM 15375; Cape St Francis and St Francis Bay; Id. MJS, TH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal mar¬ gin: Flat; sculpture, slightly irregular. Ventral margin: Rounded and slightly irregular. Posterior margin: Notched or flat and slightly irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archae- sulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused colliculi. Pseudocolli¬ culum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate, pit in colliculum, opens into narrower notch than cauda. Cauda: Flares, elongate and has pit. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:0.8, 1:0.7. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Ridge-like in mid-sulcus, absent at extremes. Dorsal depression: Absent, area very reduced. Ventral depression: Groove-like under crista, margin depressed. Rostrum: Broad, elongate and pointed. Antirostrum: Very broad, short and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch moderate, angle acute. Sphoeroides pachygaster, SSF No. 268.25 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Circumglobal, a deep water species from the Cape to Beira. Attains 26 cm. MATERIAL: 5/10 (0.8-1.0 mm OD, 171-302 mm TL), PEM 15043 (RUSI 35577), 15041, 15042, 15044, 15058; Cape south coast; Id. MJS, PCH. Otolith shape: Hour-glass. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial concave, - Lateral convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded or lobed; sculpture, entire. Ventral margin: Rounded, cfenate or irregular. Posterior margin: Notched and slightly irregular. Sul¬ cus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo-archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph, fused colliculum with pit in centre. Pseudocollicu¬ lum: Absent. Ostium: Elongate raised colliculum, angled dor- sally, may penetrate the excisura. Cauda: Flares with pit in anterior of colliculum, opens onto more notched posterior margin. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constrictions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.4, 1:1.6, 1:2.6, 1:2.4, 1:2. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Ridge-like, short and wide under ostium and neck, absent under posterior cauda. Dorsal depression: Ab¬ sent, area reduced. Ventral depression: Ventral area depressed. Rostrum: Short, broad and rounded or sharply rounded. Antiros¬ trum: Absent or broad and blunt. Excisura: Wide, notch if present, very shallow, angle wide. DIODONTIDAE Nelson No. 444 Family characteristics: Based on the single specimen available, otoliths tall, approximately oval, up to c. 3 mm OD. Pseudo-ar¬ chaesulcoid with ostio-caudal openings. Homomorph, fused col¬ liculum with anterior and posterior pits. Excisura wide, notch very shallow. Diodon hystrix, SSF No. 269.6 PLATE 149 DISTRIBUTION: Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park to Umtata River; probably all along our coasts. Circumtropical. Attains 60 cm or more. MATERIAL: 1/1 (2.4 mm OD, 240 mm TL), 0033H; St Francis Bay; Id. TH. Otolith shape: Tall oval or discoid. Thickness: Moderate. Form: - Mesial slightly concave, - Lateral slightly convex. Dorsal margin: Rounded; sculpture, dentate or irregular. Ventral mar¬ gin: Rounded and irregular. Posterior margin: Flat or slightly rounded and irregular. Sulcus acusticus: Ostio-caudal, pseudo- archaesulcoid. Colliculum: Homomorph with fused, irregular colliculum. Pseudocolliculum: Absent. Ostium: Poorly defined with shallow pit, colliculum well developed ventrally. Cauda: Flared posteriorly to margin, colliculum with deep pit and well developed ventrally. Ostio-caudal differentiation: No constric¬ tions. Ostium/cauda: 1:1.5. Collum: Absent. Crista superior: Absent. Crista inferior: Ridge-like and uneven. Dorsal depres¬ sion: Absent, dorsal area reduced. Ventral depression: Ventral area with irregular depressions. Rostrum: Absent or minute, very broad and rounded. Antirostrum: Absent or minute, broad and rounded. Excisura: Wide, notch, if present, very shallow and angle acute. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This atlas was made possible by the assistance of dozens of fishers who donated specimens, and numerous colleagues from several institutions who contributed material or exper¬ tise. Dr G.J.B. Ross initiated the Port Elizabeth Museum collection of otoliths in 1972 on realising the importance of these structures in prey identification. His interest was en¬ couraged by the late John Fitch who also contributed several specimens to our collection. Numerous local workers contributed significantly to this study. Dr P.C. Heemstra of the JLBSII donated numer¬ ous otoliths, checked thousands of fish identifications and invited us to participate in collecting expeditions. The late Prof. M.M. Smith, Dr M.E. Anderson and O.Gon confirmed identifications. Other members of the institute, particularly B. Ranchod, E. Matama and J.Holiday, assisted in locating RUSI specimens. Dr P.A. Hulley of the SAM contributed otolith material from several cruises, allowed us to remove otoliths from numerous specimens and identified hundreds of fishes, particularly the Myc tophi dae. Dr L.J.V. Com- pagno, Mss. L. Hoensen, M. van der Merwe and Mr C. Goliath helped on cruises or ashore locating specimens in their collection. Dr T. Iwamoto visited South Africa in 1992 and, with M.E. Anderson, resolved numerous problems with the Macrouridae. He kindly checked numerous voucher specimens and either verified their identification or cor¬ rected misidentifications. R.P van der Elst, S. Chater, P. Garrett, J. Ballard and S. Fennessy of the ORI saved hundreds of subtropical and 234 tropical fish for the otolith collection and the JLBSI. Dr L.E. Beckley contributed material from intertidal collections of fish. Staff and students of the DIFS, RU have contributed in various ways. Dr M. Griffiths kindly checked the collec¬ tions for the two kob species and provided information on their otoliths. Prof. D. Cyrus, Dr Kotthaus, Prof. Lev Fishel- son, Daniel Pelicier and numerous others have contributed material or assistance to our collections. Mzi Winston Mahola removed and labeled thousands of otoliths over the past 1 2 years and his enthusiasm and care have allowed a large series of some species to be collected. Without his help, the Port Elizabeth Museum collection would have been much poorer. Dr C.D. Buxton, J.R. Clarke, M. du Plessis, A. Garai, M. De Klerk and particu¬ larly J. Liebenberg, contributed to the collection or assisted with aspects of this atlas. Mrs Debbie Gadd helped with checking information. Dr H.M. Kok helped in early com¬ puterization of the collection and Dr N.T. Klages contrib¬ uted to some of the computerization in this project. We thank D. J.L. Venter of UPE for help in computer sorting the catalogues and regression calculations. The Museum collection was augmented significantly from cruises undertaken aboard the FRS Africana, particu¬ larly during routine hake biomass surveys on the Cape west and south coasts, and experimental trawling. We thank the Director of the SERI for permission to participate in these cruises. Numerous scientists, particularly Drs A.I.L Payne, A. Badenhorst, R. Leslie and D. Japp, B. Rose, P. Simms, S. du Plessis, numerous technicians and crew helped with collection of material aboard. The micrographs used in this atlas were all done at the RU Electron Microscopy Unit. We are grateful to R.H.M. Cross, S.C. Pinchuck and N. J. Cannon for their help in providing an excellent service. Funding was provided for the first three years by the Foundation for Research Development through the Linefish Programme. Thereafter World Wide Fund For Nature South Africa (formerly Southern African Nature Founda¬ tion) funded the project from donations from Grinaker Hold¬ ings and Sports Mark. This financial support is gratefully acknowledged. We thank Drs P.C. Heemstra and M.A. Raath for con¬ structive comments on the manuscript, Elaine Heemstra for the final rendition of illustrations and Marion Baxter for her patience and help with page layout. The Director, Dr Mike Raath, and PEM Board of Trustees are thanked for the additional support and funding they provided which allowed the completion of this project. Costs of printing were largely borne by FRD and Grinaker Holdings. Coastal Paper provided advice and help with paper procurement. REFERENCES ALLEN, G.R. 1985. FAO species catalogue. Vol. 6. Snappers of the world. An annotated and illustrated catalogue of lutjanid species known to date. FAO Fish. Synop. (125) 6: 208 pp. ANDERSON, M.E.A. 1989. Review of the eelpout genus Pachycara Zugmayer, 1911 (Teleostei: Zoarcidae), with descriptions of six new species. Proc. Cal. Acad. Sci. 46, No. 10: 221-242, 14 figs. BATCHELOR, A.L. & G.J.B. ROSS. 1984. The diet and implications of dietary change of Cape gannets on Bird Island, Algoa Bay. 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Zool., Lond. 227: 465-478. 236 ALPHABETICAL SPECIES INDEX Ablennes hians , Belonidae, PL38, P74 Abudefduf sexfasciatus, Pomacentridae, PL105, P172 Abudefduf sordidus, Pomacentridae, PL105, P172 Abudefduf sparoides, Pomacentridae, PL105, P172 Abudefduf vaigiensis, Pomacentridae, PL105, P172 Acanthistius sebastoides, Serranidae, PL57, PI 01 Acanthistius sp., Serranidae, PL57, PI 01 Acanthocybium solandri, Scombridae, PL 134, P216 Acanthopagrus berda, Sparidae, PL83, PI 42 Acanthopagrus bifasciatus, Sparidae, PL83, PI 42 Acanthurus blochii, Acanthuridae, PL130, P209 Acanthurus dussumieri, Acanthuridae, PL130, P209 Acanthurus leucostemon, Acanthuridae, PL 130, P209 Acanthurus lineatus, Acanthuridae, PL 130, P209 Acanthurus nigrofuscus, Acanthuridae, PL 130, P210 Acanthurus tennenti, Acanthuridae, PL 130, P210 Acanthurus triostegus, Acanthuridae, PL 1 3 1 , P2 1 0 Acanthurus xanthopterus, Acanthuridae, PL 1 3 1 , P2 1 0 Acropoma japonicum, Percichthyidae, PL56, PI 00 Aesopia comuta, Soleidae, PL144, P228 Aethaloperca rogaa, Serranidae, PL58, P102 Agrostichthys parkeri, Regalecidae, PL39, P76 Argyrops filamentosus, Sparidae, PL84, PI 42 Agryrops spinifer, Sparidae, PL84, PI 43 Albula vulpes, Albulidae, PL1, P12 Alectis ciliaris, Carangidae, PL70, PI 20 Alectis indicus, Carangidae, PL70, PI 20 Alepes djedaba, Carangidae, PL70, PI 21 Alepisaurus ferox, Alepisauridae, PL16, P38 Alepocephalus australis, Alepocephalidae, PL 10, P27 Alepocephalus sp., Alepocephalidae, PL 10, P27 Allocyttus verrucosus, Oreosomatidae, PL46, P85 Aluterus monoceros, Balistidae, PL 147, P23 1 Ambassis gymnocephalus, Centropomidae, PL55, P99 Ambassis natalensis, Centropomidae, PL55, P99 Ambassis productus, Centropomidae, PL55, P99 Amblycirrhitus bimacula, Cirrhitidae, PL108, P176 Amblyrhynchotes honckenii, Tetraodontidae, PL 148, P233 Amphiprion akallopisos, Pomacentridae, PL 105, PI 73 Amphiprion allardi, Pomacentridae, PL106, P173 Anampses caeruleopunctatus, Labridae, PL1 13, P185 Anampses lineatus, Labridae, PL 1 13, PI 85 Anampses meleagrides, Labridae, PL 1 14, PI 85 Anchichoerops natalensis, Labridae, PL1 14, PI 86 Anoplogaster comuta, Anoplogasteridae, PL41, P78 Antennablennius australis, Blenniidae, PL125, P201 Antennarius hispidus, Antennariidae, PL35, P68 Antennarius striatus, Antennariidae, PL35, P68 Anthias connelli, Serranidae, PL57, PI 01 Anthias squamipinnis, Serranidae, PL57, P102 Antigonia rubescens, Caproidae, PL47, P86 Antimora rostrata, Moridae, PL27, P55 Aphareus rutilans, Lutjanidae, PL77, POO Apistus carinatus, Scorpaenidae, PL48, P89 Apletodon pellegrini, Gobiesocidae, PL36, P70 Apogon angustatus, Apogonidae, PL65, PI 13 Apogon apogonides, Apogonidae, PL65, PI 13 Apogon aureus, Apogonidae, PL65, PI 13 Apogon coccineus, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 13 Apogon cookii, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 13 Apogon cyanosoma, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 14 Apogon fraenatus, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 14 Apogon kallopterus, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 14 Apogon lateralis, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 14 Apogon multitaeniatus, Apogonidae, PL66, PI 14 Apogon quadrifasciatus, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 15 Apogon savayensis, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 15 Apogon semiomatus, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 15 Apogon taeniophorus, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 15 Apolemichthys trimaculatus, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 68 Aporops allfreei, Grammistidae, PL63, PI 10 Aprion virescens, Lutjanidae, PL77, PI 31 Archamia fucata, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 15 Argentina silus, Argentinidae, PL9, P25 Argyropelecus affinis, Stemoptychidae, PL1 1 , P29 Argyropelecus gigas, Stemoptychidae, PL1 1, P30 Argyropelecus sladeni, Stemoptychidae, PL1 1 , P30 Argyrosomus hololepidotus A, Sciaenidae, PL94, P155 Argyrosomus hololepidotus B, Sciaenidae, PL94, PI 55 Argyrosomus thorpei, Sciaenidae, PL94, PI 56 Argyrozona argyrozona, Sparidae, PL84, PI 43 Ariomma indica, Nomeidae, PL 136, P220 Ariosoma mauritanum, Congridae, PL3, PI 7 Amoglossus capensis, Bothidae, PL 139, P224 Arothron hispidus, Tetraodontidae, PL 148, P233 Arothron stellatus, Tetraodontidae, PL 149, P233 Astronesthes boulengeri, Astronesthidae, PL12, P32 Astronesthes indicus, Astronesthidae, PL12, P32 Ateleopus natalensis, Ateleopodidae, PL40, P76 Atherina breviceps, Antherinidae, PL39, P74 Atherinomorus lacunosus, Antherinidae, PL39, P75 Atractoscion aequidens, Sciaenidae, PL94, PI 56 Atrobucca nibe, Sciaenidae, PL94, PI 56 Atule mate, Carangidae, PL70, P121 Aulacocephalus temmincki, Grammistidae, PL63, PI 09 Aulostomus chinensis, Aulostomidae, PL47, P87 Austroglossus microlepis, Soleidae PL144-145, P228 Austroglossus pectoralis, Soleidae, PL 145, P228 Avocettina acuticeps, Nemichthyidae, PL2, PI 5 Balistapus undulatus, Balistidae, PL147, P230 Barbourisia rufa, Barbourisiidae, PL45, P84 Bassanago albescens, Congridae, PL3, PI 7 Bathygadus cottoides, Macrouridae, PL29, P60 Bathygadus melanobranchus, Macrouridae, PL29, P60 Bathylagus antarcticus, Bathylagidae, PL9, P25 Bathylagus bericoides, Bathylagidae, PL9, P26 Bathylagus sp. A, Bathylagidae, PL9, P26 Bathysauropsis gracilis, Chlorophthalmidae, PL 14, P35 Bathysaurus ferox, Synodontidae, PL15, P36 Bathyuroconger vicinus, Congridae, PL4, PI 7 Batrichthys apiatus, Batrachoididae, PL34, P67 Bembrops platyrhynchus, Percophidae, PL 1 2 1 , P 1 95 Bembrops sp., Percophidae, PL121, P195 Benthalbella macropinna, Scopelarchidae, PL 14, P35 Benthodesmus elongatus elongatus, Trichiuridae, PL 134, P215 Benthosema fibulatum, Myctophidae, PL16, P41 Benthosema suborbitale, Myctophidae, PL16, P42 Beryx splendens, Berycidae, PL41 , P78 Bidenichthys capensis, Bythitidae, PL34, P66 Blennioclinus brachycephalus, Clinidae, PL122, P197 Blennioclinus Stella, Clinidae, PL 122, PI 97 Blennophis anguillaris, Clinidae, PL122, P197 Blennophis striatus, Clinidae, PL122, P197 Bodianus anthioides, Labridae, PL 1 1 4, P 1 86 Bodianus bilunulatus, Labridae, PL1 14, PI 86 Bodianus diana, Labridae, PL1 14, PI 86 Bodianus perditio, Labridae, PL1 14, PI 86 Bolinichthys indicus, Myctophidae, PL 17, P42 Bolinichthys supralateralis, Myctophidae, PL17, P42 Bonapartia pedaliota, Gonostomatidae, PL1 1 , P28 Boopsoidea inomata, Sparidae, PL84, PI 43 Borostomias mononema, Astronesthidae, PL13, P32 Bothus mancus, Bothidae, PL 139, P224 Bramabrama, Bramidae, PL76, PI 29 Bramaorcini, Bramidae, PL76, PI 29 Branchiostegus doliatus, Malacanthidae, PL68, PI 17 Branchiostegus sawakinensis, Malacanthidae, PL68, PI 1 8 Bregmaceros macclellandii, Bregmacerotidae, PL28, P57 Bregmaceros nectabanus, Bregmacerotidae, PL28, P57 Brotula multibarbata, Ophidiidae, PL32, P65 Caelorinchus acanthiger, Macrouridae, PL29, P60 Caelorinchus braueri, Macrouridae, PL29, P60 Caelorinchus denticulatus, Macrouridae, PL30, P61 Caelorinchus kaiyomaru, Macrouridae, PL30, P61 Caelorinchus karrerae, Macrouridae, PL30, P61 Caelorinchus matamua, Macrouridae, PL3 1 , P63 Caelorinchus quadricristatus, Macrouridae, PL30, P61 Caelorinchus simorhynchus, Macrouridae, PL30, P60 237 Caelorinchus trunovi, Macrouridae, PL30, P61 Caesio teres, Caesionidae, PL80, P135 Caffrogobius agulhensis, Gobiidae, PL128, P206 Caffrogobius caffer, Gobiidae, PL 128, P206 Caffrogobius multifasciatus, Gobiidae, PL128, P206 Caffrogobius nudiceps, Gobiidae, PL128, P206 Caffrogobius saldanha, Gobiidae, PL128, P206 Callanthias legras, Serranidae, PL63, P109 Callionymus filamentosus, Callionymidae, PL127, P204 Calloplesiops altivelis, Plesiopidae, PL64, Pill Calotomus spinidens, Scaridae, PL1 18, P191 Cantherhines pardalis, Balistidae, PL147, P231 Canthidermis maculatus, Balistidae, PL147, P230 Canthigaster solandri, Tetraodontidae, PL 149, P233 Carangoides caeruleopinnatus, Carangidae, PL70, PI 21 Carangoides equula, Carangidae, PL71, PI 21 Carangoides fulvoguttatus, Carangidae, PL7 1 , PI 21 Carangoides gymnostethus, Carangidae, PL7 1 , PI 22 Carangoides malabaricus, Carangidae, PL7 1 , PI 22 Caranx ignobilis, Carangidae, PL7 1 , PI 22 Caranx melampygus, Carangidae, PL71 , PI 22 Caranx papuensis, Carangidae, PL71, PI 22 Caranx sem, Carangidae, PL71, PI 23 Caranx sexfasciatus, Carangidae, PL7 1 , PI 23 Cataetyx laticeps, Bythitidae, PL34, P66 Cataetyx niki, Bythitidae, PL34, P67 Centroberyx spinosus, Berycidae, PL42, P78 Centrolophus niger, Stromateidae, PL 137, P222 Centropyge acanthops, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 68 Centropyge bispinosus, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 68 Centropyge multispinis, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 68 Cephalopholis argus, Serranidae, PL58, PI 02 Cephalopholis aurantia, Serranidae, PL58, PI 03 Cephalopholis leopardus, Serranidae, PL58, P103 Cephalopholis miniata, Serranidae, PL58, PI 03 Cephalopholis nigripinnis, Serranidae, PL58, PI 03 Cephalopholis sexmaculata, Serranidae, PL58, P103 Cephalopholis sonnerati, Serranidae, PL59, PI 03 Cephalopholis spiloparaea, Serranidae, PL59, P104 Cephalopholis urodata, Serranidae, PL59, PI 04 Ceratias tentaculatus, Ceratiidae, PL36, P70 Ceratoscopelus warmingii, Myctophidae, PL17, P42 Chaetodon auriga, Chaetodontidae, PL100, P164 Chaetodon blackbumii, Chaetodontidae, PL100, P164 Chaetodon dolosus, Chaetodontidae, PL100, P164 Chaetodon falcula, Chaetodontidae, PL 100, PI 64 Chaetodon guttatissimus, Chaetodontidae, PL100, P164 Chaetodon kleinii, Chaetodontidae, PL100, P165 Chaetodon lunula, Chaetodontidae, PL101, P165 Chaetodon madagaskariensis, Chaetodontidae, PL101, P165 Chaetodon marleyi, Chaetodontidae, PL 101, PI 65 Chaetodon melannotus, Chaetodontidae, PL 101, PI 65 Chaetodon meyeri, Chaetodontidae, PL101 , PI 66 Chaetodon mitratus, Chaetodontidae, PL101, P166 Chaetodon trifascialis, Chaetodontidae, PL 101, PI 66 Chaetodon trifasciatus, Chaetodontidae, PL 101, PI 66 Chaetodon unimaculatus, Chaetodontidae, PL102, P166 Chaetodon vagabundus, Chaetodontidae, PL102, P166 Chaetodon xanthocephalus, Chaetodontidae, PL 102, PI 67 Chalaroderma ocellata, Blenniidae, PL125, P201 Champsodon capensis, Champsodontidae, PL120, P195 Chanos chanos, Chanidae, PL8, P23 Chascanopsetta - Cape, Bothidae, PL140, P225 Chascanopsetta - Kenya, Bothidae, PL 140, P225 Chascanopsetta - Natal & Mozambique, Bothidae, PL140, P224 Chatrabus hendersoni, Batrachoididae, PL34, P67 Chatrabus melanurus, Batrachoididae, PL34, P67 Chauliodus minimus, Chauliodontidae, PL 12, P31 Chauliodus sloani, Chauliodontidae, PL 12, P31 Chaunax p ictus, Chaunacidae, PL35, P69 Cheilinus digrammus, Labridae, PL1 14, PI 87 Cheilinus undulatus, Labridae, PL 1 15, PI 87 Cheilio inermis, Labridae, PL115, PI 87 Cheilodactylus fasciatus, Cheilodactylidae, PL 109, PI 78 Cheilodactylus pixi, Cheilodactylidae, PL 109, PI 78 Cheilodipterus lineatus, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 16 Cheilopogon cyanopterus, Exocoetidae, PL36, P71 Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus altipennis, Exocoetidae, PL36, P71 Cheimerius nufar, Sparidae, PL84, P143 Chelidonichthys capensis, Triglidae, PL52, P94 Chelidonichthys kumu, Triglidae, PL52, P94 Chelidonichthys queketti, Triglidae, PL52, P95 Chirocentrus dorab, Chirocentridae, PL8, P23 Chirodactylus brachydactylus, Cheilodactylidae, PL 109, PI 78 Chirodactylus grandis, Cheilodactylidae, PL1 10, P178 Chirodactylus jessicalenorum, Cheilodactylidae, PL1 10, P179 Chlorophthalmus punctatus, Chlorophthalmidae, PL14, P35 Chloroscombrus chrysurus, Carangidae, PL71, PI 23 Chorisochismus dentex, Gobiesocidae, PL36, P70 Chromis dasygenys, Pomacentridae, PL106, P173 Chromis dimidiata, Pomacentridae, PL 1 06 , P 1 73 Chromis nigrura, Pomacentridae, PL106, P173 Chromis opercularis, Pomacentridae, PL106, PI 74 Chromis viridis, Pomacentridae, PL106, P174 Chromis weberi, Pomacentridae, PL107, PI 74 Chrysiptera leucopoma, Pomacentridae, PL107, P174 Chrysoblephus anglicus, Sparidae, PL85, PI 44 Chrysoblephus cristiceps, Sparidae, PL85, PI 44 Chrysoblephus gibbiceps, Sparidae, PL85, P144 Chrysoblephus laticeps, Sparidae, PL85, PI 44 Chrysoblephus lophus, Sparidae, PL85, PI 44 Chrysoblephus puniceus, Sparidae, PL86, PI 45 Cirrhibarbis capensis, Clinidae, PL122, P198 Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus, Cirrhitidae, PL108, PI 77 Cirrhitus pinnulatus, Cirrhitidae, PL108, P177 Cirripectes castaneus, Blenniidae, PL 125, P202 Citharoides macrolepis, Citharidae, PL139, P223 Climacoporus navalis, Clinidae, PL122, P198 Clinoporus biporosus, Clinidae, PL122, P198 Clinus berrisfordi, Clinidae, PL 123, PI 98 Clinus cottoides, Clinidae, PL123, P198 Clinus helenae, Clinidae, PL123, P199 Clinus robustus, Clinidae, PL 123, PI 99 Clinus superciliosus, Clinidae, PL 123, PI 99 Clinus taurus, Clinidae, PL 123, PI 99 Clinus venustris, Clinidae, PL124, P199 Coccotropsis gymnoderma, Scorpaenidae, PL5 1 , P93 Cociella crocodila, Platycephalidae, PL54, P97 Cociella sp., Platycephalidae, PL54, P97 Coloconger scholesi, Congridae, PL4, PI 8 Conger cinereus cinereus, Congridae, PL4, PI 8 Conger wilsoni, Congridae, PL4, PI 8 Congiopodus spinifer, Congiopodidae, PL51 , P93 Congiopodus torvus, Congiopodidae, PL52, P94 Cookeolus japonicus, Priacanthidae, PL65, PI 12 Coracinus capensis, Coracinidae, PL98, PI 61 Coracinus multifasciatus, Coracinidae, PL98, P161 Coris aygula, Labridae, PL1 1 5, PI 87 Coris caudimacula, Labridae, PL 1 15, PI 87 Coris gaimard africana, Labridae, PL 1 15, PI 88 Coryphaena hippurus, Coryphaenidae, PL75, PI 27 Coryphaenoides striatums, Macrouridae, PL30, P62 Coryphaenoides subserrulatus, Macrouridae, PL30, P62 Cremnochorites capensis, Tripterygiidae, PL121, P196 Crenidens crenidens, Sparidae, PL86, PI 45 Crenimugil crenilabis, Mugilidae, PL1 10, P180 Cromileptes altivelis, Serranidae, PL59, PI 04 Cryptopsaras couesii, Ceratiidae, PL36, P70 Ctenochaetus striatus, Acanthuridae, PL 1 3 1 , P2 1 0 Ctenochaetus strigosus, Acanthuridae, PL 1 3 1 , P2 1 0 Cubiceps baxteri, Nomeidae, PL137, P220 Cubiceps caemleus, Nomeidae, PL137, P220 Cubiceps capensis, Nomeidae, PL 137, P220 Cubiceps pauciradiatus, Nomeidae, PL137, P220 Cymatoceps nasutus, Sparidae, PL86, PI 45 Cymolutes praetextatus, Labridae, PL 1 15, PI 88 Cynoglossus attenuatus, Cynoglossidae, PL142, P226 Cynoglossus capensis, Cynoglossidae, PL143, P227 Cynoglossus capensis - Mozambique, Cynoglossidae, PL 143, P227 Cynoglossus marleyi, Cynoglossidae, PL 143- 144, P227 Cynoglossus zanzibarensis, Cynoglossidae, PL144, P227 Cyprinocirrhites polyactis, Cirrhitidae, PL108, P177 238 Cypselurus oligolepis, Exocoetidae, PL36, P71 Cyttus tr aver si, Zeidae, PL45, P85 Dactyloptena orientalis, Dactylopteridae, PL48, P88 Dactyloptena peterseni, Dactylopteridae, PL48, P88 Dascyllus cameus, Pomacentridae, PL 107, PI 74 Dascyllus trimaculatus, Pomacentridae, PL107, PI 75 Decapterus macarellus, Carangidae, PL72, PI 23 Decapterus macrosoma, Carangidae, PL72, PI 23 Decapterus russelli, Carangidae, PL72, PI 24 Dendrochirus brachypterus, Scorpaenidae, PL48, P90 Diagramma pictum, Haemulidae, PL81, PI 37 Diaphus brachycephalus, Myctophidae, PL 17, P42 Diaphus effulgens, Myctophidae, PL17, P43 Diaphus garmani, Myctophidae, PL17, P43 Diaphus hudsoni, Myctophidae, PL 17, P43 Diaphus jenseni, Myctophidae, PL17, P43 Diaphus lucidus, Myctophidae, PL18, P43 Diaphus meadi, Myctophidae, PL18, P43 Diaphus metopoclampus, Myctophidae, PL18, P44 Diaphus mollis, Myctophidae, PL18, P44 Diaphus ostenfeldi, Myctophidae, PL18, P44 Diaphus perspicillatus, Myctophidae, PL18, P44 Diaphus problematicus, Myctophidae, PL 19, P44 Diaphus watasei, Myctophidae, PL 19, P45 Diastobranchus capensis, Synaphobranchidae, PL2, PI 5 Dicrolene intronigra, Ophidiidae, PL32, P65 Dinoperca petersi, Serranidae, PL63, P109 Diodon hystrix, Diodontidae, PL 149, P234 Diplodus cervinus hottentotus, Sparidae, PL86, PI 45 Diplodus sargus capensis, Sparidae, PL86, PI 45 Diretmoides parini, Diretmidae, PL41, P77 Diretmus argenteus, Diretmidae, PL41, P77 Drepane longimanus, Ephippididae, PL99, PI 63 Dussumieria elopsoides, Clupeidae, PL5, P20 Dysomma anguillare, Synaphobranchidae, PL3, P16 Ebinania costaecanarie, Psychrolutidae, PL55, P98 Echeneis naucrates, Echeneididae, PL70, PI 19 Echiostoma barbatum, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P33 Ecsenius midas, Blenniidae, PL125, P202 Elagatis bipinnulata, Carangidae, PL72, PI 24 Electrona antarctica, Myctophidae, PL19, P45 Electrona carlsbergi, Myctophidae, PL19, P45 Electrona risso, Myctophidae, PL 19, P45 Eleotris fusca, Eleotrididae, PL128, P205 Elops machnata, Elopidae, PL 1 , P 1 2 Emmelichthys nitidus nitidus, Emmelichthyidae, PL76, PI 29 Encheliophis boraborensis, Carapidae, PL33, P66 Engraulis japonicus, Engraulidae, PL7, P22 Epibulus insidiator, Labridae, PL1 15, PI 88 Epigonus robustus A, Apogonidae, PL68, PI 16 Epigonus robustus B, Apogonidae, PL68, PI 16 Epigonus denticulatus, Apogonidae, PL67, PI 16 Epigonus telescopus, Apogonidae, PL68, PI 16 Epinephelus albomarginatus, Serranidae, PL59, PI 04 Epinephelus andersoni, Serranidae, PL59, P104 Epinephelus chabaudi, Serranidae, PL60, PI 05 Epinephelus chlorostigma, Serranidae, PL60, P105 Epinephelus fasciatus, Serranidae, PL60, PI 05 Epinephelus flavocaeruleus, Serranidae, PL60, PI 05 Epinephelus hexagonatus, Serranidae, PL60, PI 05 Epinephelus lanceolatus, Serranidae, PL6 1 , P 1 06 Epinephelus longispinis, Serranidae, PL61, P106 Epinephelus macrospilos, Serranidae, PL61, P106 Epinephelus marginatus, Serranidae, PL61, P106 Epinephelus melanostigma, Serranidae, PL6 1 , PI 06 Epinephelus merra, Serranidae, PL61, PI 07 Epinephelus morrhua, Serranidae, PL61 , P107 Epinephelus rivulatus, Serranidae, PL62, PI 07 Epinephelus spilotoceps, Serranidae, PL62, PI 07 Epinephelus tauvina, Serranidae, PL62, P107 Epinephelus tukula, Serranidae, PL62, P108 Etelis coruscans, Lutjanidae, PL77, PI 31 Etrumeus teres, Clupeidae, PL5, P20 Etrumeus whiteheadi, Clupeidae, PL5, P20 Euleptorhamphus viridis, Hemiramphidae, PL37, P72 Eurypegasus draconis, Pegasidae, PL47, P87 Eustomias lipochirus, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P33 Eustomias schmidti, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P33 Euthynnus affinis, Scombridae, PL 134, P216 Exallias brevis, Blenniidae, PL125, P202 Exocoetus volitans, Exocoetidae, PL37, P72 Fistularia commersonii, Fistulariidae, PL47, P87 Forcipiger flavissimus, Chaetodontidae, PL102, PI 67 Fucomimus mus, Clinidae, PL 124, PI 99 Gadomus capensis, Macrouridae, PL31, P62 Gaidropsarus capensis, Gadidae, PL28, P57 Galeichthys ater, Ariidae, PL8, P24 Galeichthys feliceps, Ariidae, PL8, P24 Galeichthys sp., Ariidae, PL8, P24 Gazza minuta, Leiognathidae, PL75, PI 28 Gempylus serpens, Gempylidae, PL133, P213 Genicanthus caudovittatus, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 69 Genypterus capensis, Ophidiidae, PL33, P65 Genes acinaces, Gerreidae, PL80, PI 35 Genes filamentosus, Gerreidae, PL80, PI 36 Genes oblongus, Gerreidae, PL80, PI 36 Genes oyena, Gerreidae, PL8 1 , P 1 36 Genes rappi, Gerreidae, PL81, PI 36 Gilchristella aestuaria, Clupeidae, PL6, P21 Glossanodon semifasciatus, Argentinidae, PL9, P25 Glossogobius callidus, Gobiidae, PL129, P206 Gnathanodon speciosus, Carangidae, PL72, PI 24 Gnathodentex aureolineatus, Lethrinidae, PL92, PI 51 Gnathophis capensis, Congridae, PL4, PI 8 Gobiodon citrinus, Gobiidae, PL 129, P207 Gomphosus caeruleus, Labridae, PL1 16, PI 88 Gonichthys bamesi, Myctophidae, PL 19, P45 Gonorynchus gonorynchus, Gonorynchidae, PL8, P24 Gono stoma atlanticum, Gonostomatidae, PL1 1 , P28 Gono stoma bathyphilum, Gonostomatidae, PL1 1, P29 Gono stoma elongatum, Gonostomatidae, PL1 1 , P29 Grammistes sexlineatus, Grammistidae, PL63, PI 09 Grammoplites portuguesus, Platycephalidae, PL54, P97 Gymnammodytes capensis, Ammodytidae, PL 127, P204 Gymnocranius griseus, Lethrinidae, PL92, P152 Gymnocranius robinsoni, Lethrinidae, PL92, P152 Gymnocrotaphus curvidens, Sparidae, PL87, PI 46 Gymnosarda unicolor, Scombridae, PL135, P216 Gymnoscopelus bolini, Myctophidae, PL20, P46 Gymnoscopelus braueri, Myctophidae, PL20, P46 Gymnoscopelus fraseri, Myctophidae, PL20, P46 Gymnoscopelus nicholsi, Myctophidae, PL20, P46 Gymnoscopelus opisthopterus, Myctophidae, PL20, P46 Gymnoscopelus piabilis, Myctophidae, PL20, P47 Gymnothorax eurostus, Muraenidae, PL2, PI 3 Gymnothoraxflavimarginatus, Muraenidae, PL2, PI 4 Gymnothorax rueppelliae, Muraenidae, PL2, P14 Gymnothorax undulatus, Muraenidae, PL2, P14 Halichoeres cosmetus, Labridae, PL 1 1 6, P 1 88 Halichoeres hortulanus, Labridae, PL1 1 6, PI 88 Halidesmus scapularis, Congrogadidae, PL 120, PI 94 Halieutaea fitzsimonsi, Ogcocephalidae, PL35, P69 Halosauropsis macrochir, Halosauridae, PL1, PI 2 Halosaurus ovenii, Halosauridae, PL1 , PI 3 Helcogramma obtusirostre, Tripterygiidae, PL121, P197 Helicolenus dactylopterus, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P92 Hemigymnus fasciatus, Labridae, PL116, PI 89 Hemiramphus far, Hemiramphidae, PL37, P73 Hemitaurichthys zoster, Chaetodontidae, PL 102, PI 67 Heniochus acuminatus, Chaetodontidae, PL102, P167 Heniochus monoceros, Chaetodontidae, PL 102, PI 67 Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus , Clupeidae, PL6, P21 Heteromycteris capensis, Soleidae, PL 145, P228 Hilsa kelee, Clupeidae, PL6, P21 Himantolophus groenlandicus, Himantolophidae, PL36, P70 Hipposcarus harid, Scaridae, PL1 18, P192 Hirundichthys rondeletii, Exocoetidae, PL37, P72 Histiopterus typus, Pentacerotidae, PL 104, PI 70 Histrio histrio, Antennariidae, PL35, P69 Holanthias natalensis, Serranidae, PL57, PI 02 Hologymnosus doliatus, Labridae, PL 1 16, PI 89 Hoplichthys acanthopleurus, Hoplichthyidae, PL55, P98 239 Hoplobrotula gnathopus, Ophidiidae, PL33, P65 Hoplostethus atlanticus, Trachichthyidae, PL40, P76 Hoplostethus mediterraneus, Trachichthyidae, PL40, P77 Hoplostethus melanopus, Trachichthyidae, PL40, P77 Howella sherbomi , Percichthyidae, PL56, P100 Hygophum hanseni, Myctophidae, PL21, P47 Hygophum hygomii, Myctophidae, PL21, P47 Hygophum proximum, Myctophidae, PL21, P47 Hyperoglyphe antarctica, Stromateidae, PL138, P222 Hyperoglyphe moselii, Stromateidae, PL138, P222 Hypoatherina temminckii, Antherinidae, PL39, P75 Hyporhamphus affinis, Hemiramphidae, PL37, P73 Hyporhamphus capensis, Hemiramphidae, PL37, P73 Idiacanthus atlanticus, Idiacanthidae, PL 14, P34 I diacanthus fasciola, Idiacanthidae, PL 14, P34 Istiblennius dussumieri, Blenniidae, PL125, P202 Istiblennius edentulus, Blenniidae, PL 126, P202 Istigobius decoratus, Gobiidae, PL129, P207 Istigobius omatus, Gobiidae, PL129, P207 Johnius amblycephalus, Sciaenidae, PL95, PI 56 Johnius dussumieri, Sciaenidae, PL95, PI 56 Kali macrodon, Chiasmodontidae, PL 120, PI 94 Katsuwonus pelamis, Scombridae, PL 135, P217 Kaupichthys sp., Xenocongridae, PL1 , PI 3 Krejftichthys anderssoni, Myctophidae, PL21, P47 Kuhlia mugil, Kuhliidae, PL64, PI 1 1 Kuronezumia leonis, Macrouridae, PL31, P62 Kyphosus bigibbus, Kyphosidae, PL98, PI 62 Kyphosus cinerascens, Kyphosidae, PL99, PI 62 Kyphosus vaigiensis, Kyphosidae, PL99, PI 62 Labroides dimidiatus, Labridae, PL1 16, PI 89 Lactoria fornasini, Ostraciidae, PL148, P232 Laemonema globiceps, Moridae, PL27, P55 Laemonema laureysi, Moridae, PL27, P55 Laeops pectoralis, Bothidae, PL141, P225 Lagocephalus guentheri, Tetraodontidae, PL149, P233 Lagocephalus inermis, Tetraodontidae, PL149, P234 Lagocephalus scleratus, Tetraodontidae, PL 149, P234 Lampadena chavesi, Myctophidae, PL21, P48 Lampadena luminosa, Myctophidae, PL21, P48 Lampadena notialis, Myctophidae, PL21, P48 Lampadena speculigera, Myctophidae, PL22, P48 Lampanyctodes hectoris, Myctophidae, PL22, P48 Lampanyctus achirus, Myctophidae, PL22, P49 Lampanyctus alatus, Myctophidae, PL22, P49 Lampanyctus ater, Myctophidae, PL22, P49 Lampanyctus australis, Myctophidae, PL22, P49 Lampanyctus festivus, Myctophidae, PL23, P49 Lampanyctus intricarius, Myctophidae, PL23, P49 Lampanyctus lepidolychnus, Myctophidae, PL23, P50 Lampanyctus macdonaldi, Myctophidae, PL23, P50 Lampanyctus photonotus, Myctophidae, PL23, P50 Lampanyctus pusillus, Myctophidae, PL23, P50 Lampanyctus tenuiformis, Myctophidae, PL23, P50 Lampanyctus vadulus, Myctophidae, PL24, P5 1 Lampichthys procerus, Myctophidae, PL24, P51 Leiognathus equula, Leiognathidae, PL75, PI 28 Lepidion capensis, Moridae, PL27, P56 Lepidopus caudatus, Trichiuridae, PL134, P215 Lepidotrigla faurei, Triglidae, PL52, P95 Lepidotrigla multispinosa, Triglidae, PL52, P95 Lepidozygus tapeinosoma, Pomacentridae, PL107, P175 Leptoscarus vaigiensis, Scaridae, PL1 18, P192 Lestidiops similis, Paralepididae, PL16, P37 Lestrolepis intermedia, Paralepididae, PL 16, P38 Lethrinus crocineus, Lethrinidae, PL92, P152 Lethrinus elongatus, Lethrinidae, PL92, PI 52 Lethrinus mahsena, Lethrinidae, PL92, P152 Lethrinus mahsenoides, Lethrinidae, PL92, PI 53 Lethrinus nebulosus, Lethrinidae, PL93, P153 Lethrinus rubrioperculatus, Lethrinidae, PL93, PI 53 Lethrinus sanguineus, Lethrinidae, PL93, PI 53 Lethrinus variegatus, Lethrinidae, PL93, PI 53 Lichia amia, Carangidae, PL72, PI 24 Lithognathus aureti, Sparidae, PL87, PI 46 Lithognathus lithognathus, Sparidae, PL87, PI 46 Lithognathus mormyrus, Sparidae, PL87, PI 46 Liza alata, Mugihdae, PL1 10, P180 Liza dumerilii, Mugilidae, PL1 10, P180 Liza macrolepis, Mugilidae, PL1 1 1 , PI 80 Liza richardsonii, Mugihdae, PL1 1 1 , PI 80 Liza tricuspidens, Mugilidae, PL1 11, PI 81 Lobianchia dofleini, Myctophidae, PL24, P51 Lobianchia gemellarii, Myctophidae, PL24, P51 Lobotes surinamensis, Lobotidae, PL80, PI 35 Lophiodes mutilus, Lophiidae, PL34, P68 Lophius vaillanti, Lophiidae, PL34, P68 Lophius vomerinus, Lophiidae, PL34, P68 Lophotus lacepede, Lophotidae, PL39, P75 Lucigadus ori, Macrouridae, PL3 1 , P62 Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Lutjanidae, PL77, PI 31 Lutjanus bohar, Lutjanidae, PL77, PI 31 Lutjanus fulviflamma, Lutjanidae, PL77, PI 31 Lutjanus Julvus, Lutjanidae, PL78, P132 Lutjanus gibbus, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 32 Lutjanus kasmira, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 32 Lutjanus lutjanus, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 32 Lutjanus notatus, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 32 Lutjanus rivulatus, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 33 Lutjanus russellii, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 33 Lutjanus sanguineus, Lutjanidae, PL78, PI 33 Lutjanus sebae, Lutjanidae, PL79, PI 33 Lycodes agulhensis, Zoarcidae, PL 1 19, PI 93 Macolor niger, Lutjanidae, PL79, P133 Macroparalepis macrogeneion, Paralepididae, PL16, P38 Macroramphosus scolopax, Macroramphosidae, PL47, P87 Macrorhamphosodes sp., Triacanthodidae, PL147, P229 Macruronus capensis, Merlucciidae, PL28, P58 Makaira indica, Istiophoridae, PL136, P219 Malacanthus brevirostris, Malacanthidae, PL68, PI 18 Malacanthus latovittatus, Malacanthidae, PL69, PI 18 Malacocephalus laevis, Macrouridae, PL3 1 , P63 Malacosteus niger, Malacosteidae, PL13, P34 Malthopsis luteus, Ogcocephalidae, PL35, P69 Malthopsis tiarella, Ogcocephalidae, PL35, P69 Maurolicus muelleri, Stemoptychidae, PL1 1 , P29 Megalaspis cordyla, Carangidae, PL73, P124 Melamphaes simus, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Melanonus gracilis, Melanonidae, PL28, P57 Melanonus zugmayeri, Melanonidae, PL28, P57 Melanostigma gelatinosum, Zoarcidae, PL120, PI 94 Melanostomias niger, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P33 Melichthys indicus, Balistidae, PL147, P230 Merluccius capensis, Merlucciidae, PL29, P58 Merluccius paradoxus, Merlucciidae, PL29, P58 Mesobius antipodum, Macrouridae, PL3 1 , P63 Metelectrona ventralis, Myctophidae, PL24, P5 1 Minous coccineus, Scorpaenidae, PL48, P89 Monocentris japonicus, Monocentrididae, PL40, P76 Monodactylus argenteus, Monodactylidae, PL97, PI 60 Monodactylus falciformis, Monodactylidae, PL97, PI 60 Monotaxis grandoculis, Lethrinidae, PL93, PI 54 Mugil cephalus, Mugilidae, PL1 11, PI 8 1 Mulloides flavolineatus, Mulhdae, PL96, P157 Muraenesox bagio, Congridae, PL5, P19 Muraenichthys gymnotus, Ophichthidae, PL3, P16 Muraenoclinus dorsalis, Clinidae, PL 124, P200 Myctophum aurolatematum, Myctophidae, PL24, P52 Myctophum nitidulum, Myctophidae, PL25, P52 Myctophum obtusirostre, Myctophidae, PL25, P52 Myctophum phengodes, Myctophidae, PL25, P52 Myctophum spinosum, Myctophidae, PL25, P52 Myripristis bemdti, Holocentridae, PL43, P80 Myripristis chry seres, Holocentridae, PL43, P81 Myripristis hexagona, Holocentridae, PL43, P81 Myripristis kuntee, Holocentridae, PL43, P81 Myripristis melanosticta, Holocentridae, PL43, P81 Myripristis murdjan, Holocentridae, PL43, P81 Myripristis pralinia, Holocentridae, PL43, P82 Myxus capensis, Mugihdae, PL1 11, P181 Nansenia macrolepis, Argentinidae, PL9, P25 Naso annulatus, Acanthuridae, PL132, P21 1 240 Naso brevirostris, Acanthuridae, PL132, P21 1 Naso tuberosus, Acanthuridae, PL132, P212 Naucrates ductor, Carangidae, PL73, PI 25 N emateleotris magnifica, Gobiidae, PL1 29, P207 Nemanthias carberryi, Serranidae, PL57, P102 Nemichthys curvirostris, Nemichthyidae, PL2, PI 5 Nemichthys scolopaceus, Nemichthyidae, PL2, PI 5 Nemipterus bipunctatus, Nemipteridae, PL93, PI 54 Neobythites analis, Ophidiidae, PL33, P66 Neocyttus rhomboidalis, Oreosomatidae, PL46, P86 Neoepinnula orientalis, Gempylidae, PL 133, P213 Neomerinthe nielseni, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P91 Neonesthes capensis, Astronesthidae, PL 13, P32 Neoniphon sammara, Holocentridae, PL42, P79 Neopomacentrus cyanomos, Pomacentridae, PL107, PI 75 Neoscombrops annectens, Percichthyidae, PL56, PI 00 Neoscorpis lithophilus, Kyphosidae, PL99, PI 62 Nessorhamphus ingolfianus, Derichthyidae, PL5, P19 Nettastoma parviceps, Nettastomatidae, PL3, PI 7 Nezumia brevibarbata, Macrouridae, PL31, P63 Nezumia micronychodon, Macrouridae, PL3 1 , P63 Nezumia umbracincta, Macrouridae, PL32, P64 Nomeus gronovii, Nomeidae, PL 137, P221 Notacanthus sexspinis, Notacanthidae, PL1, PI 3 Notopogon macrosolen, Macroramphosidae, PL47, P87 Notoscopelus caudispinosus, Myctophidae, PL25, P53 Notoscopelus resplendens, Myctophidae, PL25, P53 Odonus niger, Balistidae, PL147, P230 Omobranchus banditus, Blenniidae, PL 126, P202 Omobranchus woodi, Blenniidae, PL 126, P203 Ophisurus serpens, Ophichthidae, PL3, PI 6 Opisthoproctus grimaldii, Opisthoproctidae, PL 10, P26 Opisthoproctus soleatus, Opisthoproctidae, PL10, P26 Opistognathus muscatensis, Opistognathidae, PL120, P194 Oplegnathus conwayi, Oplegnathidae, PL 104, PI 70 Oplegnathus robinsoni, Oplegnathidae, PL104, P171 Opostomias micripnus, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P33 Oreochromis mossambicus, Cichlidae, PL105, P171 Oreosoma atlanticum, Oreosomatidae, PL46, P86 Ostichthys kaianus, Holocentridae, PL44, P82 Ostracion cubicus, Ostraciidae, PL148, P232 Otolithes ruber, Sciaenidae, PL95, PI 57 Owstonia weberi, Cepolidae, PL1 10, PI 79 Oxyporhamphus micropterus micropterus, Hemiramphidae, PL38, P73 Oxyurichthys papuensis, Gobiidae, PL129, P207 Pachycara crassiceps, Zoarcidae, PL 120, PI 94 Pachymetopon aeneum, Sparidae, PL87, PI 46 Pachymetopon blochii, Sparidae, PL88, P147 Pachymetopon grande, Sparidae, PL88, PI 47 Pagellus bellottii natalensis, Sparidae, PL88, PI 47 Parabembras robinsoni, Platycephalidae, PL54, P96 Parablennius comutus, Blenniidae, PL126, P203 Parablennius pilicomis, Blenniidae, PL126, P203 Paracaesio sordida, Lutjanidae, PL79, P134 Paracaesio xanthura, Lutjanidae, PL79, PI 34 Paracallionymus costatus, Callionymidae, PL 127, P204 Paracanthurus hepatus, Acanthuridae, PL131 , P21 1 Parachaeturichthys polynema, Gobiidae, PL129, P208 Paracirrhites arcatus, Cirrhitidae, PL109, P177 Paracirrhites forsteri, Cirrhitidae, PL109, P177 Paralepis atlantica, Paralepididae, PL16, P38 Paralichthodes algoensis, Pleuronectidae, PL141, P226 Parapercis maritzi, Mugiloididae, PL121, P196 Parapercis punctulata, Mugiloididae, PL121, P196 Parapercis robinsoni, Mugiloididae, PL121, P196 Parapterois heterurus, Scorpaenidae, PL48, P90 Parascolopsis eriomma, Nemipteridae, PL93, PI 54 Parascorpis typus, Kyphosidae, PL98, P161 Parastromateus niger, Carangidae, PL73, PI 25 Parexocoetus mento, Exocoetidae, PL37, P72 Parupeneus barberinus, Mullidae, PL96, P158 Parupeneus bifasciatus, Mullidae, PL96, P158 Parupeneus cinnabarinus, Mullidae, PL96, PI 58 Parupeneus cyclostomus, Mullidae, PL96, PI 58 Parupeneus indicus, Mullidae, PL96, PI 59 Parupeneus macronema, Mullidae, PL96, PI 59 Parupeneus pleurostigma, Mullidae, PL97, PI 59 Parupeneus rubescens, Mullidae, PL97, PI 59 Pavoclinus graminis, Clinidae, PL124, P200 Pavoclinus laurentii, Clinidae, PL 124, P200 Pavoclinus mentalis, Clinidae, PL 124, P200 Pavoclinus pavo, Clinidae, PL124, P200 Pavoclinus profundus, Clinidae, PL125, P200 Pellona ditchela, Clupeidae, PL6, P21 Pempheris adusta, Pempherididae, PL98, P160 Pempheris mangula, Pempherididae, PL98, PI 61 Pereulixia kosiensis, Blenniidae, PL126, P203 Peristedion weberi, Triglidae, PL53, P96 Persparsia kopua, Searsiidae, PL 10, P27 Pervagor janthinosoma, Balistidae, PL148, P232 Petalichthys capensis, Belonidae, PL38, P74 Petrus rupestris, Sparidae, PL88, PI 47 Phenacoscorpius adenensis, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P91 Photichthys argenteus, Photichthyidae, PL 12, P31 Photoblepharon palpebratus steinitzi, Anomalopidae, PL41, P77 Physiculus capensis, Moridae, PL27, P56 Physiculus natalensis, Moridae, PL27, P56 Plagiogeneion rubiginosus, Emmelichthyidae, PL76, PI 29 Plagiotremus tapeinosoma, Blenniidae, PL126, P203 Platax orbicularis, Ephippididae, PL99, P163 Platax pinnatus, Ephippididae, PL99, P163 Platycephalus indicus, Platycephalidae, PL54, P97 Plectorhinchus chubbi, Haemulidae, PL81, P137 Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus, Haemulidae, PL81, P138 Plectorhinchus gaterinus, Haemulidae, PL81, PI 38 Plectorhinchus gibbosus, Haemulidae, PL82, P138 Plectorhinchus plagiodesmus, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 38 Plectorhinchus playfairi, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 38 Plectorhinchus schotaf Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 Plectorhinchus sordidus, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 Plectroglyphidodon dickii, Pomacentridae, PL 107, PI 75 Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus, Pomacentridae, PL107, P175 Plectroglyphidodon leucozonus, Pomacentridae, PL108, P175 Plectropomus sp., Serranidae, PL62, P108 Plectrypops lima, Holocentridae, PL44, P82 Plotosus lineatus, Plotosidae, PL9, P24 Plotosus nkunga, Plotosidae, PL9, P24 Poecilopsetta natalensis, Pleuronectidae, PL 142, P226 Polyamblyodon germanum, Sparidae, PL89, PI 47 Polyamblyodon gibbosum, Sparidae, PL89, PI 48 Polydactylus plebeius, Polynemidae, PL 1 13, PI 83 Polydactylus sextarius, Polynemidae, PL 1 1 3 , P 1 84 Polydactylus sp., Polynemidae, PL 1 13, PI 84 Polyipnus indicus, Stemoptychidae, PL1 1 , P30 Polyipnus polli, Stemoptychidae, PL12, P30 Polymixia bemdti, Polymixiidae, PL44, P82 Polyprion americanus, Percichthyidae, PL56, P99 Polysteganus coeruleopunctatus, Sparidae, PL89, PI 48 Polysteganus praeorbitalis, Sparidae, PL89, P148 Polysteganus undulosus, Sparidae, PL89, PI 48 Pomacanthus annularis, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 69 Pomacanthus chrysurus, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 69 Pomacanthus imperator, Pomacanthidae, PL 103, PI 69 Pomacanthus rhomb oides, Pomacanthidae, PL 104, PI 69 Pomacanthus semicirculatus, Pomacanthidae, PL 104, PI 70 Pomacentrus trichourus, Pomacentridae, PL108, P176 Pomacentrus trilineatus, Pomacentridae, PL 108, PI 76 Pomadasys commersonnii, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 P omadasys furcatum, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 Pomadasys kaakan, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 Pomadasys maculatum, Haemulidae, PL82, PI 39 Pomadasys multimaculatum, Haemulidae, PL83, PI 40 Pomadasys olivaceum, Haemulidae, PL83, P140 Pomadasys striatum, Haemulidae, PL83, PI 40 Pomadasys stridens, Haemulidae, PL83, PI 40 Pomatomus saltatrix, Pomatomidae, PL69, PI 1 8 Porcostoma dentata, Sparidae, PL89, PI 48 Poromitra crassiceps, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Poromitra megalops, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Priacanthus cruentatus, Priacanthidae, PL65, PI 12 Priacanthus hamrur, Priacanthidae, PL65, PI 12 Priacanthus sp., Priacanthidae, PL65, PI 12 241 Priolepis cincta, Gobiidae, PL 129, P208 Pristipomoides argyrogrammicus, Lutjanidae, PL79, PI 34 Pristipomoides filamentosus, Lutjanidae, PL79, PI 34 Pristipomoides zonatus, Lutjanidae, PL79, PI 34 Promethichthys prometheus, Gempylidae, PL 133, P214 Protomyctophum bolini, Myctophidae, PL25, P53 Protomyctophum normani, Myctophidae, PL25, P53 Protomyctophum tenisoni, Myctophidae, PL26, P53 Psammogobius knysnaensis, Gobiidae, PL 129, P208 Psenes whiteleggii, Nomeidae, PL137, P221 Psettodes erumei, Psettodidae, PL138, P223 Psettodes sp., Psettodidae, PL138, P223 Pseudocaranx dentex, Carangidae, PL73, PI 25 Pseudocheilinus hexataenia, Labridae, PL 1 16, PI 89 Pseudochromis dutoiti, Pseudochromidae, PL64, PI 10 Pseudochromis melas, Pseudochromidae, PL64, PI 10 Pseudocyttus maculatus, Oreosomatidae, PL46, P86 Pseudo gramma polyacantha, Grammistidae, PL63, PI 10 Pseudorhombus arsius, Bothidae, PL141, P225 Psychrolutes inermis, Psychrolutidae, PL55, P98 Psychrolutes macrocephalus, Psychrolutidae, PL55, P98 Pteragogus flagellifer, Labridae, PL 1 17, PI 89 Pteragogus pelycus, Labridae, PL 1 17, PI 90 Pterogymnus laniarius, Sparidae, PL90, PI 49 Pterois antennata, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P90 Pterois miles, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P90 Pterois radiata, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P90 Pterothrissus belloci, Albulidae, PL1, P12 Pygoplites diacanthus, Pomacanthidae, PL104, P170 Rachycentron canadum, Rachycentridae, PL69, PI 19 Rastrelliger kanagurta, Scombridae, PL 1 35 , P2 1 7 Remora brachyptera, Echeneididae, PL70, PI 19 Remora remora, Echeneididae, PL70, PI 19 Rexea promethoides, Gempylidae, PL133, P214 Rhabdosargus globiceps, Sparidae, PL90, PI 49 Rhabdosargus holubi, Sparidae, PL90, PI 49 Rhabdosargus sarba, Sparidae, PL90, PI 49 Rhabdosargus thorpei, Sparidae, PL91, PI 49 Rhechias wallacei, Congridae, PL4, PI 8 Rhinecanthus aculeatus, Balistidae, PL147, P230 Rondeletia loricata, Rondeletiidae, PL45, P84 Sagamichthys schnakenbecki A, Searsiidae, PL10, P28 Sagamichthys schnakenbecki B, Searsiidae, PL 10, P28 Samariscus triocellatus, Pleuronectidae, PL 142, P226 Sarda orientalis, Scombridae, PL 135, P217 Sarda sarda, Scombridae, PL135, P217 Sardinella albella, Clupeidae, PL6, P21 Sardinella aurita, Clupeidae, PL6, P22 Sardinella gibbosa, Clupeidae, PL7, P22 Sardinops ocellatus, Clupeidae, PL7, P22 Sargocentron caudimaculatum, Holocentridae, PL42, P79 Sargocentron diadema, Holocentridae, PL42, P79 Sargocentron inaequalis, Holocentridae, PL42, P80 Sargocentron melanospilos, Holocentridae, PL42, P80 Sargocentron praslin, Holocentridae, PL42, P80 Sargocentron punctatissimum, Holocentridae, PL42, P80 Sargocentron spiniferum, Holocentridae, PL43, P80 Sarpa salpa, Sparidae, PL91, PI 50 Satyrichthys adeni, Triglidae, PL53, P96 Satyrichthys investigatoris, Triglidae, PL53, P96 Saurida gracilis, Synodontidae, PL15, P36 Saurida undosquamis, Synodontidae, PL15, P37 Scartella emarginata, Blenniidae, PL127, P203 Scams cyanescens, Scaridae, PL1 1 8, P192 Scams ghobban, Scaridae, PL1 19, P192 Scams niger, Scaridae, PL 1 19, PI 92 Scams psittacus, Scaridae, PL 1 19, PI 93 Scams mbroviolaceus, Scaridae, PL1 19, P193 Scams scaber, Scaridae, PL1 19, P193 Scams sordidus, Scaridae, PL1 19, P193 Schedophilus huttoni, Stromateidae, PL138, P222 Schedophilus ovalis, Stromateidae, PL 138, P222 Scolopsis vosmeri, Nemipteridae, PL93, PI 54 Scomber japonicus, Scombridae, PL135, P217 Scomberesox saums scomberoides, Scomberesocidae, PL38, P74 Scomberoides commersonnianus, Carangidae, PL73, PI 25 Scomberoides lysan, Carangidae, PL73, PI 25 Scomberoides tol, Carangidae, PL73, P126 Scomberomoms commerson, Scombridae, PL 135, P218 Scomberomoms plurilineatus, Scombridae, PL136, P218 Scombrops boops, Pomatomidae, PL69, PI 18 Scopelarchus analis, Scopelarchidae, PL14, P35 Scopelogadus beanii, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Scopelogadus mizolepis mizolepis, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Scopelopsis multipunctatus, Myctophidae, PL26, P54 Scopelosaums ahlstromi, Notosudidae, PL14, P36 Scopelosaums meadi, Notosudidae, PL14, P36 Scorpaena scrofa, Scorpaenidae, PL49, P91 Scorpaenodes parvipinnis, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P91 Scorpaenopsis gibbosa, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P91 Scorpaenopsis venosa, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P91 Sebastapistes cyanostigma, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P92 Sebastapistes strongia, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P92 Sebastes capensis, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P92 Secutor insidiator, Leiognathidae, PL76, PI 28 Selachophidium guentheri, Ophidiidae, PL33, P66 Selar cmmenophthalmus, Carangidae, PL73, PI 26 Seriola lalandi, Carangidae, PL74, PI 26 Seriola rivoliana, Carangidae, PL74, PI 26 Seriolina nigrofasciata, Carangidae, PL74, PI 26 Serranus cabrilla, Serranidae, PL62, P108 Serrivomer beanii, Serrivomeridae, PL5, PI 9 Serrivomer sp. A, Serrivomeridae, PL5, P19 Setarches guentheri, Scorpaenidae, PL5 1 , P93 Siganus argenteus, Siganidae, PL132, P212 Siganus stellatus, Siganidae, PL132, P213 Siganus sutor, Siganidae, PL132, P213 Sillago chondropus, Sillaginidae, PL68, PI 17 Sillago sihama, Sillaginidae, PL68, PI 17 Sio nordenskjoldii, Melamphaidae, PL44, P83 Solea bleekeri, Soleidae, PL146, P229 Solea fulvomarginata, Soleidae, PL146, P229 Sorsogona prionota, Platycephalidae, PL54, P97 Sparodon durbanensis, Sparidae, PL91, PI 50 Sphagemacmms pumiliceps, Macrouridae, PL32, P64 Sphoeroides pachygaster, Tetraodontidae, PL 149, P234 Sphyraena acutipinnis, Sphyraenidae, PL1 12, P182 Sphyraena chrysotaenia, Sphyraenidae, PL1 12, PI 82 Sphyraena flavicauda, Sphyraenidae, PL1 1 2, PI 82 Sphyraena forsteri, Sphyraenidae, PL 1 1 2, P 1 83 Sphyraena jello, Sphyraenidae, PL 1 13, PI 83 Sphyraena putnamiae, Sphyraenidae, PL 1 13, PI 83 Spicara australis, Centracanthidae, PL91, PI 50 Spicara axillaris, Centracanthidae, PL91-92, PI 51 Spondyliosoma emarginatum, Sparidae, PL91, P150 Stemoptyx diaphana, Stemoptychidae, PL12, P30 Stethojulis albovittata, Labridae, PL1 17, P190 Stethojulis intermpta, Labridae, PL1 17, P190 Stethojulis strig iventer, Labridae, PL 1 1 7 , P 1 90 Stomias boa boa, Stomiidae, PL12, P31 Stromateus fiatola, Stromateidae, PL138, P222 Sufflamen chrysoptems, Balistidae, PL147, P231 Sufflamen fraenatus, Balistidae, PL 147, P231 Sufflogobius bibarbatus, Gobiidae, PL129, P208 Symbolophoms bamardi, Myctophidae, PL26, P54 Symbolophoms boops, Myctophidae, PL26, P54 Symbolophoms evermanni, Myctophidae, PL26, P54 Symbolophoms mfinus, Myctophidae, PL26, P54 Synagrops japonicus, Percichthyidae, PL56, P100 Synagrops microlepis, Percichthyidae, PL56, PI 01 Synanceia verrucosa, Scorpaenidae, PL5 1 , P93 Synaphobranchus affinis, Synaphobranchidae, PL3, PI 6 Synaphobranchus kaupii, Synaphobranchidae, PL3, PI 6 Synaptura marginata, Soleidae, PL146, P229 Synapturichthys kleini, Soleidae, PL146, P229 Synchiropus monacanthus, Callionymidae, PL 127, P205 Synodus indicus, Synodontidae, PL15, P37 Synodus variegatus, Synodontidae, PL15, P37 Taaningichthys bathyphilus, Myctophidae, PL26, P55 Taenianotus triacanthus, Scorpaenidae, PL50, P92 Terapon jarbua, Teraponidae, PL64, PI 1 1 Terapon theraps, Teraponidae, PL64, PI 1 1 242 Tetragonurus cuvieri, Tetragonuridae, PL137, P221 Thalassoma amblycephalum, Labridae, PL1 17, P190 Thalassoma hebraicum, Labridae, PL 1 17, PI 90 Thalassoma lunare, Labridae, PL1 17, P191 Thalassoma purpureum, Labridae, PL 1 18, PI 91 Thalassoma trilobatum, Labridae, PL1 18, P191 Thamnaconus fajardoi, Balistidae, PL148, P232 Thamnaconus modestoides, Balistidae, PL 148, P232 Thryssa setirostris, Engraulidae, PL7, P23 Thryssa vitrirostris, Engraulidae, PL7, P23 Thunnus alalunga, Scombridae, PL136, P218 Thunnus albacares, Scombridae, PL136, P218 Thunnus maccoyii, Scombridae, PL 136, P219 Thunnus thynnus thynnus, Scombridae, PL136, P219 Thyrsites atun, Gempylidae, PL 133, P214 Thyrsitoides marleyi, Gempylidae, PL 133, P214 Thysanophrys arenicola, Platycephalidae, PL54, P98 Trachinocephalus myops, Synodontidae, PL16, P37 Trachinotus africanus, Carangidae, PL74, PI 27 Trachinotus botla, Carangidae, PL74, PI 27 Trachipterus trachypterus, Trachipteridae, PL39, P75 Trachonurus villosus, Macrouridae, PL32, P64 Trachurus delagoa, Carangidae, PL75, PI 27 Trachurus trachurus, Carangidae, PL75, PI 27 Trachyrhamphus bicoarctatus, Syngnathidae, PL48, P88 Trachyrincus scabrus, Macrouridae, PL32, P64 Trachyscorpia capensis, Scorpaenidae, PL51, P93 Trichiurus lepturus, Trichiuridae, PL 134, P215 Trigla lyra, Tnglidae, PL53, P95 Trigloporus lastoviza africanus, Triglidae, PL53, P95 Trigonolampa miriceps, Melanostomiidae, PL13, P34 Tripterodon orbis, Ephippididae, PL99, P163 Tripterophycis gilchristi, Moridae, PL28, P56 Tylosurus crocodilus crocodilus, Belonidae, PL38, P74 Umbrina canariensis, Sciaenidae, PL95, P157 Umbrina ronchus, Sciaenidae, PL95, PI 57 Upeneus tragula, Mullidae, PL97, P159 Upeneus vittatus, Mullidae, PL97, P159 Uranoscopus archionema, Uranoscopidae, PL 120, PI 95 Uroconger lepturus, Congridae, PL5, P18 Uropterygius micropterus, Muraenidae, PL2, PI 4 Valamugil buchanani, Mugilidae, PL1 12, P181 Valamugil robustus, Mugilidae, PL1 12, PI 81 Valamugil seheli, Mugilidae, PL 1 1 2, PI 82 Variola albimarginata, Serranidae, PL62, PI 08 Variola louti, Serranidae, PL62, PI 08 Ventrifossa nasuta, Macrouridae, PL32, P64 Vinciguerria lucetia, Photichthyidae, PL 12, P31 Winteria telescopa, Opisthoproctidae, PL10, P26 Xenodermichthys copei, Alepocephalidae, PL 10, P27 Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi, Grammicolepididae, PL46, P86 Xenopoclinus leprosus, Clinidae, PL 125, P201 Xiphasia setifer, Blenniidae, PL127, P204 Xiphias gladius, Xiphiidae, PL 136, P219 Xyrichtys pavo, Labridae, PL1 18, P191 Yongeichthys nebulosus, Gobiidae, PL 129, P208 Zanclus canescens, Acanthuridae, PL132, P212 Zebrasoma gemmatum, Acanthuridae, PL131, P211 Zebrasoma scopas, Acanthuridae, PL131, P21 1 Zebrasoma veliferum, Acanthuridae, PL132, P21 1 Zenion hololepis, Macrourocyttidae, PL45, P84 Zenopsis conchifer, Zeidae, PL45, P85 Zeus capensis, Zeidae, PL45, P85 Zeusfaber, Zeidae, PL45, P85 Table 1. Regressions of otolith diameter (OD) against body mass (M), total length (TL), fork length (FL) and standard length (SL). The data were regressed using the form In y = In a + b In x, and In is the natural logarithm, where x = OD, and y = M, TL, FL or SL, respectively. Columns are: species. Smiths’ Sea Fishes number, Nelson’s number, minimum and maximum otolith diameter of each species, y axis, number in the regression, the correlation coefficient, probability, a and b values, and the maximum and minimum values used in that regression. * indicates regressions of two species. Argyrosomus hololepidotus is in fact two species and Johnius spp. relates to the curve for J. amblycephalus and J. dussumieri combined, Epigonus cf. robustus is probably two species. See text and Smith & Heemstra (1986). SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) Bassanago albescens 403 62 6 40 11.50 InM 43 0916 <0.001 -2.1867 3.9603 126.6 1980.0 InTL 43 0.919 <0 001 4.1576 1.0912 449.0 9600 InSL 41 0.922 <0.001 4.1102 1 1023 430.0 945.0 Conger wilsoni 408 62 1.70 746 InM 18 0.977 <0.001 -2.4885 4 4879 1.0 8800 InTL 18 0.991 <0 001 3.6938 1.4885 960 8550 Diastobranchus capensls 46.1 57 0.55 5.60 InM 50 0.970 <0.001 2.1401 3.2348 2.2 2050.0 InTL 49 0.969 <0.001 5.4420 09364 158.0 1071 0 InSL 50 0.968 <0 001 5.4239 09247 153.0 1046 0 Synaphobranchus kaupii 467 57 2.00 3 30 InM 45 0.593 <0 001 3 1000 1.7617 56.8 219.0 InTL 40 0.600 <0 001 5.7375 0 4536 3940 5720 InSL 45 0 519 <0 001 5.8017 0 3718 3880 5670 Notocanthus sexspmis 52.1 47 1.40 260 InM 62 0.735 <0 001 3.3225 2.3204 44.1 351 6 InTL 51 0784 <0.001 5.5182 0.7316 3000 550.0 InFL 28 0.720 <0.001 4.5889 0 6915 120.0 194.0 InSL 31 0 586 <0 001 5.5275 0.7152 2250 540.0 Etrumeus whiteheadi 542 69 1.80 4 80 InM 155 0.975 <0.001 -0.6938 3.5282 4.2 143.5 InTL 154 0976 <0 001 37965 1 1088 870 2600 InFL 151 0.967 <0001 3.6459 1.1405 77 0 237 0 InSL 156 0.973 <0 001 3.6018 1 1069 72.0 2330 Sardmops ocellatus 54 12 69 0 50 460 InM 129 0.992 <0 001 -0.1225 3.3965 0.1 131.8 InTL 133 0990 <0 001 3.9583 1 0689 320 346 0 InFL 131 0.992 <0.001 3.8777 1 .0471 300 226.0 InSL 133 0.992 <0 001 3.7865 1 0564 27.0 2120 Engrauhs japomcus 55.1 70 090 4.30 InM 178 0.968 <0.001 -1 0158 2.8541 0.4 25 7 InTL 176 0.971 <0 001 3.7039 0.9137 42 0 157.0 InFL 174 0.971 <0.001 3.6072 0.9221 31.0 144 0 InSL 168 0.969 <0.001 3.4572 0.9812 360 134.0 Thryssa setirostns 555 70 3.75 490 InM 15 0830 <0.001 -1.1539 2.6598 9.5 24.6 InTL 15 0.849 <0 001 3 6748 0.8121 1110 1440 InFL 15 0.709 0003 3.8983 0.5853 106.0 130 0 InSL 15 0.795 <0.001 3.5325 07550 890 116.0 Thryssa vitnrostns 556 70 5.50 744 InM 10 0882 <0 001 -4.6847 43818 119 890 InTL 10 0.917 <0.001 2.7573 1 .2494 124 0 235.0 InFL 10 0901 <0.001 2.4694 1.3413 1070 203.0 InSL 10 0904 <0.001 2.3908 1 3319 97.0 190.0 Gonorynchus gonorynchus 57.1 73 0 85 4.80 InM 25 0.988 <0.001 0.7456 3.3375 1.8 3854 InTL 25 0988 <0.001 4.4773 1 .0094 86 0 416.0 InFL 19 0.977 <0.001 4.4571 0 9913 90.0 400 0 InSL 25 0 989 <0 001 4 3533 1.0180 780 370.0 Galeichthys ater 59 2 108 3.20 14 00 InM 44 0.982 <0.001 -4.0831 3.9832 1.8 3620 InTL 45 0988 <0.001 2.4346 1.3122 53.0 370.0 InFL 45 0985 <0.001 2.3623 1.3015 48.0 325.0 InSL 45 0.984 <0.001 2.1947 1 .3362 42.0 301.0 Galeichthys feliceps 59 3 108 280 13 90 InM 64 0.989 <0.001 -4.6236 4.2773 1.1 790.0 InTL 66 0.989 <0.001 2.3402 1.4017 49.0 435.0 InFL 66 0.992 <0.001 2.2688 1 .3736 45.0 375.0 InSL 63 0990 <0 001 2.1601 1 .3823 41.0 345.0 Alepocephalus australis 64 1 134 3 40 7.18 InM 17 0.818 <0.001 0.9374 3.0636 49.0 865.0 InTL 17 0.869 <0 001 4.4917 0.9150 230.0 498.0 InFL 17 0.868 <0001 4.3777 0.9325 210.0 465.0 InSL 17 0.875 <0.001 4.2785 0.9534 200.0 447.0 Chauliodus sloani 68.2 147 0.75 1.60 InM 17 0.899 <0.001 2.6275 3.0272 4.1 62.9 InTL 14 0866 <0.001 5.2685 0.9666 126.0 299.0 InFL 17 0898 <0.001 5.2155 0.9303 122.0 285.0 InSL 22 0.912 <0.001 5.2013 0.8546 120.0 276.0 Photichthys argenteus 73.4 146 2.10 6.70 InM 65 0961 <0.001 -1.1170 3.1636 12.0 147.0 InTL 35 0.967 <0.001 3.9374 0.9549 156.0 326.0 InSL 66 0.972 <0.001 3.8109 0.9911 76.0 310.0 Maurolicus muellen 75.1 145 1.20 2.40 InM 87 0.787 <0.001 -1 .8326 3.0971 0.2 2.1 InTL 85 0.851 <0.001 3.4062 0.8570 33.0 60.0 InSL 90 0.869 <0.001 3.1557 0.9618 27.0 52.0 244 T able 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) Chlorophthalmus punctatus 76.9 154 3.50 5.30 InM 44 0.854 <0.001 -3.4683 4.5849 10.1 81.8 InTL 39 0.903 <0.001 3.0920 1.3219 118.0 200.0 InFL 40 0.916 <0.001 3.0658 1 .2788 111.0 180.0 InSL 44 0.875 <0.001 2.9362 1.3080 97.0 167.0 Saurida undosquamis 79.3 157 5.50 11.70 InM 19 0.964 <0.001 -2.8555 3.4887 20.4 337.0 InTL 18 0.969 <0.001 3.0124 1.1711 145.0 350.0 InFL 19 0.968 <0.001 2.8918 1.1905 132.0 329.0 InSL 18 0.967 <0.001 2.8458 1.1717 123.0 297.0 Bolinichthys supralateralis 86.7 166 2.80 5.10 InM 14 0.959 <0.001 -1.5410 2.9545 3.0 28.0 InTL 14 0.975 <0.001 3.2626 1 .0032 68.0 135.0 InSL 16 0.966 <0.001 3.1763 0.9673 61.0 117.0 Diaphus hudsoni 86.20 166 3.10 5.70 InM 23 0.937 <0.001 -2.1402 2.4870 2.1 5.1 InTL 15 0921 <0.001 2.6163 1.2040 56.0 85.0 InFL 21 0908 <0.001 2.8065 1.0085 52.0 73.0 InSL 24 0.959 <0.001 2.7179 1 .0077 48.0 90.0 Diaphus mollis 86.28 166 1.42 5.20 InSL 22 0.959 <0.001 2.9971 0 7922 25.8 79.0 Electrona antarctica 86.44 166 1.62 3.00 InM 21 0.877 <0.001 -1 .0926 3.3178 2.0 9.5 InTL 87 0.893 <0.001 3.5114 1.1105 41.0 115.0 InSL 111 0 902 <0 001 3.3677 1.1081 36.0 100.0 Electrona cartsbergi 86.45 166 3.10 3.50 InSL 25 0.392 0.053 3.7235 0.4703 67 0 79.0 Electrona risso 86.47 166 2.70 4.60 InM 9 0.982 <0.001 -3.781 1 3.9285 1.0 9.0 InSL 13 0.935 <0.001 2.4764 1.1537 35.0 72.0 Gymnoscopelus nicholsi 86.53 166 5.30 6.22 InSL 24 0.658 <0.001 3.5636 07847 128.0 153.0 Gymnoscopelus piabilis 86.58 166 4.30 6.40 InM 34 0.845 <0.001 -2.7910 3.1981 6.0 270 InTL 20 0.882 <0.001 3.2514 0.9420 100.0 148.0 InFL 19 0.933 <0 001 2.4204 1 .3508 99.0 135.0 InSL 34 0.823 <0.001 2.9374 1.0150 82.0 130.0 Krefftichthys anderssoni 86.64 166 1.10 1.90 InSL 27 0.932 <0.001 3 3549 1 .2493 33.0 66.0 InSL 27 0.932 <0 001 3.3549 1 .2493 33.0 66.0 Lampanyctodes hectoris 86.72 166 1.70 2.70 InM 97 0.878 <0.001 -2.5907 4.2197 0.5 5.4 InTL 97 0.902 <0.001 3.1988 1 .2676 47.0 850 InFL 31 0.694 <0.001 3.2611 1 0594 51.0 75 0 InSL 103 0.900 <0001 2.9403 1.3463 37.0 75.0 Lampanyctus australis 86.76 166 1.18 3.20 InSL 18 0.983 <0.001 3.4661 1.1006 38.4 114.0 Lampanyctus lepidolychnus 86.79 166 0.90 2.40 InM 11 0.856 <0.001 0.0856 3.0963 4.0 19.0 InSL 26 0.952 <0.001 3.6722 1 .2476 36.9 119.0 Lobianchia gemellarii 86.93 166 4.90 7.40 InSL 15 0.977 <0.001 1 .6621 1.4679 55.0 98.8 Scopelopsis multipunctatus 86.118 166 2.19 3.00 InSL 15 0.578 0.024 3.2828 0.7217 43.0 62.0 Symbolophorus bamardi 86.119 166 1.84 5.30 InM 24 0 930 <0.001 -1 .2835 2.4423 1.0 15 0 InTL 21 0.973 <0 001 3.4839 0.8183 53.0 117.0 InFL 17 0.979 <0.001 3.2942 0.8878 46.0 106.0 InSL 25 0.973 <0.001 3.2652 0.8475 43.0 109.0 Symbolophorus boops 86.120 166 1.92 6.20 InM 41 0.808 <0.001 -0.8470 2.1726 9.8 24.0 InTL 37 0.841 <0.001 3.6919 0.7005 110.0 147.0 InFL 31 0.879 <0.001 3.5115 07546 99.0 131.0 InSL 42 0 940 <0.001 3.1372 09235 50.1 121.0 Gaidropsarus capensis 88.1 174 1.20 3.70 InM 18 0.962 <0 001 -1 .7043 4.4280 0.5 76.1 InTL 18 0.967 <0 001 3.4237 1 .3866 40.0 194.0 InSL 18 0.956 <0.001 3.2919 1 .3921 35.0 170.0 Merluccius capensis 89.4 175 2.30 32.00 InM 256 0.995 <0.001 -3.8096 3.5359 0.7 4950.0 InTL 256 0.995 <0.001 2.7806 1.1337 49.0 850.0 InSL . 231 0.994 <0 001 2.6422 1.1334 42.0 740.0 Merluccius paradoxus 89.5 175 4.00 27.00 InM 56 0 995 <0.001 -4.5042 3.8570 3.0 3745 0 InTL 54 0.998 <0.001 2.6739 1.2045 79.0 720.0 InSL 56 0.997 <0.001 2.4537 1.2402 65.0 660.0 Antimora rostrata 90.1 171 6.80 14.20 InM 23 0.965 <0.001 -8.8171 5.6461 7.5 548.6 InTL 14 0.964 <0.001 1 .7042 1 .6333 137.0 418.0 InSL 22 0.969 <0.001 1.8136 1.5416 127.0 377.0 Lepidion capensis 90.5 171 8.20 17.40 InM 60 0.924 <0 001 -6.2038 4.6315 22.0 122.0 InTL 54 0.939 <0.001 2.3171 1.3719 160.0 486.0 InSL 60 0.919 <0.001 2.4362 1 .2827 147.0 432.0 Physiculus capensis 90.7 171 5.80 1030 InM 25 0.961 <0.001 -5.2799 4.1194 5.5 83.6 InTL 23 0.955 <0.001 2 3623 1.2549 102.0 203.0 InSL 25 0.952 <0.001 2.2301 1.2677 85.0 180.0 Tripterophycis gilchristi 90.9 171 5.90 9.10 InM 29 0.678 <0.001 -1 .9783 2.5938 9.7 57.0 InTL 28 0.831 <0.001 3.1031 1 .0731 141.0 252.0 InSL 26 0.780 <0.001 3.2243 0.9808 135.0 235.0 Caelorinchus braueri 93.5 176 5.60 13.40 InM 62 0.969 <0.001 -3.7675 3.5221 8.3 279.4 InTL 47 0.950 <0.001 3.3943 0.9837 147.0 404.0 InSL 40 0.960 <0.001 1 .5793 1.3032 44.0 152.0 Caelorinchus denticulatus 93.7 176 4.80 12.86 InM 16 0.873 <0.001 -1.8290 2.3141 5.3 890 245 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InTL 16 0.752 <0 001 3.8638 0.651 1 121.0 321.0 InSL 16 0.918 <0.001 -0.5358 2.4515 31.0 220.0 Caelorinchus sJmortiynchus 93.8 176 2.90 17.40 InM 66 0.938 <0.001 -4.7557 3.9875 0.5 625.1 InTL 55 0.959 <0.001 2.9046 1.1803 115.0 525.0 InFL 31 0.893 <0.001 2.6499 1 .2821 192.0 503.0 Caelorinchus matamua 93.16 176 9.30 14.40 InM 25 0.785 <0.001 -2.2784 3.4121 124.5 822.7 InTL 25 0.783 <0.001 3.6729 1 .0098 • 320.0 557.0 InSL 12 0.755 0.004 2.2261 1 .0859 97.0 159.0 Malacocephalus laevis 93.17 176 5.00 18.50 InM 37 0.982 <0.001 -6.2028 4.6692 8.5 1140.0 InTL 17 0.941 <0.001 2.4895 1.4194 123.0 650.0 Nezumia micronychodon 93.22 176 4.20 10.20 InM 37 0.937 <0.001 -2.4306 3.2303 8.5 176.5' InTL 17 0.926 <0.001 2.9072 1 .2797 177.0 331.0 InSL 18 0.885 <0.001 1.3166 1 .3236 35.0 83.0 Lucigadus oh 93.32 176 4.80 7.50 InM 32 0.845 <0.001 -2.3545 2.8630 8.4 276 InTL 32 0.822 <0.001 4.0144 0.7241 170.0 233.0 Dicrolene intronigra 96.5 177 2.40 7.60 InM 57 0.947 <0.001 -0.2819 2.6695 7.4 164.1 InTL 57 0.919 <0.001 4.2356 0.7791 131.0 330.0 InSL 54 0.949 <0.001 4.1626 0.7720 119.0 2990 Genypterus capensis 96.9 177 6.20 21.24 InM 65 0.984 <0.001 -6.4094 5.2076 21.1 15000.0 InTL 67 0.984 <0.001 2.3930 1 .5630 188 0 1360.0 InSL 31 0.985 <0 001 2.7349 1 .3860 180 0 930.0 Selachophidium guentheri 96 22 177 4.60 10.40 InM 32 0.946 <0.001 -2.4004 3.2829 11.9 152.9 InTL 44 0.857 <0.001 3.8552 0.8004 156.0 304.0 InSL 32 0.899 <0.001 3.7459 0.8285 143.0 288.0 Lophius vomennus 101.4 182 1.20 11.74 InM 104 0.963 <0.001 -0.3543 3.8554 2.9 11000.0 InTL 103 0.968 <0.001 3.6028 1.2790 58.0 900.0 InSL 88 0.967 <0.001 3.4102 1 .2594 45.0 735.0 Chaunax pictus 103.2 185 2.20 9.80 InM 13 0.929 <0.001 -1 .2898 3.0332 3.8 652.2 InTL 12 0.939 <0.001 3.1804 0.9846 49.0 260.0 InSL 12 0.975 <0.001 2.8273 1 .0279 37.0 201.0 Halieutaea fitzsimonsi 104.2 186 2.65 8.90 InM 15 0.939 <0.001 -1 .9546 3.0787 2.3 143.0 InTL 15 0.957 <0.001 2.8941 1 .0603 48.0 180.0 InSL 15 0.955 <0.001 2.5723 1.1090 36.0 148.0 Chohsochismus dentex 110.2 198 0 40 1.90 InM 65 0.919 <0.001 2.4757 5.4499 0.2 327.6 InTL 65 0.923 <0.001 4.4266 1.7149 21.0 235.0 InSL 63 0.922 <0.001 4.2297 1.7135 18.0 200.0 Athenna breviceps 111.1 213 2.00 3.10 InM 27 0.836 <0.001 -1 .4990 2.6643 1.2 5.2 InTL 27 0.864 <0.001 3.4954 0.8378 56.0 89.0 InFL 26 0.899 <0.001 3.3473 0.8991 51.0 81.0 InSL 27 0.877 <0.001 3.2527 0.8890 450 73.0 Scomberesox saurus 114.2 203 1.20 2.40 InM 20 0.921 <0.001 1.9404 3.2056 11.1 114.6 InTL 19 0.911 <0.001 4.9723 1 .0298 165.0 348.0 InFL 18 0.905 <0.001 4.9137 1 .0288 155.0 330.0 InSL 19 0.908 <0.001 4.8344 1.0636 144.0 311.0 Hemiramphus far 115.2 201 1.51 9.60 InM 32 0.971 <0.001 -0.8917 3.0080 1.1 421.4 InTL 31 0.968 <0.001 4.1385 0.9279 86.0 523.0 InFL 31 0.973 <0.001 4.0802 0.9030 80.0 469.0 InSL 32 0.972 <0.001 4.0001 0.9133 74.0 442.0 Hyporhamphus capensis 115.4 201 2.00 3.12 InM 20 0.917 <0.001 -0.8566 2.3307 1.8 7.2 InTL 20 0.925 <0.001 4.2324 0.7447 109.0 165.0 InFL 9 0.964 <0.001 4.1158 0.8176 111.0 160 0 InSL 20 0.928 <0.001 4.1290 0.7361 98.0 147.0 Beryx splendens 126.2 234 7.30 13.00 InM 40 0.955 <0.001 -6.8939 5.2332 32.9 775.6 InTL 37 0.949 <0.001 1 .7359 1 .6228 142.0 368.0 InFL 35 0.970 <0.001 1 .6282 1 .5904 122.0 302.0 InSL 40 0.959 <0.001 1 .6009 1 .5535 110.0 274.0 Hoplostethus atlanticus 127.2 230 3.50 17.00 InM 68 0.957 <0.001 0.0755 2.6679 19.3 2000.0 InTL 47 0.942 <0.001 3.8943 0.8074 160.0 450.0 InFL 48 0.947 <0.001 3.5864 0.8751 130.0 401.0 InSL 65 0.958 <0.001 3.4264 0.8935 94.0 353.0 Hoptostethus mediterraneus 127.4 230 3.70 10.20 InM 41 0.984 <0.001 -4.1068 3.7324 2.4 81.0 InTL 44 0.985 <0.001 2.6239 1.1125 61.0 176.0 InFL 29 0.964 <0.001 2.3748 1.1468 60.0 149.0 InSL 41 0.983 <0.001 2.2660 1.1370 45.0 130.0 Diretmus argenteus 130.2 232 4.00 10.00 InM 17 0.992 <0.001 -3.1053 3.1983 3.9 70.0 InTL 8 0.975 <0.001 2.3245 1.1079 43.0 129.0 InSL 18 0.987 <0.001 2.0225 1.1861 38.0 114.0 Zeus capensis 138.4 245 1.15 3.10 InM 86 0.934 <0.001 1.3260 5.3045 3.1 4230.0 InTL 86 0.928 <0.001 4.1536 1.8033 58.0 640.0 InSL 86 0.933 <0.001 3.8976 1.8401 49.0 520.0 Allocyttus verrucosus 139.2 246 2.15 7.70 InM 57 0.952 <0.001 1 .2203 2.9898 29.6 1152.6 246 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InTL 56 0.952 <0.001 3.8561 1 .0520 109.0 360.0 InSL 54 0.951 <0.001 3.6589 1.0583 88.0 296.0 Neocyttus rtiomboidalis 139.3 246 2.30 6.10 InM 80 0.908 <0.001 1.1548 3.1745 37.9 948.5 InTL 77 0.901 <0.001 3.9818 1.0245 115.0 355.0 InSL 77 0.907 <0.001 3.7459 1.0521 97.0 241.0 Oreosoma atlanticum 139.4 246 2.40 3.40 InM 20 0.850 <0.001 1.0119 3.3968 51.3 148.3 InTL 20 0.866 <0.001 3.9580 1 .0845 130.0 191.0 InSL 20 0.874 <0.001 3.6456 1.1840 103.0 158.0 Macroramphosus scolopax 147.2 256 0.50 1.35 InM 25 0.829 <0.001 1 .6579 3.3982 0.7 24.9 InTL 25 0.836 <0.001 4.5161 1.1802 48.0 163.0 InSL 17 0.797 <0.001 4.3807 1.4884 43.0 146.0 Scorpaena scrota 149.21 262 9.60 16.50 InM 14 0.918 <0.001 -3.0782 3.6688 158.4 1395.0 InTL 17 0.920 <0.001 2.2489 1 .3805 204.0 459.0 InSL 17 0.917 <0.001 1.9004 1.4152 156.0 365.0 Helicolenus dactylopterus 149.42 262 1.50 14.80 InM 171 0.982 <0.001 -3.2748 3.8463 0.2 1300.0 InTL 195 0.977 <0.001 2.6947 1 .2357 28.0 430 0 InFL 31 0897 <0.001 27294 1.1890 132.0 310.0 InSL 189 0.974 <0.001 2.4465 1.2453 21.0 360.0 Trachyscorpia capensis 149.44 262 4.10 17 00 InM 49 0.984 <0.001 -4.8178 4.2954 6.1 1050.0 InTL 48 0.983 <0.001 2.2304 1.3519 75.0 388.0 InSL 49 0.987 <0.001 1.9467 1 .3831 60.0 319.0 Coccotropsis gymnoderma 150.2 262 0.60 1.95 InM 26 0.958 <0.001 -1.4448 2.6628 0.0 1.5 InTL 26 0.985 <0.001 3.1226 0.9211 14 0 43.0 InSL 26 0.979 <0 001 2.8698 0.9303 11.0 34.0 Congiopodus spinifer 152.1 267 2.30 5.40 InM 45 0.919 <0.001 -0.0974 3.5938 10.5 362.3 InTL 46 0.923 <0.001 3.7990 1.1698 98.0 316.0 InSL 46 0.922 <0.001 3.5795 1.1951 82.0 268.0 Chelidonichthys capensis 157.1 268 0.70 9.00 InM 110 0.989 <0.001 -0.6257 41191 0.2 2990.0 InTL 111 0.989 <0.001 3.6942 1 .3392 26.0 640 0 InFL 102 0.988 <0.001 3.7090 1 .2954 25.0 615.0 InSL 110 0.989 <0.001 34589 1 .3564 21.0 530.0 Chelidonichthys kumu 157.2 268 2.10 5.50 InM 30 0.960 <0 001 -0.0298 3.5007 6.8 425.0 InTL 30 0.965 <0 001 3.8289 1.1816 87.0 3520 InFL 24 0.956 <0.001 3.7446 1.2066 85.0 336.0 InSL 30 0.965 <0.001 3.6007 1.1972 70.0 288.0 Chelidonichthys queketti 157.3 268 1.65 4.90 InM 80 0.911 <0.001 0.1970 3.5615 6.8 371.9 InTL 80 0.904 <0.001 3.9901 1 .0576 91.0 342.0 InFL 48 0.872 <0.001 3.8791 1.1905 89.0 331.0 InSL 80 0.903 <0 001 3.7635 1.1811 74.0 283.0 Peristedion weberi 158.1 268 1.80 4.60 InM 22 0.986 <0.001 -1 .3252 3.1431 1.7 32.8 InTL 23 0.984 <0.001 3.6197 1 .0884 71.0 199 0 InFL 18 0.947 <0.001 3.6380 1 .0579 124.0 194.0 InSL 23 0.984 <0.001 3.4720 1.1065 62.0 178 0 Satyrichthys adeni 158.2 268 2.50 5.50 InM 14 0.850 <0.001 -1 .6530 4.4807 62.4 605.3 InTL 15 0 963 <0 001 3.4109 1.4800 112.0 3970 InFL 11 0.806 <0.001 3.9459 1.0995 223.0 357.0 InSL 15 0.957 <0 001 3.2950 1.4677 98.0 347.0 Psychrolutes macrocephalus 160.4 279 3.00 7.10 InM 47 0.958 <0 001 -6.4886 6.8433 3.2 735.3 InTL 38 0.943 <0 001 1.7197 2.0775 580 300.0 InSL 44 0.960 <0.001 1.4486 2.1144 49.0 257.0 Acanthistius sebastoides 166.1 284 1.70 11.76 InM 68 0.992 <0 001 -2 8205 35773 0.6 497 0 InTL 68 0.993 <0.001 2.7214 1.1688 32.0 291 0 InSL 67 0.992 <0001 24991 1.1758 26.0 237.0 Anthias squamipinnis 166.9 284 1.30 4.10 InM 12 0993 <0.001 -2.1536 3.5808 0.3 21.5 InTL 19 0.977 <0 001 3.0585 1.2210 30.0 133.0 InFL 20 0.981 <0.001 2.9034 1.1902 25.0 103.0 InSL 19 0.987 <0.001 2.6723 1.2466 20.0 86.0 Cephalopholis sonnerati 166.29 284 5.00 12.00 InM 25 0.949 <0.001 -4.6817 4.8982 38.6 1630.0 InTL 25 0.947 <0.001 2.2345 1.5668 132.0 465.0 InSL 25 0.948 <0.001 1.9417 1.6084 105.0 388.0 Epinephelus andersoni 166.34 284 9.50 17.40 InM 12 0.975 <0.001 -4.3627 4.3663 205.3 2600.0 InTL 35 0.967 <0.001 2.1100 1.5466 260.0 751 .0 InSL 33 0.963 <0.001 1.8546 1 .5628 208.0 615.0 Epinephelus fasciatus 166.39 284 6.10 10.40 InM 34 0.935 <0.001 -3.9640 4.5538 70.0 738.9 InTL 40 0.924 <0.001 2.5257 1.4586 177.0 371.0 InSL 40 0.923 <0.001 2.2618 1.4849 142.0 305.0 Epinephelus marginatus 166.43 284 3.33 18.34 InM 31 0.985 <0.001 -3.2248 4.1484 28.4 9800.0 InTL 39 0.989 <0.001 2.7609 1.3124 91.0 800.0 InSL 35 0.989 <0.001 2.4517 1.3610 73.0 695.0 Epinephelus rivulatus 166.60 284 4.70 11.40 InM 14 0.973 <0.001 0.1985 2.5411 61.8 542.8 InTL 40 0.945 <0.001 3.4641 0.9825 156.0 388.0 247 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InSL 40 0.948 <0.001 3.2274 0.9991 127.0 3180 Pnacanthus cruentatus 174.2 296 1.70 2.40 InM 12 0.906 <0.001 -2.7051 8.9250 8.3 188.0 InTL 12 0.909 <0.001 2.5790 3.1811 73.0 223.0 InSL 12 0.903 <0.001 2.3803 3.1497 60.0 178.0 Priacanthus hamrur 174.3 296 1.20 2.45 InM 24 0.916 <0.001 -0.8772 5.8796 1.0 184 0 InTL 24 0.913 <0.001 3.2599 2.0840 35.0 225.0 InFL 14 0.849 <0.001 3.3192 1.9957 66.0 215.0 InSL 24 0.924 <0.001 3.0559 2.0991 29.0 180.0 Epigonus cf robustus * 175.47 297 5.00 10.50 InM 52 0.917 <0.001 -3.0071 3.3735 7.7 165.6 InTL 39 0.919 <0.001 3.3174 0.9108 124.0 237.0 InFL 27 0787 <0.001 3.6098 0.7251 137.0 212.0 InSL 52 0.894 <0.001 3.0192 0.9501 84.0 190.0 Neoscombrops annectens 176.3 283 3.30 6.60 InM 24 0.789 <0.001 -1.1622 2.8443 3.3 135.8 InTL 23 0.829 <0.001 3.3802 0.9416 67.0 210.0 InFL 24 0843 <0 001 3.2794 0.9594 63.0 193.0 InSL 24 0.848 <0.001 3.0097 1 .0285 53.0 170.0 Synagrops japonicus 176.5 283 3.40 6.90 InM 43 0.979 <0.001 -5.7838 5.7597 4.4 218.1 InTL 41 0.985 <0.001 1 9957 1 .8428 71.0 252.0 InFL 42 0.983 <0.001 1 .9488 1 8134 690 233.0 InSL 44 0.983 <0 001 1 .7854 1.8319 580 210.0 Pomatomus saltatnx 178.1 303 1.70 17.10 InM 118 0.989 <0.001 -3.3162 3.9735 0.4 10800.0 InTL 117 0.985 <0.001 2.7714 1 .3222 38.0 1080.0 InFL 120 0.985 <0.001 2.6876 1.3138 36.0 958.0 InSL 112 0.982 <0.001 2.5395 1 .3281 31.0 880.0 Pomadasys commersonnii 179.10 320 3.53 18.80 InM 38 0.978 <0.001 -3.9346 3.9111 3.5 7570.0 InTL 37 0.979 <0.001 2.3764 1 .3705 68.0 932.0 InFL 38 0.979 <0 001 2.3022 1 .3638 63.0 861.0 InSL 40 0.978 <0.001 2.1062 1 .3829 53.0 758.0 Pomadasys olivaceum 179.17 320 2.05 10.65 InM 194 0.986 <0.001 -2.8269 3.3125 0.6 159.0 InTL 104 0.994 <0.001 2.7676 1.1117 37.0 228.0 InFL 194 0.992 <0.001 2.6940 1.1091 32.0 214.0 InSL 104 0.993 <0.001 2.5428 1.1077 30.0 181.0 Pomadasys striatum 179.18 320 4.50 9.00 InM 18 0.978 <0.001 -2.8563 3.4200 10.3 118.0 InTL 18 0.966 <0.001 2.6431 1.1749 84.0 195.0 InFL 18 0.961 <0.001 2.6204 1 1465 79.0 180.0 InSL 17 0.973 <0.001 2.4886 1.1369 68.0 150.0 Dinoperca petersi 180.1 284 7.20 17.60 InM 15 0.948 <0.001 -3.9016 4.1195 75.4 1880.0 InTL 26 0.949 <0.001 2.4297 1.3488 165.0 622.0 InFL 8 0.926 <0.001 2.0863 1 .4701 279.0 469.0 InSL 27 0.948 <0.001 2.2406 1 .3302 128.0 390.0 Aprion virescens 181.3 316 7.06 10.10 InM 14 0.615 0.019 -0.5986 3.7440 451.1 4470.0 InTL 13 0.684 0.010 2.9590 1 .5984 351.0 816.0 InFL 15 0.719 0.003 2.0715 1.9461 300.0 935.0 InSL 13 0.681 0010 2.6606 1 6217 270.0 655.0 Lutjanus kasmira 181.11 316 5.30 10.80 InM 35 0.858 <0.001 -1 .7770 3.1267 15.0 273.0 InTL 35 0.860 <0 001 3.1792 1 .0006 102.0 256.0 InFL 36 0.865 <0.001 3.1000 1 .0051 95.0 240.0 InSL 35 0.870 <0.001 2.8713 1 .0360 80.0 205.0 Lutjanus mssellii 181.17 316 8.30 10.70 InM 29 0.811 0.001 -1.3937 3.0047 152.8 381.1 InTL 28 0.849 <0.001 2.6734 1.2305 200.0 282.0 InFL 29 0.790 <0.001 3.0140 1.0545 188.0 270.0 InSL 28 0.861 <0.001 2.2741 1 .3007 155.0 227.0 Acanthopagrus berda 183.1 322 6.08 13.40 InM 29 0.924 <0.001 -2.6427 3.8630 76.7 2520.0 InTL 29 0.953 <0.001 2.9485 1.2152 177.0 500.0 InFL 29 0.949 <0.001 2.8224 1 .2327 161.0 468.0 InSL 29 0.949 <0.001 2.6494 1.2449 138.0 404.0 Argyrozona argyrozona 183.5 322 4.60 20.80 InM 100 0.989 <0.001 -2.8595 3.4757 14.0 2020.0 InTL 109 0.991 <0.001 2.6267 1 .2374 100.0 612.0 InFL 111 0.990 <0.001 2.5393 1 .2398 93.0 565.0 InSL 110 0.990 <0.001 2.3076 1 .2755 78.0 500.0 Boopsoidea inomata 183.6 322 1.71 11.30 InM 36 0.993 <0.001 -2.6235 3.5332 0.6 387.0 InTL 36 0.995 <0.001 2.8837 1.1495 36.0 292.0 InFL 36 0.995 <0.001 2.8053 1.1340 33.0 259.0 InSL 36 0.994 <0.001 2.6233 1.1469 28.0 225.0 Cheimerius nufar 183.7 322 3.13 18.00 InM 124 0.995 <0.001 -2.6715 3.7714 6.2 4100.0 InTL 101 0.995 <0.001 2.7516 1.2848 76.0 613.0 InFL 159 0.995 <0.001 2.6789 1.2636 70.0 565.0 InSL 102 0.995 <0.001 2.4918 1 .2834 59.0 484.0 Chrysoblephus anglicus 183.8 322 9.02 13.86 InTL 22 0.849 <0.001 2.3476 1.5598 302.0 647.0 InFL 24 0.845 <0.001 2.0359 1 .6208 251 .0 543.0 InSL 20 0.818 <0.001 2.2472 1.4828 215.0 480.0 248 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) Chrysoblephus cristiceps 183.9 322 5.00 15.40 InM 21 0.985 <0.001 -2.4683 3.6111 25.4 1460.0 InTL 22 0.988 <0.001 2.7867 1 .2051 114.0 475.0 InFL 23 0988 <0.001 2.7742 1.1592 104.0 420.0 InSL 21 0.987 <0.001 2.6026 1.1763 88.0 325.0 Chrysoblephus gibbiceps 183.10 322 8.06 16.72 InM 21 0.965 <0.001 -2.8673 4 1127 378.0 5400.0 InTL 22 0.925 <0.001 3.0733 1 2208 257.0 674.0 InFL 29 0.967 <0.001 2.2199 1.4872 203.0 580.0 InSL 19 0.959 <0 001 2.0496 1.5130 200.0 517.0 Chrysoblephus laticeps 183.11 322 1.80 15.54 InM 18 0.989 <0.001 -2.1876 3.6243 0.6 1870.0 InTL 18 0.990 <0.001 3.0819 1.1049 39.0 436.0 InFL 20 0.988 <0.001 2.9689 1.1177 36.5 470.0 InSL 18 0.989 <0.001 2.8384 1.1156 30.5 351.0 Chrysoblephus punlceus 183.13 322 6.90 14.90 InM 67 0.977 <0.001 -3.9863 4 3213 74.1 1900.0 InTL 145 0.959 <0.001 2 0838 1.5674 163.0 554.0 InFL 149 0.970 <0 001 2.0828 1 4905 140.0 447 0 InSL 145 0.970 <0.001 1 .9020 1.5137 121.0 396 0 Cymatoceps nasutus 183.15 322 3.50 21.00 InM 23 0.995 <0.001 -3.0386 4.491 5 13.5 44500.0 InTL 25 0.993 <0.001 2.6992 1.4427 92.0 1063.0 InFL 29 0.993 <0.001 2.6217 1 4342 86 0 9500 InSL 26 0.992 <0.001 2.4771 1.4374 73.0 8350 Diplodus cervinus 183.16 322 2.00 11.50 InM 38 0.990 <0.001 -3.1946 4.3210 1.0 2170 0 InTL 47 0.990 <0.001 2.6749 1 3999 41 .0 490.0 InFL 47 0.990 <0 001 2.5582 1 .3973 360 433 0 InSL 47 0.989 <0.001 2.4006 1 4009 33.0 380.0 Diptodus sargus 183.17 322 1.20 9.50 InM 85 0.985 <0.001 -2.2919 39839 0.2 875.0 InTL 86 0988 <0 001 2.9528 1 3053 25.0 3700 InFL 87 0987 <0.001 2.8631 1 .2738 22.0 320.0 InSL 86 0.989 <0.001 2.7027 1 .2934 19.0 280.0 Gymnocrotaphus curvidens 183.18 322 2.30 10.62 InM 16 0995 <0.001 -3.0158 42606 2.0 1400.0 InTL 16 0996 <0.001 2.7704 1.3158 50.0 3790 InFL 16 0.996 <0.001 2.7109 1 .3063 47.0 3490 InSL 16 0.995 <0.001 2 5170 1 .3342 40.0 3050 Lithognathus aureti 183.19 322 9.14 13.44 InTL 20 0.752 <0.001 2.1736 1 .6523 355.0 9550 InFL 21 0.749 <0.001 2.2109 1 6041 325.0 8650 InSL 21 0.752 <0.001 1 .9708 1 .6551 290.0 790.0 Lithognathus lithognathus 183 20 322 1.53 14.00 InM 22 0 989 <0.001 -1 .9568 3.7215 0.8 2250.0 InTL 23 0.983 <0 001 3 0517 1 2837 39.0 747.0 InFL 25 0982 <0 001 29568 1 .2930 36 0 785.0 InSL 22 0 989 <0.001 2 8598 1.2458 31.0 450.0 Lithognathus mormyrus 183.21 322 3.06 9 60 InM 30 0.979 <0.001 -3.8196 45715 3.2 520.0 InTL 32 0.989 <0 001 2.5695 1 .4520 63.0 316.0 InFL 31 0.988 <0.001 2.5328 1.4106 59.0 277.0 InSL 32 0.989 <0001 2 3821 1.4136 50 0 244.0 Pachymetopon aeneum 183.22 322 5.28 12.90 InM 30 0.977 <0.001 -3.7273 4.2177 26.9 1000.0 InTL 32 0.977 <0.001 2.2451 1 4972 120.0 430.0 InFL 30 0 982 <0.001 2.0752 1 5209 106.0 390 0 InSL 30 0 981 <0.001 1 .8933 1 .5425 93.0 340.0 Pachymetopon grande 183.24 322 9.00 14.32 InTL 10 0.895 <0.001 3.1303 1.1747 285.0 496.0 InFL 26 0.825 <0.001 3.1947 1 0899 256.0 447 0 InSL 9 0.908 <0 001 2.5937 1 2955 225.0 400.0 Pagellus bellottil 183.25 322 1.98 10.40 InM 110 0996 <0 001 -23066 32525 1.0 196.4 InTL 111 0.996 <0 001 3.0488 1.0480 44.0 245.0 InFL 109 0996 <0.001 30191 0.9974 42.0 216.0 InSL 111 0.995 <0.001 28570 1.0178 36.0 188.0 Petrus rupestris 183.26 322 2.00 22.26 InM 30 0.984 <0.001 -2.6959 42555 3.3 40200.0 InTL 32 0 982 <0.001 2.7241 1.4547 58.0 1367.0 InFL 34 0.982 <0.001 2.6586 1.4440 55.0 1260.0 InSL 31 0.979 <0.001 2 4803 1.4686 47.0 1160.0 Polysteganus praeorbitalis 183.31 322 6.50 17.46 InM 30 0.975 <0.001 -3.1789 4.2366 126.0 4910.0 InTL 33 0.983 <0.001 2.3307 1 .5655 202.0 893.0 InFL 44 0.963 <0.001 2.3065 1 .5269 181.0 785.0 InSL 31 0.983 <0.001 1 9578 1 .6255 156.0 720.0 Polysteganus undulosus 183.32 322 8.70 21.00 InM 31 0.960 <0.001 -5.3898 4.8594 200.0 9800.0 InTL 40 0.962 <0.001 2.0412 1 .5926 265.0 853.0 InFL 66 0.972 <0.001 1 9453 1.5770 221.0 770.0 InSL 31 0.955 <0.001 1.6266 1 .6608 2000 700.0 Porcostoma dentata 183.33 322 2.50 8.92 InM 19 0 988 <0.001 -1 .8062 3.7017 4.0 601.0 InTL 31 0982 <0.001 2.9002 1.2896 57.0 311.0 InFL 29 0.983 <0.001 2.8434 1.2806 54.0 290.0 InSL 29 0.982 <0.001 2.6549 1.3013 45.0 252.0 Pterogymnus laniarius 183.34 322 2.22 15.40 InM 85 0.988 <0.001 -2.8743 3.5378 1.1 760.0 249 Table 1 cont SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InTL 103 0.991 <0.001 2.7829 1.1478 46.0 400.0 InFL 129 0.985 <0.001 2.6935 1.1456 42.0 347.0 InSL 85 0.979 <0.001 2.5570 1.1362 39.0 270.0 Rhabdosargus globiceps 183.35 322 3.10 13.64 InM 28 0.987 <0.001 -2.2766 3.5786 4.6 1060.0 InTL 31 0.988 <0.001 2.9802 1.1818 71.0 428.0 InFL 29 0.987 <0.001 2.9163 1.1642 67.0 378.0 InSL 29 0.984 <0.001 2.7300 1.1845 57.0 340.0 Rhabdosargus holubi 183.36 322 2.37 9.50 InM 79 0.973 <0.001 -2.1890 3.7008 3.1 376.6 InTL 79 0.976 <0.001 3.0013 1.2097 58.0 298.0 InFL 80 0.973 <0.001 2.9300 1.1760 54.0 277.0 InSL 79 0.974 <0.001 2.7547 1.1936 47.0 225.0 Rhabdosargus sarba 183.37 322 6.18 1440 InM 17 0.984 <0.001 -3.9207 4.5908 87.8 3635.0 InTL 17 0.970 <0.001 2.5979 1.4319 186.0 571.0 InFL 18 0.968 <0.001 2.3820 1 .4742 160.0 590.0 InSL 14 0.981 <0.001 2.1714 1 .4924 134.0 432.0 Sarpa salpa 183.39 322 1.11 8.61 InM 78 0.989 <0.001 -2.4364 4.1081 0.3 921.0 InTL 78 0.989 <0.001 3.0215 1 .3002 31.0 3980 InFL 76 0.988 <0.001 2.9606 1 .2661 29.0 352.0 InSL 78 0.989 <0.001 2.7712 1.3195 25.0 320.0 Sparodon durbanensis 183.40 322 2.00 15.10 InM 34 0.981 <0.001 -4.0012 5.0275 0.7 16200.0 InTL 42 0.991 <0.001 2.3968 1 .6925 32.0 950.0 InFL 41 0.991 <0.001 2.3062 1.6846 30.0 895.0 InSL 41 0.991 <0.001 2.1244 1 .7077 26.0 805.0 Spondyliosoma emarginatum 183.41 322 2.75 10.50 InM 46 0.991 <0.001 -3.3160 4.0623 2.3 865.6 InTL 45 0.993 <0.001 2.7207 1 .2765 53.0 335.0 InFL 46 0.992 <0.001 2.6403 1 .2673 480 318 0 InSL 46 0.992 <0.001 2.4590 1 .2862 400 2780 Spicara axillaris 184.2 323 5.80 12.00 InM 40 0.953 <0.001 -2.5549 3.5276 32.0 430.8 InTL 41 0.962 <0.001 2.6917 1 .2561 132 0 3330 InFL 41 0.964 <0.001 2.5799 1 .2669 120 0 299.0 InSL 41 0.967 <0.001 2.3640 1.3016 101.0 2620 Gymnocranius griseus 185.2 324 5.70 9.20 InM 26 0.904 <0.001 -1 .6537 3.7295 94.1 770.0 InTL 22 0.894 <0.001 3.1681 1.2090 175.0 350.0 InFL 26 0.865 <0.001 3.0960 1.1845 154.0 310.0 InSL 20 0.820 <0.001 3.1351 1.0992 136.0 271.0 Lethrinus elongatus 185.6 324 580 10.50 InM 32 0.937 <0.001 -1 .6472 3.5940 77.1 664.7 InTL 38 0.947 <0.001 3.2307 1.1844 180.0 3600 InFL 38 0.952 <0.001 3.1028 1.1887 162.0 320.0 InSL 38 0.948 <0 001 2.8963 1.2295 143.0 2830 Lethrinus mahsenoides 185.12 324 6.10 9.80 InM 21 0.955 <0.001 -2.3207 3.6431 79.1 412.8 InTL 21 0.945 <0.001 2.9017 1.1979 165.0 280.0 InFL 23 0.939 <0.001 2.8165 1.1932 1480 2600 InSL 23 0.937 <0 001 2.5501 1.2510 125.0 230.0 Lethrinus nebulosus 185.13 324 7.50 15.78 InM 16 0.902 <0.001 -4.5153 4.7318 160.0 5500 0 InTL 19 0.927 <0.001 2 3614 1.5188 241 .0 732.0 InFL 20 0.928 <0 001 2.2034 1 .5395 213.0 690.0 InSL 17 0.920 <0.001 2.1613 1 .4974 179.0 560.0 Monodactylus falciformis 193.2 328 1.95 7.42 InM 17 0.992 <0.001 -2.0615 3.5735 1.5 183.1 InTL 17 0.992 <0.001 2.9500 1.1846 43.0 207.0 InFL 17 0.993 <0.001 2.9443 1.1438 41 .0 189.0 InSL 17 0.990 <0.001 2.6856 1.1790 33.0 156.0 Parupeneus rubescens 196.10 327 1.80 5.20 InM 14 0.978 <0.001 -1 .2465 5.2359 6.8 849.8 InTL 14 0.984 <0.001 3.3267 1.7115 79.0 400.0 InFL 14 0.984 <0.001 3.1800 1.7298 71.0 354.0 InSL 14 0.984 <0.001 3.0509 1 .7535 63.0 320.0 SHIago sihama 198 3 299 4.95 9.20 InM 15 0.982 <0.001 -4.0073 3.7854 7.5 78.6 InFL 14 0.971 <0.001 2.6979 1.2035 99.0 207.0 Argyrosomus hololepidotus * 199.1 326 1.90 37.50 InM 138 0.992 <0.001 -4.2899 4.0761 0.4 48000.0 InTL 153 0.994 <0.001 2.3958 1 .3764 32.0 1701.0 InSL 99 0.994 <0.001 2.1726 1.3932 25.0 1370.0 Argyrosomus thorpei 199 2 326 8.40 21.20 InM 39 0.985 <0.001 -5.1699 4.2866 47.0 3300.0 InTL 55 0.988 <0.001 1.8866 1.5083 165.0 682.0 InSL 45 0.979 <0.001 1.4951 1 .5922 125.0 582.0 Atractoscion aequidens 1993 326 3.20 23.60 InM 37 0.991 <0.001 -4.4887 4.2412 1.9 5450.0 InTL 38 0.989 <0.001 2.2440 1.4816 58.0 1060.0 InFL 78 0 990 <0.001 2.0513 1 .551 1 140.0 998.0 InSL 33 0.989 <0.001 2.0193 1.5034 49.0 900.0 Atrobucca nibe 1994 326 13 30 17.50 InM 30 0.900 <0.001 -2.9180 3.3387 320.0 940.0 InTL 30 0.926 <0.001 3.0596 1 .0302 310.0 428.0 Johnius spp 199.5 & 326 430 11.12 InM 33 0.985 <0.001 -4.7637 4.1342 3.8 161.0 199.6 InTL 31 0.987 <0.001 2.5136 1.1968 74.0 210.0 250 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InSL 32 0.990 <0.001 2 2116 1 .2394 59.0 178.0 Otolithes ruber 199.7 326 4.50 15.90 InM 47 0.993 <0.001 -4.5083 40677 5.2 915.0 InTL 61 0.993 <0.001 2.3777 1.3346 82.0 435.0 InSL 61 0.993 <0.001 2.0227 1.4112 65.0 370.0 Umbrina canadensis 199.8 326 2.91 20.40 InM 191 0.989 <0.001 -3.3477 3.7972 1.7 7900.0 InTL 188 0.986 <0.001 2.7120 1.2217 53.0 836.0 InSL 193 0.989 <0.001 2.3387 1.2918 49.0 695.0 Secutor insidiator 201.4 311 1.00 4.10 InM 19 0.991 <0.001 -1 .2441 3.1939 0.3 34.0 InTL 20 0.993 <0.001 3.4116 0.9697 32.0 125.0 InFL 20 0 992 <0.001 3.3460 0.9262 30.0 112.0 InSL 20 0.992 <0.001 3.2390 0.9102 27.0 100.0 Chaetodon blackbumii 205.3 338 1.60 4.60 InM 15 0.974 <0.001 -0.5043 2.8096 2.4 43.6 InTL 13 0.983 <0.001 3 3330 0.9832 45.0 122.0 InSL 13 0.983 <0.001 3.1030 1.0189 36.0 100.0 Chaetodon madagaskariensis 205.10 338 3.05 4.00 InM 13 0.779 0.002 0.4899 2.1904 18.6 33.5 InTL 14 0.779 0.001 3.8286 0.6396 91.0 110.0 InSL 14 0.903 <0.001 3.4918 0.7719 75.0 92.0 Brama brama 207.1 312 3.50 6.40 InM 43 0.772 <0.001 3.5947 2.1934 60.0 2290.0 InTL 43 0.787 <0.001 5 2987 0.5586 351.0 567.0 InFL 43 0.786 <0.001 4.8472 0.7262 255.0 478.0 InSL 41 0.813 <0.001 4.5684 0.8293 225.0 432 0 Emmelichthys nltidus nitidus 209.1 315 2.05 10.80 InM 42 0.983 <0.001 -2.4456 3 8311 2.3 710.0 InTL 40 0 983 <0.001 3.2242 1 .2005 70.0 419.0 InFL 41 0.944 <0 001 3.0719 1.2179 62.0 3720 InSL 42 0.982 <0.001 2.9903 1 .2366 57.0 3440 Plagiogeneion rubiginosus 209.3 315 3.90 12.20 InM 42 0.989 <0.001 -1 .8523 3 3924 16.6 740.8 InTL 41 0.988 <0.001 3 2357 1 0987 116.0 405.0 InFL 42 0.983 <0.001 3.1559 1.0710 104.0 360 0 InSL 42 0.985 <0.001 3.0353 1 .0847 95.0 330.0 Lichia amia 210.33 306 0.82 12.08 InM 32 0.993 <0.001 0.8917 3.5223 1.6 9200.0 InTL 27 0 995 <0.001 4.1860 1.1862 55.0 1200.0 InFL 34 0.994 <0.001 4.0675 1.1618 50.0 930.0 InSL 26 0.994 <0.001 3.9830 1.1415 44.0 770.0 Seriola lalandi 210.44 306 4.20 9.30 InM 18 0.936 <0.001 -0 3080 45509 570.0 19500 0 InTL 20 0.937 <0.001 3.7730 1 .5305 397.0 1368 0 InFL 27 0.917 <0.001 35386 1 .5884 351.0 1245 0 InSL 18 0.952 <0.001 3.4527 1.5919 314.0 11300 Tracbinotus africanus 210 47 306 2.25 11.90 InM 19 0.939 <0.001 -0.0839 3.5204 14.4 9950.0 InTL 26 0.943 <0.001 3 4006 1 4333 91.0 990.0 InFL 26 0.942 <0.001 3.2566 1.41 24 760 840.0 InSL 26 0.942 <0.001 3.1169- 1.4378 70.0 7830 Trachurus del ago a 210.51 306 1.69 6.10 InM 21 0.935 <0.001 -1 .3398 3.1750 1.2 78.1 InTL 21 0.943 <0.001 3.4473 1 .0037 52.0 188.0 InFL 21 0.949 <0.001 33531 09969 47.0 167.0 InSL 21 0.946 <0.001 3.2154 1 .0229 41.0 151.0 Trachurus trachurus 210.52 306 0.80 12 60 InM 223 0.991 <0.001 -1 .5889 3.1973 0.1 910.0 InTL 220 0.992 <0.001 3 3550 1 0627 25.0 485.0 InFL 200 0.991 <0.001 3.2355 1 .0729 38.0 435.0 InSL 217 0.992 <0.001 3.1560 1 .0692 19.0 403.0 Cheilodactylus fasciatus 215.1 351 1.65 6.50 InM 43 0.981 <0001 -0.8490 3 8105 4.3 423.1 InTL 48 0.980 <0.001 3.4900 1.2409 74.0 325.0 InFL 48 0.980 <0.001 3 3867 1.2518 64.0 293.0 InSL 48 0 979 <0.001 3 2653 1.2496 59.0 2560 Cheilodactylus pixi 215.2 351 1.52 4.80 InM 62 0.958 <0.001 -0.8024 3.7640 1.9 111.6 InTL 61 0 964 <0 001 3.4949 1.1881 52.0 189 0 InFL 60 0.965 <0 001 3.4167 1.1785 48.0 175.0 InSL 62 0.964 <0.001 3.2627 1.2004 41.0 154.0 Chirodactylus brachydactylus 215.3 351 1.11 6.86 InM 40 0.978 <0.001 -0 8681 3.9806 1.3 1210.0 InTL 50 0.985 <0.001 3.3956 1.3633 44.0 445.0 InFL 50 0.984 <0 001 3.3228 1.3387 39.0 392.0 InSL 50 0 983 <0.001 3.1709 1.3577 35.0 356.0 Chirodactylus grandis 215.4 351 1.00 9.10 InM 31 0.990 <0.001 -1.1818 4.3681 0.6 8500.0 InTL 31 0.991 <0.001 3.3759 1.4382 36.0 870.0 InFL 31 0.991 <0.001 3.3025 1.4260 33.0 760.0 InSL 31 0.989 <0 001 3.1685 1.4352 29.0 690.0 Oreochromis mossambicus 218.1 344 2.20 7.26 InM 15 0.996 <0.001 -2.6777 4.0652 1.8 258.0 InTL 15 0.996 <0.001 2.9087 1.2679 52.0 233.0 InSL 15 0.995 <0.001 2.6008 1.2940 39.0 182.0 Chromis dimidiata 219.14 346 1.60 3.60 InM 15 0.963 <0.001 -2.6248 3.8032 0.4 7.8 InTL 22 0.920 <0 001 2.9841 1.1722 30.0 89.0 InFL 22 0.962 <0.001 2.6949 1.1880 24.0 66.0 251 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) InSL 22 0.962 <0.001 2.4709 1.2161 19.0 55.0 Stethojulis interrupts 220.56 358 0.75 1.80 InM 19 0.819 <0.001 0 5643 2.8607 0.6 12.5 InTL 19 0.818 <0.001 3.9809 0.9256 36.0 100.0 InSL 19 0822 <0.001 3.7953 0.9282 30.0 82.0 Liza dumerilii 222.3 355 4.10 9.49 InM 28 0.990 <0.001 -4.0450 4.5787 10.9 394.0 InTL 26 0.990 <0.001 2.6806 1.4525 132.0 349.0 InFL 28 0.990 <0.001 2.6087 1.4411 102.0 317.0 InSL 28 0.989 <0.001 2.4115 1.4664 87.0 275.0 Liza richardsonii 222.7 355 3.00 10.50 InM 63 0.980 <0.001 -2.7832 3.9285 5.6 725.0 InTL 63 0.986 <0.001 2.8651 1 .3398 79.0 392.0 InFL 61 0987 <0.001 2.7959 1 .3227 73.0 353.0 InSL 63 0.986 <0.001 2.6397 1 .3355 62.0 3100 Liza tricuspidens 2228 355 3.29 12.00 InM 39 0985 <0.001 -2.7780 4 1431 11.0 2009.0 InTL 40 0988 <0.001 2.9047 1.4008 106 0 6000 InFL 40 0.988 <0.001 2.8748 1.3643 980 5370 InSL 40 0989 <0.001 2.6807 1 .3922 840 475.0 Mugil cephalus 222.10 355 1.69 13 00 InM 28 0988 <0001 -2.2450 3.8509 1.0 4460 0 InTL 36 0.990 <0.001 3.0095 1 .3508 450 736.0 InFL 36 0.989 <0.001 2.9577 1.3165 430 651 0 InSL 30 0.993 <0 001 2.8420 1 .2733 37.0 576.0 Myxus capensis 222.11 355 582 12.25 InM 16 0.978 <0.001 -4.4324 47440 580 621 0 InTL 17 0.972 <0.001 2.7181 1.4148 187 0 482 0 InFL 17 0974 <0.001 2.631 1 1.4062 169.0 433 0 InSL 16 0.968 <0.001 2.3138 1 .4982 1460 327 0 Sphyraena acutipinnis 224.1 356 2.20 10 60 InM 74 0.991 <0.001 -2.6027 3 2193 1.0 200.4 InTL 73 0.996 <0.001 3.1980 1 .0836 58.0 3250 InFL 63 0993 <0.001 3.0792 1.1003 540 3020 InSL 73 0.996 <0.001 3.0586 1 .0706 31.0 2800 Halidesmus scapularis 227.1 376 0.90 2.10 InM 93 0.875 <0.001 -0.2321 3.2732 0.4 8.0 InTL 93 0.883 <0.001 4.2174 1 .3009 470 167 0 InSL 93 0.875 <0.001 4.1414 1.2812 440 166.0 Champsodon capensis 229.1 378 1.00 3.30 InM 92 0956 <0.001 -0.9515 4.0478 0.3 20.4 InTL 92 0.969 <0.001 3.5711 1 .3906 35.0 146.0 InFL 51 0894 <0.001 3.8519 0.9374 58.0 134.0 InSL 94 0.968 <0.001 3.3938 1 .3805 29.0 119.0 Uranoscopus archionema 230.2 383 700 11.94 InM 17 0.860 <0.001 -3.6907 3.8999 49.8 561 6 InTL 17 0.863 <0.001 2.5499 1 .2294 1460 300.0 InSL 17 0.865 <0.001 2.2804 1 2456 1150 240.0 Cremnochorites capensis 236.1 390 1.20 2.90 InM 38 0.942 <0.001 -2.1858 3.5954 0.3 5.4 InTL 38 0.951 <0.001 3.0261 1.1776 28.0 74.0 InSL 38 0.955 <0.001 2.7982 1.2135 22.0 61.0 Blennioclinus brachycephalus 237.1 393 0.60 1.60 InM 43 0.906 <0.001 1.2401 2.6583 0.7 18.6 InTL 43 0.923 <0.001 4.2399 0.8527 39.0 105 0 InSL 43 0931 <0.001 4.0903 0.8740 32.0 920 Cirrhibarbis capensis 237.7 393 0.70 3.60 InM 81 0.944 <0.001 -0.5675 3.8701 0.2 1580 InTL 82 0.950 <0.001 3.7371 1 .2285 30.0 240 0 InSL 82 0.951 <0.001 3.6097 1 .2331 26.0 210.0 Climacoporus navalis 237.8 393 0.80 1.60 InM 34 0.882 <0.001 -0.3632 2.3960 0.3 2.5 InTL 34 0.887 <0.001 3.7795 0.7673 32.0 63.0 InSL 34 0.883 <0.001 3.6492 0.7871 28.0 57.0 Clinus cottoides 237.14 393 0.80 2.40 InM 95 0.968 <0.001 -0.4853 3.6441 0.4 21.6 InTL 95 0.968 <0.001 3.6792 1.1705 32.0 134.0 InSL 92 0.968 <0.001 3.5307 1.1783 27.0 117.0 Clinus superciliosus 237.22 393 090 3.50 InM 93 0.972 <0.001 -0.0025 3.6710 0.5 90.4 InTL 95 0.939 <0.001 3.8448 1.1455 36.0 190.0 InSL 94 0970 <0.001 3.6459 1.1883 300 163.0 Clinus taurus 237.23 393 1.20 3.30 InM 16 0.980 <0.001 -0.1974 3.3735 2.1 61.5 InTL 16 0.968 <0.001 3.7091 1.0612 55.0 156.0 InSL 16 0.973 <0.001 3.5279 1 .0885 46.0 134.0 Clinus venustris 237.24 393 1.30 2.00 InM 19 0.861 <0.001 0.6717 2.3682 3.1 11.1 InTL 19 0.881 <0.001 4.0683 0.6896 68.0 96.0 InSL 19 0.695 <0.001 3.9678 0.5485 58.0 82.0 Pavoclinus gra minis 237 28 393 0.60 1.70 InM 46 0.925 <0.001 1 .5359 3.3163 0.4 23.5 InTL 46 0.929 <0.001 4.3322 1 .0429 37.0 129.0 InSL 46 0.929 <0.001 4.1737 1.0647 31.0 111.0 Pavoclinus pavo 237.34 393 0.65 1.20 InM 25 0.586 0.002 0.9280 2.1964 0.8 6.2 InTL 25 0.593 0.002 4.1890 0.6920 44.0 89.0 InSL 25 0.614 0.001 4.0246 0.7096 37.0 74.0 Paracallionymus costatus 239.6 399 1.30 3.20 InM 56 0.950 <0.001 -2.1618 4.6386 0.4 30.8 InTL 33 0.937 <0.001 3.1829 1.7661 40.0 176.0 InSL 55 0.950 <0.001 3.0171 1.6019 32.0 150.0 252 Table 1 cont. SPECIES SSF No. Nelson No. OD (mm) OD (mm) Y axis MIN MAX n r P a b MIN (y) (mm/g) MAX (y) (mm/g) Caffrogobius nudiceps 240.23 403 1.45 3.85 InM 15 0.978 <0 001 -2 3131 4.2793 0.5 160 InTL 16 0.970 <0.001 3.1174 1 2937 36.0 113.0 InSL 16 0.970 <0.001 2.9704 1 .2339 30.0 89.0 Caffrogobius saldanha 240.24 403 2.10 360 InM 16 0.816 <0.001 -1 .8877 3.1093 1.6 8.6 InTL 16 0.803 <0.001 3.2424 0.9350 53.0 89.0 InSL 16 0.802 <0.001 3.0095 0.9599 43.0 73.0 Sufflogobius bibarbatus 240.97 403 1.90 4.40 InM 66 0.932 <0.001 -1.1459 3.3309 3.2 39.2 InTL 66 0.941 <0.001 3.5201 1 .0564 72.0 159.0 InSL 68 0 941 <0.001 3.3355 1 .0302 60.0 125.0 Neoepinnula orientalis 247.4 412 4.30 7.10 InM 30 0.930 <0.001 -4.7986 4.8995 13.5 133.1 InTL 28 0.965 <0.001 2.7553 1 .3923 127.0 245.0 InFL 30 0.951 <0.001 2.6113 1 .4237 117.0 226.0 InSL 30 0.952 <0.001 2.4472 1.4651 106 0 210.0 Thyrsites atun 247.8 412 1.60 14.28 InM 61 0 994 <0.001 -1 .7389 3.9189 1.4 5040.0 InTL 53 0.980 <0.001 3 9602 1.1198 103.0 1070.0 InFL 41 0.983 <0.001 3.2164 1.4178 140.0 1000.0 InSL 42 0.974 <0.001 3.9209 1 .0753 97.0 9500 Lepidopus caudatus 248.4 413 1.50 8.50 InM 130 0.993 <0.001 -1 .9230 4.5316 0.9 1880.0 InTL 113 0985 <0.001 4.2069 1 .4239 120.0 2630.0 InFL 98 0.985 <0.001 4.2941 1 .3561 124.0 2330.0 InSL 115 0990 <0.001 4.1747 1.4071 115.0 2090.0 Trichiurus lepturus 248.6 413 2.10 8.20 InM 51 0.922 <0.001 -1 .3846 3.9336 3.7 370.0 InTL 49 0.952 <0.001 4.2215 1.4143 191 .0 835.0 InSL 26 0.749 <0.001 00062 3.6358 132.0 804.0 Scomber japonicus 249.11 414 1.00 7.50 InM 163 0.979 <0.001 -0.7220 4.0055 1.4 2600.0 InTL 151 0 986 <0 001 3.7840 1 2379 58.0 610.0 InFL 164 0.984 <0.001 3 7088 1 .2334 53.0 5600 InSL 164 0.984 <0.001 3.6437 1.2317 51.0 520.0 Schedophilus huttoni 254.6 423 15.74 20.38 InM 18 0.630 0.005 -2.0206 3.3702 960.0 3570.0 InTL 18 0.753 <0.001 2.7849 1.3159 551.0 840.0 InFL 18 0.731 <0.001 2.6356 1.3458 521.0 797.0 InSL 18 0.754 <0.001 2.2242 1.4510 457.0 7300 Stromateus fiatola 254.10 423 2.60 801 InM 53 0.979 <0 001 -1 .3839 3.5562 7.3 718.9 InTL 53 0.984 <0 001 3.1827 1.2418 77.0 335.0 InFL 53 0 908 <0 001 3.2040 1.1276 72.0 294.0 InSL 53 0.980 <0.001 2.9697 1.1821 60.0 260.0 Ariomma indica 255.1 420 1.05 4.90 InM 18 0.987 <0.001 -0.8146 3.1036 0.4 71.7 InTL 18 0991 <0 001 3.3345 1 .0924 29.0 162.0 InFL 18 0.991 <0.001 3.2474 1 .0380 25.0 135.0 InSL 18 0.987 <0 001 3.0635 1 .0836 20.0 116.0 Cubiceps caeruleus 255.4 420 4.60 7.30 InM 34 0.939 <0.001 -1.8518 3.5609 38.4 216.3 InTL 31 0.958 <0.001 3.2547 1.1793 163.0 275.0 InFL 34 0.962 <0.001 3.1426 1.1713 145.0 240.0 InSL 34 0.966 <0.001 2 9482 1.2312 130.0 220.0 Psenes whiteleggii 255.12 420 5.44 7.22 InM 20 0.957 <0.001 -3.0746 3.8248 31.4 92.0 InTL 20 0.942 <0.001 2.8812 1 1940 133.0 188.0 InFL 20 0.931 <0.001 2.6644 1 .2365 116.0 165.0 InSL 20 0.930 <0.001 2.4220 1 .3025 104.0 147.0 Citharoides macrolepis 258 1 433 5.00 7 40 InM 14 0.934 <0.001 -2.3015 3.5540 28.9 123.3 InTL 14 0.944 <0.001 3.2581 1.1045 154.0 243.0 InSL 14 0.941 <0.001 2.9955 1.1530 128.0 203.0 Amoglossus capensis 259.1 434 1.80 3.20 InM 44 0.920 <0.001 -0.5850 3.8753 4.7 44.7 InTL 42 0 985 <0.001 3.7598 1 .2361 84.0 172.0 InSL 44 0941 <0.001 3.5203 1 .2741 69.0 144.0 Cynoglossus capensis 261.3 436 1.52 5.05 InM 103 0.982 <0.001 -2.1634 4.1337 0.8 101.0 InTL 103 0.985 <0.001 3.3518 1 3272 47.0 241 .0 InSL 59 0.982 <0.001 3.1681 1 371 8 56.0 206.0 Cynoglossus zanzibarensis 261.9 436 1.42 7.10 InM 127 0.896 <0.001 -0.8904 3.5417 0.8 417.7 InTL 125 0.932 <0.001 3.6784 1 .2226 50.0 397.0 InSL 124 0.921 <0.001 3.5951 1 .2297 43.0 372.0 Austroglossus microlepis 262.2 437 2.15 500 InM 34 0966 <0.001 -0.0803 3.741 1 17.6 400.0 InTL 34 0 969 <0.001 4.1534 1.1042 145.0 365.0 InSL 34 0.971 <0.001 4.0273 1.1151 132.0 328.0 Austroglossus pectoralis 262.3 437 2.09 6.10 InM 48 0973 <0.001 -0.5547 3.7281 8.2 518.0 InTL 48 0.977 <0.001 3.9708 1.1571 120.0 412.0 InSL 42 0 977 <0.001 3.8345 1.1681 108.0 307.0 Solea bleekeri 262.12 437 1.60 2.65 InM 17 0.839 <0.001 0.1224 3.6291 5.3 34.2 InTL 17 0 853 <0.001 3.9247 1 .0034 78.0 128 0 InSL 11 0.815 0.002 3.9449 0.7760 800 110.0 253 Plate 1. ELOPIDAE 43. A. Elops machnata SSF 36.2. Al. PEM 5836 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 86 mm TL. A2. PEM 14825 - L. 11.1 mm OD, 588 mm TL. ALBULIDAE 45. B. Albula vulpes SSF 38. 1 . B1 . PEM 6120 - L. 13.3 mm OD. B2. PEM 61 1 1 - R. 15 mm OD. C. Pterothrissus belloci SSF 38.2. Cl. PEM 1014 - L. 9.4 mm OD, 305 mm TL. C2. PEM 1014 - R. 9.44 mm OD, 300 mm TL. HALOSAURIDAE 46. D. Halosauropsis macrochir SSF 53.3. Dl. PEM 0952 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 77 mm HL. D2. PEM 0952 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 86 mm HL. E. Halosaurus ovenii SSF 53.4. El. PEM 14612 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 379 mm TL. E2. PEM 12422 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 435 mm TL. NOT AC ANTI II DAE 47. F. Notacanthus sexspinis SSF 52.1. FI. PEM 14904 (RUSI 35581) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 327 mm TL. F2. PEM 9065 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 395 mm TL. F3. PEM 14903 (RUSI 35566) - R. 1.7 mm OD, 365 mm TL. XENOCONGRIDAE 52. G. Kaupichthys sp. SSF 43.-. Gl. PEM 15624 - R. 1.35 mm OD, 121 mm TL. G2. PEM 15624 - L. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 2. MURAENIDAE 54. A. Gymnothorax eurostus SSF 41.10. Al. PEM 2853 - L. 1.75 mm OD, 193 mm TL. B. G. flavimarginatus SSF 41.12. Bl. PEM 14226- L. 4.2 mm OD, 730 mm TL. C. G. rueppelliae SSF 41.23. Cl. PEM 14543 (RUSI 31414) - R. 2.5 mm OD, 407 mm TL. D. G. undulatus SSF 41.24. Dl. PEM 14260 - R. 1.1 mm OD, 139 mm TL. D2. PEM 14229 - R. 3.6 mm OD, 420 mm TL. E. Uropterygius micropterus SSF 41.31. El. 0636H - L. 2.3 mm OD, 310 mm TL. NEMICHTHYIDAE 55. F. Avocettina acuticeps SSF 51.1. FI. PEM 0941 - R. 0.85 mm OD, c. 500 mm TL. G. Nemichthys curvirostris SSF 51.3. Gl. 1606H - R. 0.45 mm OD. G2. PEM 0963 - R. 0.55 mm OD, 1020 mm TL. G3. PEM 0963 - L. H. N. scolopaceus SSF 51.4. HI. PEM 13451 - L. 0.8 mm OD, 388 mm TL. H2. PEM 13446 - L. 1.2 mm OD, 725 mm TL. SYNAPIIOBRANCHIDAE 57. I. Diastobranchus capensis SSF 46.1. II. PEM 13868 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 485 mm TL. 12. PEM 14488 (RUSI 31463) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 651 mm TL. 13. PEM 13695 (RUSI 28280) - R. 3.4 mm OD, 760 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (' — ')• Plate 3. SYNAPIIOB RANCHI DAE 57 ctd. A. Dysomma anguillare SSF 46.2. Al. PEM 0226 - R. 3.45 mm OD, 400 mm TL. B. Synaphohranchus affinis SSF 46.6. Bl. PEM 14947 (RUSI 35604) - L. 2.6 mm OD, 445 mm TL. B2. PEM 14946 (RUSI 35604) - L. 3.2 mm OD, 489 mm TL. B3. PEM 14946 - R. C. S. kaupii SSF 46.7. Cl. PEM 13693 (RUSI 28277) - R. 2.4 mm OD, 455 mm TL. C2. PEM 14003 - R. 2.6 mm OD, 498 mm TL. C3. PEM 13694 (RUSI 28278) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 508 mm TL. OPIIICHTIIIDAE 58. D. Muraenichlhys gymnotus SSF 42.10. Dl. PEM 10426- L. 1.0 mm OD, 237 mm TL. E. Ophisurus serpens SSF 42.23. El. PEM 2146 - L. 1.05 mm OD, 253 mm TL. E2. PEM 12820 (RUSI 28276) - R. 2.4 mm OD, 695 mm TL. E3. PEM 0302 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 585 mm TL. NETT ASTOMATI DAE 59. F. Nettastoma parviceps SSF 47.1. FI. PEM 14912 (RUSI 35567) - 3.5 mm OD, 490 mm TL. CONCRIDAE 62. G. Ariosoma mauritianum SSF 40.1. G1.0285H- 6.58 mm OD, 278 mm TL. H. Bassanago albescens SSF 40.3. III. PEM 13795 (RUSI 28279) - 7.5 mm OD, 570 mm TL. H2. PEM 14207 - 9.8 mm OD, 723 mm TL. Scale bars 1 nun ( — ) or 0.1 mm (' — ')• Plate 4. CONGRIDAE 62 ctd. A. Bathyuroconger vicinus SSF 40.5. Al. PEM 14641 - 4.3 mm OD, 456 mm TL. A2. PEM 14640- 6.3 mm OD, 477 mm TL. A3. PEM 14620- 7.4 mm OD, 760 mm TL. B. Coloconger scholesi SSF 40.6. Bl. PEM 14895 (RUSI 35559) - R. 6.5 mm OD, 268 mm TL. B2. PEM 14894 (RUSI 35580) - R. 10.5 mm OD, 359 mm TL. C. Conger cinereus SSF 40.7. Cl. PEM 10347 - R. 5.7 mm OD, 630 mm TL. C2. PEM 0767 - L. 7.64 mm OD, 986 mm TL. D. C. wilsoni SSF 40.8. Dl. PEM 10427 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 178 mm TL. D2. PEM 10428 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 205 mm TL. D3. PEM 15211 - R. 7.16 mm OD, 735 mm TL. D4. PEM 15229 - R. 7.46 mm OD, 742 mm TL. E. Gnalhophis capensis SSF 40.9. El. PEM 12595 - L. 6.8 mm OD, 306 mm TL. E2. PEM 12750 (RUSI 28275) - L. 9.1 mm OD, 393 mm TL. F. Rhechias wallacei SSF 40.11. FI. PEM 13044 (RUSI 28495) - 7.6 mm OD, 433 mm TL. F2. PEM 13058 (RUSI 28495) - 7.9 mm OD, 450 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (-). Plate 5. CONGRIDAE 62 ctd. A. Uroconger lepturus SSF 40.12. Al. PEM 15488 (RUSI 40548) - L. 4.75 mm OD, c. 319 mm TL. A2. PEM 15488 - R. B. Muraenesox bagio SSF 45.1. Bl. PEM 8829 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 470 mm TL. B2. PEM 7948 - R. 11.4 mm OD, 1805 mm TL. DERICIITHYIDAE 63. C. Nessorhamphus ingolfianus SSF 49.2. Cl. PEM 13365 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 449 mm TL. SERRIVOMERIDAE 64. D. Serrivomer beanii SSF 48.1. Dl. 0909H - L. 1.25 mm OD, 420 mm TL. D2. 0904H - R. 1.8 mm OD, 715 mm TL. E. Serrivomer sp. A. SSF 48.-. El. PEM 13145 - R. 2.1 mm OD, 856 mm TL. CLUPEIDAE 69. F. Diissumieria elopsoides SSF 54.-. FI. PEM 15392 (RUSI 40589) - R. 3.75 mm OD, 179 mm TL. G. Etrumeus teres SSF 54.1. Gl. PEM 15692 (RUSI 42664) - L. 3.05 mm OD, 183 mm TL. G2. PEM 15691 (RUSI 42664) - L. 3.4 mm OD, 180 mm TL. II. E. whiteheadi SSF 54.2. III. PEM 10851 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 95 mm TL. 112. PEM 7688 (RUSI 28489) - L. 2.1 mm OD, 95 mm TL. 113. PEM 7693 (RUSI 28489) - R. 2.3 mm OD, 135 mm TL. H4. PEM 4657 - R. 4.39 mm OD, 227 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 6. CLUPEIDAE 69 ctd. A. Gilchristella aestuaria SSF 54.3. Al. PEM 2889 - R. 1.04 mm OD, 36 mm TL. A2. PEM 2154 - L. 1.64 mm OD, 68 mm TL. A3. PEM 2224 - L. 1.8 mm OD, 75 mm TL. B. Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus SSF 54.4. Bl. 1257H - L. 1.55 mm OD, 66 mm TL. B2. PEM 15390 (RUSI 40586) - L. 1.9 mm OD, 84 mm TL. B3. PEM 15381 (RUSI 40587) - R. 2.75 mm OD, 131 mm TL. C. Hilsa kelee SSF 54.5. Cl. 0187H - L. 4.8 mm OD, 190 mm TL. C2. 0186H - L. 4.85 mm OD, 185 mm TL. D. Pellona dilchela SSF 54.7. Dl. PEM 15438 (RUSI 40555) - L. 4.7 mm OD, 173 mm TL. D2. PEM 0353 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 182 mm TL. D3. PEM 15439 (RUSI 40555) - L. 5.05 mm OD, 181 mm TL. E. Sardinella albella SSF 54.8. El. PEM 14553 (RUSI 31405) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 170 mm TL. E2. PEM 14554 (RUSI 31394) - L. 3.7 mm OD, 172 mm TL. F. S. aurita SSF 54.9. FI. PEM 15499 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 129 mm TL. F2. PEM 15498 - R. 2.85 mm OD, 152 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 7. CLUPEIDAE 69 ctd. A. Sardinella gibbosa SSF 54.10. Al. PEM 12452 - L. 1.45 mm OD, 114 mm TL. A2. PEM 15492 (RUSI 40551) - L. 2.6 mm OD, 144 mm TL. A3. PEM 12451 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 180 mm TL. B. Sardinops ocellatus SSF 54.12. Bl. PEM 7294- L. 2.3 mm OD, 121 mm TL. B2. PEM 7694 (RUSI 34151) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 190 mm TL. B3. PEM 10867 - R. 4.6 mm OD, 244 mm TL. ENGRAULIDAE 70. C. Engraulis japonicus SSF 55.1. Cl. PEM 3815 - R. 1.05 mm OD, 46 mm TL. C2. PEM 12777 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 128 mm TL. C3. PEM 7374 (RUSI 28283) - L. 3.9 mm OD, 150 mm TL. D. Thryssa setirostris SSF 55.5. Dl. PEM 15303 (RUSI 36865) - R. 3.75 mm OD, 111 mm TL. D2. PEM 15314- R. 4.55 mm OD, 130 mm TL. D3. PEM 15308 - R. 4.9 mm OD, 144 mm TL. E. T. vilrirostris SSF 55.6. El. PEM 11735 (RUSI 28281) - L. 6.9 mm OD, 175 mm TL. E2. PEM 15301 - R. 7.06 mm OD, 170mmTL. E3. PEM 15282 (RUSI 36877) - L. 7.22 mm OD, 184 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). mM Plate 8. CHIROCENTRIDAE 71. A. Chirocentrus dorab SSF 56.1. Al. PEM 9349 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 212 mm FL. A2. PEM 9350 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 196 mm FL. A3. PEM 6431 - L. 4.10 mm OD, 365 mm FL. CHANIDAE 72. B. Chanos chanos SSF 58.1. Bl. 0230H - R. c.15.0 mm OD, 720 mm TL. GONORYNCHIDAE 73. C. Gonorynchus gonorynchus SSF 57.1. Cl. PEM 5135 - L. 1.35 mm OD, 117 mm TL. C2. PEM 13061 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 296 mm TL. ARIIDAE 108. D. Galeichthys ater SSF 59.2. Dl. PEM 10413 - 5.2 mm OD, 94 mm TL. D2. PEM 6950 - 9.4 mm OD, 231 mm TL. E. G. feliceps SSF 59.3. El. PEM 3129 - 3.21 mm OD, 52 mm TL. E2. PEM 3121 - 5.62 mm OD, 121 mm TL. E3. PEM 15015 (RUSI 35598) - 12.2 mm OD, 347 mm TL. F. Galeichthys sp. SSF 59.-. FI. PEM 10361 - 13.4 mm OD, 428 mm TL. F2. PEM 9217 - 13.9 mm OD, 478 mm TL. F3. PEM 10359 - 16.5 mm OD, 578 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 9. PLOTOSIDAE 109. A. Plotosus lineatus SSF 60. 1 . Al. PEM 6470 - 4.7 mm OD, 223 mm TL. B. P. nkunga SSF 60.2. Bl. PEM 9928 - 4.3 mm OD, 395 mm TL. B2. PEM 2714 (utricular or lapillus) 5.8 mm OD, 600 mm TL. B3. PEM 2714 (saccular or sagitta) 7.26 mm OD. B4. PEM 2714 (lagenar or asteriscus) 2.85 mm OD. ARGENTINIDAE 131. C. Argentina situs SSF 61.-. Cl. PEM 7978 - R. 10.2 mm OD. C2. PEM 7973 - R. 11.3 mm OD. D. Nansenia macrolepis SSF 61.3. Dl. PEM 13162 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 102 mm SL. D2. PEM 5058 (RUSI 14112) - R. 6.18 mm OD, 123 mm SL. E. Glossanodon semifasciatus SSF 61.-. El. PEM 12907 (RUSI 34087) - R. 4.0 mm OD, 111 mm TL. E2. PEM 12908 (RUSI 34087) - R. 4.8 mm OD, 148 mm TL. E3. PEM 12904 (RUSI 34087) - R. 5.2 mm OD, 150 mm TL. BATIIYLAGIDAE 132. F. Bathylagus antarcticus SSF 62.1. FI. PEM 13084 - R. 5.3 mm OD, 230 mm SL. G. B. bericoides SSF 62.2. Gl. PEM 13788 - R. 3.6 mm OD, 150 mm SL. H. Bathylagus sp. SSF 62.-. III. PEM 13085 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 148 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 10. OPISTHOPROCTIDAE 133. A. Opisthoproctus grimaldii SSF 63.1. Al. PEM 14812 - L. 6.65 mm OD. B. O. soleatus SSF 63.2. Bl. PEM 7964 - R. 6.8 mm OD, 81 mm SL. C. Winteria telescopa SSF 63.4. Cl. PEM 13328 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 146 mm TL. ALEPOCEPIIALIDAE 134. D. Alepocephalus australis SSF 64.1. Dl. PEM 13781 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 230 mm TL. D2. PEM 13774 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 318 mm TL. D3. PEM 13481 - R. 6.8 mm OD, 469 mm TL. E. Alepocephalus sp. SSF 64.-. El. PEM 14473 (RUSI 31407) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 294 mm TL. F. Xenodermichthys copei SSF 64.18. FI. PEM 14889 (RUSI 35524) - R. 1.9 mm OD, c.122 mm TL. F2. PEM 13394- L. 2.5 mm OD, 163 mm TL. SEARSIIDAE 135. G. Persparsia kopua SSF 65.7. Gl. PEM 13401 - R. 1.3 mm OD, 64 mm TL. G2. PEM 13269 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 159 mm TL. G3. PEM 13200 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 176 mm TL. G4. PEM 15358 - R. 4.5 mm OD, 166 mm TL. II. ISagamichthys schnakenbecki A. SSF 65. 8A. HI. PEM 13331 - L. 2.9 mm OD, 225 mm TL. I. ISagamichthys schnakenbecki B SSF 65. 8B. II. PEM 13266- L. 2.5 mm OD, 141 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 1 1 . GONOSTOMATIDAE 144 A. Bonapartia pedaliola SSF74.1. Al. 0363H - L. 1.3 mm OD. A2. 0341H - L. 1 .3 mm OD. B. Gonosloma atlanticum SSF 74.11. Bl. PEM 3408 - L. c.1.2 mm OD, c.65 mm SL. C. G. bathyphilum SSF 74.12. Cl. PEM 3442 - R. 1.25 mm OD, c.125 mm SL. D. G. elongatum SSF 74.14. Dl. PEM 1729 - R. 2.11 mm OD, 128 mm SL. D2. PEM 13086 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 235 mm SL. STERNOPTYCHIDAE 145. E. Maurolicus muelleri SSF 75.1. El. PEM 14742 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 37 mm TL. E2. PEM 7121 - L. 1.7 mm OD, 52 mm TL. E3. PEM 7001 (RUSI 37440) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 57 mm TL. F. Argyropelecus ajjinis SSF 75.4. FI. PEM 0937 - L. 1.25 mm OD. G. A. gigas SSF 75.5. Gl. PEM 13132 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 85 mm SL. G2. PEM 12055 - R. 2.15 mm OD, c.90 mm SL. II. A. sladeni SSF 75.7. HI. 0261H - L. 0.95 mm OD, 44 mm TL. I. Potyipnus indicus SSF 75.8. II. PEM 3486 (SAM 28717) - R. 2.65 mm OD, c.45 mm SL. 12. PEM 14914 (RUSI 35518) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 46 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' — i) or 1 mm ( — ). Plate 12. STERNOPTYCIIIDAE 145 ctd. A. Potyipnus polli SSF 75.10. Al. 0260H - R. 20 mm SL. B. Sternoptyx diaphana SSF 75.11. Bl. PEM 3390 - R. 0.7 mm OD, c.34 mm SL. PHOTICHTIIY1DAE 146. C. Photichthys argenteus SSF 73.4. Cl. PEM 14064 - R. 3.6 mm OD, 188 mm TL. C2. PEM 9017 (RUSI 37480) - R. 5.2 mm OD. D. Vinciguerria lucetia SSF 73.-. Dl. PEM 0532 - L. 1.75 mm OD. CIIAULIODONTIDAE 147. E. Chauliodus minimus SSF 68.1. El. PEM 14754 - R. 1.2 mm OD, 219 mm TL. F. C. sloani SSF 68.2. FI. PEM 14915 (RUSI 35602) - R. 0.8 mm OD, 126 mm TL. F2. PEM 14919 (RUSI 35602) - R. 1.55 mm OD, 263 mm SL. STOMIIDAE 148. G. Stomias boa boa SSF 67.2. Gl. PEM 14918 (RUSI 35523) - L. 0.7 mm OD, 239 mm TL. G2. PEM 13199 - R. 1.2 mm OD, 245 mm TL. ASTRONESTHIDAE 149. II. Astronesthes boulengeri SSF 69.1. HI. PEM 13302 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 237 mm TL. 112. PEM 13301 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 249 mm TL. I. A. indicus SSF 69.3. II. PEM 13300 - R. 1.2 mm OD, 132 mm TL. 12. PEM 13298 - L. 1.8 mm OD, 210 mm TL. 13. PEM 13297 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 225 mm SL. Scale bars 0.5 min ( | — | ). Plate 13. ASTRONESTIIIDAE 149 ctd. A. Borostomias mononema SSF 69.8. Al. PEM 13272 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 303 mm TL. B. Neoneslhes capensis SSF 69.9. Bl. PEM 3470 - R. 1.9 mm OD, c.155 mm SL. B2. PEM 13395 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 159 mm SL. MELANOSTOMIIDAE 150. C. Echiostoma barbatum SSF 72.6. Cl. PEM 14160 (RUSI 28286) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 223 mm TL. C2. PEM 14159 (RUSI 28285) - L. 1.6 mm OD, 243 mm TL. D. Euslomias lipochirus SSF 72.10. Dl. PEM 13347 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 286 mm TL. E. E. schmidti SSF 72.11. El. PEM 14916 (RUSI 35522) - L. 0.8 mm OD, 169 mm TL. F. Melanostomias niger SSF 72.18. FI. PEM 12054 - R. (lost). F2. PEM 15363 (RUSI 38318) - R. 1.15 mm OD, 210 mm TL. F3. PEM 13273 - L. 1.4 mm OD, 287 mm TL. G. Oposlomias micripnus SSF 72.21. Gl. PEM 13194 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 270 mm TL. H. Trigonolampa miriceps SSF 72.25. III. PEM 7965 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 154 mm SL. MALACOSTEIDAE 151 . I. Malacosteus niger SSF 71.4. II. PEM 3451 (SAM 28704) - R. 0.85 mm OD, c.100 mm SL. 12. PEM 3387 (SAM 28703) - R. 1.0 mm OD, c.131 mm SL. 13. PEM 13140 - R. 1.1 mm OD, 144 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 min (■ — '). Plate 14. IDIACANTIIIDAE 152. A. Idiacanthus allanticus SSF 70.1. Al. PEM 1737 - L. 0.48 mm OD, 212 mm SL. A2. PEM 14917 (RUSI 35525) - L. 0.9 mm OD, 185 mm TL. A3. PEM 13474- L. 1.4 mm OD, 450 mm TL. B. I fasciola SSF 70.2. Bl. PEM 14920 (RUSI 35520) - L. 0.8 mm OD, 206 mm TL. CtILOROPHTHALMIDAE 154. C. Bathysauropsis gracilis SSF 76.7. Cl. PEM 15355 (RUSI 38216) - R. 4.45 mm OD, 225 mm TL. D. Chlorophthalmus punctatus SSF 76.9. Dl. PEM 12792 - R. 3.9 mm OD, 110 mm SL. D2. PEM 15027 (RUSI 35556) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 149 mm TL. D3. PEM 13041 (RUSI 28290) - L. 5.1 mm OD, 200 mm TL. D4. PEM 5039 - L. 7.62 mm OD, 231 mm TL. SCOPELARCHIDAE 155. E. Benthalbella macropinna SSF 77.2. El. PEM 13412 - L. 5.9 mm OD, 267 mm TL. F. Scopelarchus analis SSF 77.6. FI. 0257H - R. 3.45 mm OD, 56 mm SL. NOTOSUDIDAE 156. G. Scopelosaurus ahlstromi SSF 78.3. Gl. PEM 13249 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 110 mm TL. G2. PEM 15360 (RUSI 38220) - L. 4.2 mm OD, 188 mm TL. G3. PEM 15359 (RUSI 38220) - R. 4.9 mm OD, 201 mm TL. H. S. meadi SSF 78.6. HI. PEM 13332 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 225 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (' — ')• Plate 15. SYNODONTIDAE 157. A. Balhysaurus ferox SSF 79.1. Al. PEM 12144 - L. 4.4 mm OD, 236 mm SL. A2. PEM 13762- L. 10.1 mm OD, 612 mm TL. A3. PEM 13761 - L. 11.1 mm OD, 615 mm TL. B. Saurida gracilis SSF 79.2. Bl. PEM 15447 (RUSI 40565)- L. 3.4 mm OD, 111 mm TL. B2. PEM 8330 - R. 7.0 mm OD, 290 mm TL. B3. PEM 5072 - R. 11.18 mm OD, 350 mm TL. C. S. undosquamis SSF 79.3. Cl. PEM 12455 - R. 5.7 mm OD, 159 mm TL. C2. PEM 12927 - L. 8.0 mm OD, 216 mm TL. C3. PEM 12826 (RUSI 28288) - L. 11.0 mm OD, 341 mm TL. D. Synodus indicus SSF 79.7. Dl. PEM 4404 (RUSI 16062) - L. 1.6 mm OD, 102 mm TL. D2. PEM 7818 (RUSI 28287) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 264 mm TL. D3. PEM 1974 - R. 3.73 mm OD, 310 mm TL. E. S. variegatus SSF 79.9. El. 1036H - L. 1.2 mm OD, 68 mm TL. E2. 1005H - L. 2.1 mm OD, 166 mm TL. E3. 1032H - L. 2.2 mm OD, 186 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 16. SYNODONTIDAE 157 ctd. A. Trachinocephalus myops SSF 79.10. Al. PEM 2582 - L. 6.84 mm OD, 170 mm TL. A2. 1386H - L. 9.48 mm OD, 236 mm TL. A3. PEM 5967 - R. 9.6 mm OD, 210 mm TL. PARALEPIDIDAE 159. B. Lestidiops similis SSF 81.2. Bl. PEM 14144 (RUSI 28291) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 219 mm TL. B2. PEM 14149 (RUSI 28293) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 214 mm TL. C. Lestrolepis intermedia SSF 81.4. Cl. PEM 5034 - R. 4.3 mm OD, 252 mm TL. C2. PEM 5035 - L. 4.75 mm OD, 254 mm TL. D. Macroparalepis macrogeneion SSF 81.6. Dl. PEM 12315 - R. 3.3 mm OD, 275 mm TL. E. Paralepis atlantica SSF 81 El. PEM 0966 - R. 5.84 mm OD. ALEPISAURIDAE 163. F. Alepisaurus ferox SSF 85.2. FI. PEM 15635 - 0.75 mm OD, 710 mm TL. F2. PEM 0931 - 1.3 mm OD. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166. G. Benthosema fibulatum SSF 86.1. Gl. PEM 12960 (SAM 31648) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 77 mm TL. G2. PEM 12961 (SAM 31650) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 81 mm TL. G3. PEM 12945 (SAM 31652) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 81 mm TL. II. B. suborbitale SSF 86.3. HI. 0870H - L. 1.6 mm OD. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (' — '). Plate 17. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd. A. Bolinichihys indicus SSF 86.4. Al. PEM 7998 - L. 1.4 mm OD. B. B. supralateralis SSF 86.7. Bl. PEM 13203 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 68 mm TL. B2. PEM 7860 - L. 4.3 mm OD, 93 mm SL. B3. PEM 13232 (SAM 32130) - L. 5.1 mm OD, 135 mm TL. C. Ceratoscopelus wanningii SSF 86.9. Cl. PEM 1773 - R. 1.73 mm OD, 34 mm SL. C2. PEM 1772 - R. 3.1 mm OD, 39 mm SL. I). Diaphus brachycephalus SSF 86.13. Dl. PEM 1761 - L. 1.59 mm OD, 31 mm SL. E. D. ejfulgens SSF 86.16. El. PEM 1756 - R. 2.38 mm OD, 32 mm SL. E2. PEM 7881 - R. 4.8 mm OD, 83 mm SL. E3. PEM 13291 - L. 5.9 mm OD, 125 mm TL. F. D. garmani SSF 86.19. FI. 0835H - L. 3.4 mm OD. G. D. hudsotii SSF 86.20. Gl. PEM 13934- L. 3.5 mm OD, 59 mm TL. G2. PEM 13921 (SAM 31851) - L. 3.8 mm OD, 68 mm TL. G3. PEM 13984- L. 4.3 mm OD, 85 mm TL. II. D. jenseni SSF 86.21 .III. PEM 1758 - R. 2.22 mm OD, 26 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (•—’). Plate 18. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd. A. Diaphus lucidus SSF 86.23. Al. PEM 1767 - R. 2.38 mm OD, 35 mm SL. A2. PEM 13389 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 87 mm TL. A3. PEM 13388 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 104 mm TL. B. D. meadi SSF 86.26. Bl. PEM 7590 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 36 mm SL. B2. PEM 7592 - R. 3.5 mm OD, 51 mm SL. B3. PEM 7593 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 48 mm SL. C. D. metopoclampus SSF 86.27. Cl. PEM 7574 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 53 mm SL. C2. PEM 7882 - L. 3.8 mm OD, 52 mm SL. C3. 0360H - R. 4.1 mm OD, 62 mm SL. D. D. mollis SSF 86.28. Dl. PEM 1759 - L. 1.68 mm OD, 28 mm SL. D2. PEM 13383 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 76 mm TL. E. D. oslenfeldi SSF 86.30. El. PEM 13161 (SAM 32112) - R. 4.6 mm OD, 95 mm TL. E2. PEM 13160 (SAM 32112) - L. 4.9 mm OD, 113 mm TL. F. D. perspicillatus SSF 86.32. FI. PEM 1762 - L. 2.36 mm OD, 22 mm SL. F2. PEM 13292 (SAM 31826) - L. 2.6 mm OD, 47 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 19. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd. A. Diaphus problematicus SSF 86.34. Al. PEM 13192 (SAM 32053) - L. 4.7 mm OD, 102 mm TL. B. D. watasei SSF 86.41. Bl. PEM 13026 (SAM 31657) - R. 5.6 mm OD, 128 mm TL. B2. PEM 13027 (SAM 31658) - L. 6.6 mm OD, c.145 mm TL. B3. PEM 13025 (SAM 31656) - R. 8.1 mm OD, 187 mm TL. C. Electrona antarctica SSF 86.44. Cl. PEM 10227 (SAM 31192) - L. 2.05 mm OD, 74 mm TL. C2. PEM 10220 - R. 2.25 mm OD, 85 mm TL. C3. PEM 10225 (SAM 31192) - L. 2.4 mm OD, 83 mm TL. D. E. carlsbergi SSF 86.45. Dl. PEM 7662 - R. 3.3 mm OD, 70 mm SL. D2. PEM 7665 - R. 3.3 mm OD, 72 mm SL. D3. PEM 7677 - R. 3.5 mm OD, 79 mm SL. E. E. risso SSF 86.47. El. PEM 13128 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 38 mm TL. E2. PEM 13184 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 54 mm TL. E3. PEM 13370 - L. 4.4 mm OD. F. Gonichthys barnesi SSF 86.49. FI. PEM 1779 - R. 1.26 mm OD, 40 mm SL. F2. PEM 3461 - R. 1.44 mm OD, c.43 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (' — ')• Plate 20. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd A. Gymnoscopelus bolini SSF 86.51. Al. PEM 13087 (SAM 32153) - R. 7.3 mm OD, 255 mm TL. A2. PEM 13374 (SAM 32157) - L. 7.9 mm OD, 203 mm SL. A3. PEM 13144 (SAM 32152) - L. 8.5 mm OD, 298 mm TL. B. G. braueri SSF 86.52. Bl. PEM 7545 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 86 mm SL. B2. PEM 10253 - L. 2.95 mm OD, 136 mm TL. B3. PEM 7544 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 126 mm SL. C. G. nicholsi SSF 86.53. Cl. PEM 10255 - L. 5.5 mm OD, 164mmTL. C2. PEM 7628 - R. 5.6mm OD, 137 mm SL. C3. PEM 7611 - L. 5.9 mm OD, 145 mm SL. D. G. opisthopterus SSF 86.54. Dl. PEM 11833 - R. 1.4 mm OD, 100 mm SL. E. G. Jraseri SSF 86.55. El. PEM 7546 - R. 3.3 mm OD, 66 mm SL. F. G. piabilis SSF 86.58. FI. PEM 13377 - L. 4.3 mm OD, 100 mm TL. F2. PEM 13631 - R. 5.4 mm OD, 120 mm TL. F3. PEM 13645 - L. 5.8 mm OD, 134 mm TL. F4. PEM 13110 (SAM 31925) - L. 6.0 mm OD, 117 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 21. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd. A. Hygophum hanseni SSF 86.60. Al. PEM 1776 - R. 2.0 mm OD, 38 mm SL. A2. PEM 1775 - L. 1.4 mm OD, 29 mm SL. B. H. hygomii SSF 86.61. Bl. PEM 13384 (SAM 31809) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 65 mm TL. B2. PEM 3437 - R. 3.42 mm OD, c.58 mm SL. C. H. proximum SSF 86.62. Cl. PEM 0928 - R. 1.9 mm OD. C2. PEM 0928 - R. 2.9 mm OD. D. Krefftichthys anderssoni SSF 86.64. Dl. PEM 7646 - R. 1.3 mm OD, 38 mm SL. D2. PEM 10247 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 64 mm TL. D3. PEM 7655 - R. 1.9 mm OD, 66 mm SL. E. Lampadena chavesi SSF 86.66. El. PEM 7989 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 66 mm SL. E2. 0264H - L. 3.8 mm OD, 67 mm SL. F. L. luminosa SSF 86.68. FI. PEM 13242 (SAM 32178) - L. 8.6 mm OD, 172 mm TL. F2. PEM 13241 (SAM 32178) - L. 8.5 mm OD, 181 mm TL. G. L. notialis SSF 86.69. Gl. PEM 13147 - L. 5.0 mm OD, 159 mm TL. G2. PEM 13146 - R. 8.7 mm OD, 166 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 22. MYCTOPHIDAE 166 ctd. A. Lampadena speculigera SSF 86.71. Al. PEM 13134 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 159 mm TL. A2. PEM 7562 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 117 mm SL. A3. PEM 7831 - L. 5.8 mm OD, 151 mm SL. B. Lampanyctodes hectoris SSF 86.72. Bl. PEM 7477 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 59 mm TL. B2. PEM 7536 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 62 mm SL. B3. PEM 7532 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 64 mm SL. C. Lampanyctus achirus SSF 86.73. Cl. PEM 3436 (SAM 28666) - R. 1.0 mm OD, c.115 mm SL. C2. PEM 3455 (SAM 28669) - L. 1.3 mm OD, c.144 mm SL. D. L. alatus SSF 86.74. Dl. PEM 3393 (SAM 28679) - L. 2.15 mm OD, c.50 mm SL. D2. PEM 3395 (SAM 28689) - R. 2.32 mm OD, c.55 mm SL. E. L. aler SSF 86.75. El. PEM 13231 (SAM 32073) - L. 1.8 mm OD, 99 mm SL. E2. PEM 13255 (SAM 32074) - L. 1.9 mm OD, 124 mm TL. F. L. australis SSF 86.76. FI. PEM 1748 (SAM 28326) - R. 1.32 mm OD, 43 mm SL. F2. PEM 13263 (SAM 32059) - L. 2.8 mm OD, 122 mm TL. F3. PEM 3483 (SAM 28650) - L. 2.82 mm OD, c.92 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ) or 0.5 mm ( | — | ). Plate 23. MYCTOPHIDAE 166 ctd. A. Lampanyctus festivus SSF 86.77. Al. PEM 13376 - L. 3.5 mm OD. 224 mm TL. A2. PEM 13250 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 156 mm TL. B. L. intricarius SSF 86.78. Bl. PEM 7984 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 99 mm SL. B2. PEM 13343 (SAM 31950) - L. 2.3 mm OD, 134 mm SL. B3. PEM 7825 - R. 3.2 mm OD, 156 mm SL. C. L. lepidotychnus SSF 86.79. Cl. PEM 1745 (SAM 28327) - R. 0.9 mm OD, 37 mm SL. C2. PEM 3394 (SAM 28654) - L. 2.2 mm OD, c.98 mm SL. C3. PEM 13211 (SAM 31915) - L. 2.4 mm OD, 111 mm TL. D. L. macdonaldi SSF 86.81. Dl. PEM 13221 (SAM 31841) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 98 mm SL. D2. PEM 13224 (SAM 31841) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 139 mm TL. E. L. pholonotus SSF 86.83. El. 1333H - R. 1.65 mm OD, 65 mm TL. E2. 1334H - L. 1.75 mm OD, 60 mm TL. F. L. pusillus SSF 86.84. FI. PEM 7980 (SAM 29264) - R. 1.3 mm OD, 33 mm SL. G. L. lenuiformis SSF 86.86. Gl. PEM 13254 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 142 mm TL. G2. PEM 13342 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 186 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 24. MYCTOPHIDAE 166 ctd. A. Lampanyclus vadulus SSF 86.-. Al. PEM 13252 (SAM 31947) - L. 2.1 mm OD, 107 mm TL. A2. PEM 13378 (SAM 31948) - L. 2.9 mm OD, 119 mm TL. B. Lampichthys procerus SSF 86.90. Bl. PEM 13228 (SAM 32002) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B2. PEM 13225 (SAM 32002) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 107 mm TL. C. Lobianchia dofleini SSF 86.92. Cl. PEM 7548 - R. 2.3 mm OD, 31 mm SL. C2. PEM 1771 (SAM 28357) - R. 2.66 mm OD, 31 mm SL. C3. PEM 7841 - L. 5.3 mm OD, 62 mm SL. D. L. gemellarii SSF 86.93. Dl. PEM 7991 (SAM 29287) - L. 4.9 mm OD, 55 mm SL. D2. PEM 7986 (SAM 29287) - R. 5.5 mm OD, 63 mm SL. D3. PEM 7835 (SAM 29472) - R. 7.4 mm OD, 96 mm SL. E. Metelectrona ventralis SSF 86.97. El. PEM 13917 - R. 3.1 mm OD, 63 mm SL. E2. PEM 13911 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 92 mm TL. F. Myclophum aurolaternatum SSF 86.99. FI. PEM 0918b - L. 2.1 mm OD. F2. 0866H - L. 3.9 mm OD. F3. PEM 0918a - R. 3.9 mm OD. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 25. MYCTOPIIIDAE 166 ctd. A. Myctophum nitidulum SSF 86.101. Al. PEM 0518c - R. 1.6 mm OD, 35 mm SL. A2. PEM 3469 - L. 2.2 mm OD, c.54 mm SL. A3. PEM 0518a - L. 2.9 mm OD, 69 mm SL. B. M. oblusirostre SSF 86.102. Bl. PEM 1783 (SAM 28310) - L. 1.8 mm OD, 378 mm SL. C. M. phengodes SSF 86.103. €1. PEM 1780 (SAM 28305) - L. 2.01 mm OD, 39 mm SL. C2. PEM 3388 (SAM 28682) - R. 2.44 mm OD, c.46 mm SL. C3. PEM 13290 (SAM 32042) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 91 mm TL. D. M. spinosum SSF 86.105. Dl. PEM 3413 (SAM 28688) - R. 2.03 mm OD, c.54 mm SL. 02. PEM 3464 (SAM 28670) - L. 2.09 mm OD, c.58 mm SL. E. Noloscopelus caudispinosus SSF 86.107. El. PEM 8000 (SAM 29245) - L. 4.3 mm OD. F. N. resplendent SSF 86.108. FI. PEM 13287 (SAM 32107) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 77 mm SL. F2. PEM 13229 (SAM 32105) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 87 mm TL. G. Protomyctophum bolini SSF 86.112. Gl. PEM 10258 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 43 mm SL. G2. PEM 10257 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 43 mm SL. H. P. normani SSF 86.1 16. III. PEM 7604 (SAM 30839) - L. 2.3 mm OD, 70 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 26. MYCTOPHIDAE 166 ctd. A. Protomyctophum tenisoni SSF 86.117. Al. PEM 7600 - L. 1.8 mm OD, 49 mm SL. A2. PEM 7603 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 40 mm SL. B. Scopelopsis multipunctatus SSF 86.118. Bl. PEM 3545 (SAM 29114) - R. 2.6 mm OD, c.53 mm SL. B2. PEM 3495 (SAM 28664) - R. 2.63 mm OD, c.55 mm SL. B3. PEM 3466 - L. 3.0 rrim OD, c.61 mm SL. C. Symbolophorus barnardi SSF 86.119. Cl. PEM 13469 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 53 mm TL. C2. PEM 13453 (SAM 31962) - L. 4.3 mm OD, 105 mm TL. C3. PEM 13975 - L. 5.0 mm OD, 121 mm TL. D. S. hoops SSF 86.120. Dl. PEM 1787 - L. 2.59 mm OD, 50 mm SL. D2. PEM 13982 (SAM 32014) - R. 4.9 mm OD, 118 mm TL. D3. PEM 13903 (SAM 32011) - L. 6.0 mm OD, 144 mm TL. E. S. evennanni SSF 86.121. El. 0834H - R. 2.75 mm OD. E2. PEM 0522 - R. 3.95 mm OD. F. S. rufinus SSF 86.122. FI. 0842H - R. 2.95 mm OD. G. Taaningichthys bathyphilus SSF 86.123. Gl. PEM 3489 (SAM 28677) - R. 1.71 mm OD, 50 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 27. MORIDAE 171. A. Antimora rostrata SSF 90.1. Al. PEM 14518 (RUSI 31377) - R. 8.4 mm OD, 173 mm TL. A2. PEM 12256- R. 10.3 mm OD, 227 mm SL. A3. PEM 13406- R. 13.3 mm OD, 405 mm TL. B. Laemonema globiceps SSF 90.3. Bl. PEM 13790 - R. 7.9 mm OD, 165 mm TL. B2. PEM 12283 - R. 9.4 mm OD, 165 mm SL. C. L. laureysi SSF 90.4. Cl. PEM 14451 (RUSI 31381) - R. 6.0 mm OD, 176 mm TL. C2. PEM 14452 (RUSI 31396) - R. 8.6 mm OD, 209 mm TL. D. Lepidion capensis SSF 90.5. Dl. PEM 13403 - L. 8.2 mm OD, 160 mm TL. D2. PEM 13734 - R. 11.6 mm OD, 275 mm TL. D3. PEM 13563 - L. 15.9 mm OD, 435 mm TL. E. Physiculus capensis SSF 90.7. El. PEM 14446 (RUSI 28366) - L. 6.5 mm OD, 120 mm TL. E2. PEM 12467 (RUSI 28317) - R. 7.5 mm OD, 121 mm TL. E3. PEM 14442 (RUSI 34136) - L. 10.3 mm OD, 200 mm TL. F. P. natalensis SSF 90.8. FI. PEM 5094 - L. 7.24 mm OD, 145 mm TL. F2. PEM 5093 - R. 9.13 mm OD, 220 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). \ 't#! j Plate28. MORIDAE 171 ctd. A. Tripterophycis gilchristi SSF 90.9. Al. PEM 1 1284 - R. 5.5 mm OD, 1 10 mm TL. A2. PEM 14154 (RUSI 28318) - R. 7.3 mm OD, 177 mm TL. A3. PEM 12706 (RUSI 34071) - L. 8.3 mm OD, 221 mm TL. MELANON1DAE 172. B. Melanonus gracilis SSF 91.1. Bl. PEM 1733 (SAM 28407) - 1.3 mm OD, 42 mm SL. B2. PEM 3389 (SAM 28739) - 1.5 mm OD, c.65 mm SL. B3. PEM 3450 (SAM 28736) - 2.1 mm OD, c.75 mm SL. C. M. zugmayeri SSF 91.2. Cl. PEM 13373 - 7.0 mm OD, 261 mm TL. BREGMACEROT1DAE 173. D. Bregmaceros macclellandii SSF 92.2. Dl. PEM 3458 - 2.45 mm OD, c.65 mm SL. E. B. nectabanus SSF 92.3. El. PEM 12784 (RUSI 28313) - 1.2 mm OD, 48 mm TL. E2. PEM 12782 (RUSI 28311) - 1.3 mm OD, 47 mm TL. GADIDAE 174. F. Gaidropsarus capensis SSF 88.1. FI. PEM 5602 - 1.7 mm OD, 61 mm TL. F2. PEM 5206 (RUSI 13834) - 2. 1 mm OD, 90 mm TL. F3. PEM 5578 - 3.7 mm OD, 194 mm TL. MERLUCCIIDAE 175. G. Macruronus capensis SSF 89.3. Gl. 1336H - 25.3 mm OD, 1070 mm TL. G2. PEM 14218 - 26.3 mm OD. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 29. MERLUCCIIDAE 175 ctd. A. Merluccius capensis SSF 89.4. Al. PEM 7347 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 49 mm TL. A2. PEM 7798 (RUSI 28314) - R. 12.4 mm OD, 282 mm TL. A3. PEM 7802 - R. 14.6 mm OD, 337 mm TL. B. M. paradoxus SSF 89.5. Bl. PEM 10639 - L. 9.23 mm OD, 210 mm TL. B2. PEM 10611 - R. 11.82 mm OD, 267 mm TL. B3. PEM 10614 - R. 26.5 mm OD, 720 mm TL. MACROURIDAE 176. C. Bathygadus cottoides SSF 93.-. Cl. PEM 15351 (RUSI 38212) - R. 2.7 mm OD, 177 mm TL. D. B. melanobranchus SSF 93.2. Dl. PEM 13440 - R. 15.3 mm OD, 770 mm TL. E. Caelorinchus acanthiger SSF 93.4. El. PEM 14504 (RUSI 31406) - R. 8.5 mm OD, 233 mm TL. E2. PEM 14505 (RUSI 31390) - R. 9.5 mm OD, 267 mm TL. E3. PEM 14687 - R. 12.2 mm OD, 402 mm TL. F. C. braueri SSF 93.5. FI. PEM 13811 (RUSI 28304) - R. 8.1 mm OD,218mmTL. F2. PEM 13720 - R. 11.2 mm OD, 325 mm TL. F3. PEM 14936 - L. 13.4 mm OD, 400 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 30. MACROURIDAE 176 ctd. A. Caelorinchus simorhynchus SSF93.8. Al. PEM 8120 (RUSI 34163) - L. 8.2 mm OD, 206 mm TL. A2. PEM 8119 (RUSI 34163) - L. 10.2 mm OD, 275 mm TL. A3. PEM 11387 - R. 12.4 mm OD, 366 mm TL. B. C. denticulatus SSF 93.7. Bl. PEM 11359 (RUSI 28302) - R. 6.0 mm OD, 141 mm TL. B2. PEM 12869 (RUSI 28303) - L. 1-0.8 mm OD, 211 mm TL. C. C. kaiyomaru SSF 93.-. Cl. PEM 14900 (RUSI 35585) - R. 9.6 mm OD, 321 mm TL. D. C. karrerae SSF 93.-. Dl. PEM 14468 (RUSI 31391) - L. 6.9 mm OD, 239 mm TL. D2. PEM 14497 (RUSI 31395) - L. 7.5 mm OD, 246 mm TL. E. C. quadricristatus SSF 93.-. El. PEM 5074 - 16.96 mm OD, 460 mm TL. E2. 1579H - 21.18 mm OD, 260 mm SL. F. C. trunovi SSF 93.9. FI. PEM 13042 - 16.4 mm OD, 428 mm TL. G. Coryphaenoides striaturus SSF 93.12. Gl. PEM 14465 (RUSI 31384) - L. 5.8 mm OD, 230 mm TL. G2. PEM 14463 (RUSI 31427) - R. 8.3 mm OD, 380 mm TL. G3. PEM 15369 - 13.18 mm OD, 560 mm TL. H. C. subserrulatus SSF 93.13. HI. PEM 14510 (RUSI 31423) - L. 6.3 mm OD, 352 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 31. MACROURIDAE 176 ctd. A. Gadomus capensis SSF 93.14. Al. PEM 13765 - L. 6.3 mm OD, 322 mm TL. A 2. PEM 13769 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 420 mm TL. B. Kuronezumia leonis SSF 93.21. Bl. PEM 14899 - L. 9.1 mm OD, 389 mm PAL. C. Lucigcidus ori SSF 93.32. Cl. PEM 8122 (RUSI 40679) - L. 5.9 mm OD, 182 mm TL. C2. PEM 14121 (RUSI 28301) - L. 6.6 mm OD, 217 mm TL. D. Caelorinchus matamua SSF 93.16. Dl. PEM 13817 (RUSI 28299) - R. 10.4 mm OD, 362 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 13816 (RUSI 28298) - R. 10.9 mm OD, 483 mm TL. E. Malacocephalus laevis SSF 93.17. El. PEM 12716 (RUSI 28307) - 8.7 mm OD, c.283 mm TL. E2. PEM 14135 - 16.3 mm OD, 650 mm TL. F. Mesobius antipodum SSF93.18. FI. PEM 13318 - L. 10.5 mm OD, 460 mm TL. G. Nezumia brevibarbata SSF 93.19. Gl. PEM 14517 (RUSI 31444) - L. 5.3 mm OD, 183 mm TL. G2. PEM 14464 (RUSI 31455) - L. 7.1 mm OD, 260 mm TL. II. N. micronychodon SSF 93.22. HI. PEM 14467 (RUSI 31453) - L. 8.0 mm OD, 74 mm TL. H2. PEM 14516 (RUSI 31452) - L. 8.4 mm OD, 260 mm TL. H3. PEM 14515 (RUSI 31419) - L. 8.7 mm OD, 282 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 32. MACROURIDAE 176 ctd. A. Nezumia umbracincta SSF 93.-. Al. PEM 13805 - L. 6.9 mm OD, 290 mm TL. A2. PEM 13802 - R. 7.9 mm OD, 310 mm TL. B. Sphagemacrurus pumiliceps SSF 93.27. Bl. PEM 0417 - L. 7.7 mm OD, 160 mm TL. B2. 0182H - L. 9.76 mm OD, c.160 mm TL. C. Trachonurus villosus SSF 93.28. Cl. PEM 13413 - R. 4.7 mm OD, 256 mm TL. D. Trachyrincus scabrus SSF 93.29. Dl. PEM 14764 - L. 14.0 mm OD, 337 mm TL. D2. PEM 14763 - L. 14.9 mm OD, 432 mm TL. E. Ventrifossa nasuta SSF 93.31. El. PEM 14749 - L. 4.5 mm OD, 138 mm TL. E2. PEM 12714 (RUSI 28509) - L. 7.7 mm OD, 171 mm TL. OPH1DIIDAE 177. F. Brotula muUibarbata SSF 96.3. FI. PEM 15591 - L. 6.14 mm OD, 130 mm TL. F2. 1402H - L. 11.06 mm OD, 237 mm TL. F3. PEM 14247 (RUSI 34566) - L. 11.7 mm OD, 287 mm TL. G. Dicrolene intronigra SSF 96.5. Gl. PEM 13660 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 161 mm TL. G2. PEM 13654,- L. 5.3 mm OD, 288 mm TL. G3. PEM 14461 (RUSI 31415) - R. 6.4 mm OD, 260 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 33. OPIIIDIIDAE 177 ctd. A. Genyplerus capensis SSF 96.9. Al. PEM 12036 - R. 6.3 mm OD, 205 mm TL. A2. PEM 9013 (RUSI 37519) - L. 11.2 mm OD, 403 mm TL. A3. PEM 11349 - R. 12.5 mm OD, 525 mm TL. A4. PEM 15157- R. 15.8 mm OD, 790 mm TL. B. Hoplobrotula gnathopus SSF 96.13. Bl. PEM 15009 (RUSI 35571) - L. 1 1 .5 mm OD, 246 mm TL. B2. PEM 14976 (RUSI 35543) - R. 19.9 mm OD, 521 mm TL. C. Neobythites analis SSF 93.18. Cl. PEM 13032 (RUSI 28319) - L. 7.6 mm OD, 155 mm TL. C2. PEM 15154 - L. 9.94 mm OD, 188 mm SL. C3. 1571H - R. 10.54 mm OD, 186 mm SL. D. Selachophidium guentheri SSF 96.22. Dl. PEM 12062 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 156 mm TL. D2. PEM 14902 (RUSI 35574) - R. 8.9 mm OD, 270 mm TL. D3. PEM 14059 - R. 10.4 mm OD, 284 mm TL. CARAPIDAE 178. E. Encheliophis boraborensis 97.-. El. PEM 15473 (RUSI 40594) - L. 6.2 mm OD, 258 mm TL. E2. PEM 15473 - R. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 34. BYTHITIDAE 179. A. Bidenichlhys capensis SSF 98.1. Al. PEM 5600 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 60 mm TL. B. Cataetyx laticeps SSF 98.3. Bl. PEM 13316 - L. 10.8 mm OD, 540 mm TL. C. C. niki SSF 98.4. Cl. PEM 14589 - L. 14.7 mm OD, 583 mm TL. BATRACIIOIDIDAE 181. D. Batrichthys apiatus SSF 100.3. Dl. PEM 14824 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 70 mm TL. D2. PEM 9981 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 71 mm TL. E. Chair abus hendersoni SSF 100.5. El. PEM 11329 (RUSI 28295) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 122 mm TL. F. C. melanurus SSF 100.6. FI. PEM 12545 (RUSI 28296) - L. 5.4 mm OD, 126 mm TL. F2. PEM 14400 (RUSI 34145) - R. 6.6 mm OD, 180 mm TL. F3. PEM 14882 (RUSI 35579) - R. 11.6 mm OD, 187 mm TL. LOPHIIDAE 182. G. Lophiodes mutilus SSF 101.2. Gl. PEM 0434 - R. 4.15 mm OD, 160 mm TL. G2. PEM 0435 - R. 7.14 mm OD, 245 mm TL. H. Lophius vaillanti SSF 101.-. HI. PEM 15063 - 7.9 mm OD. I. L. vomerinus SSF 101.4. II. PEM 14139 (RUSI 28297) - 2.2 mm OD, 96 mm TL. 12. PEM 11717 - 5.6 mm OD, 363 mm TL. 13. PEM 11719 - 7.1 mm OD, 500 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (-)• Plate 35. ANTENNARIIDAE 183. A. Anlennarius hispidus SSF 102.4. Al. PEM 0228 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 50 mm TL. B. A. slriatus SSF 102.7. Bl. PEM 0299 (RUSI 4555) - L. 4.05 mm OD, 115 mm TL. B2. PEM 14840 (RUSI 37089) - R. 4.5 mm OD, 119 mm TL. B3. PEM 14841 (RUSI 37089) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 142 mm TL. C. Histrio histrio SSF 102.9. Cl. PEM 0792 - R. 1.1 mm OD. C2. PEM 9654 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 200 mm TL. CIIAUNACIDAE 185. D. Chaunax pictus SSF 103.2. Dl. PEM 12955 - R. 8.6 mm OD, 212 mm TL. D2. PEM 12954 (RUSI 34164) - R. 9.6 mm OD, 260 mm TL. OGCOCEP1I ALI DAE 186. E. Halieuiaea fitzsimonsi SSF 104.2. El. PEM 12840 - R. 6.4 mm OD. E2. PEM 12844 - R. 6.6 mm OD, 130 mm TL. E3. PEM 12969 (RUSI 28309) - L. 7.8 mm OD, 180 mm TL. F. Malihopsis luteus SSF 104.6. FI. PEM 12965 - R. 3.7 mm OD, 92 mm TL. G. M. tiarella SSF 104.8. Gl. PEM 13068 (RUSI 28477) - R. 2.9 mm OD, 65 mm TL. G2. PEM 13024 (RUSI 28477) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 196 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). ( Plate 36. CERATIIDAE 188. A. Ceratias tentaculatus SSF 105.2. Al. PEM 15354 (RUSI 38217) - L. 3.25 mm OD, 310 mm TL. B. Cryptosaras couesii SSF 105.3. Bl. PEM 13175 (SAM 31588) - R. 1.9 mm OD, 65 mm TL. HIMANTOLOPHIDAE 196. C. Himanlolophus groenlandicus SSF 108.1. Cl. PEM 12130- R. 1.95 mm OD. C2. PEM 13142 (SAM 31615)- L. 2.7 mm OD, 234 mm TL. GOBIESOCIDAE 198. D. Apletodon pellegrini SSF 110.1. Dl. PEM 6066 (RUSI 17130) - L. 0.5 mm OD, 28 mm TL. E. Chorisochismus dentex SSF 110.2. El. PEM 10377 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 123 mm TL. E2. PEM 10474 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 235 mm TL. EXOCOETIDAE 200. F. Cheilopogon cyanopterus SSF 116.1. FI. PEM 15339 - L. c.10.4 mm OD, 270 mm SL. F2. PEM 14275 - R. 10.6 mm OD, 275 mm SL. G. C. pinnatibarbatus altipennis SSF 116.4. Gl. PEM 1606 - L. 8.54 mm OD, 374 mm TL. G2. PEM 8340 - R. 8.9 mm OD, 365 mm TL. G3. 1389H - L. 10.0 mm OD, 320 mm SL. H. Cypselurus oligolepis SSF 116.-. III. PEM 15395 (RUSI 40558) - R. 2.85 mm OD, 77 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ) or 0.1 mm (> — •). Plate 37. EXC0ET1DAE 200 ctd. A. Exocoetus volitans SSF 116.6. Al. PEM 8169 - R. 3.8 mm OD, 127 mm TL. A2. PEM 8165 - L. 4.5 mm OD, 150 mm TL. A3. PEM 8166 (RUSI 28521) - R. 4.9 mm OD, 144 mm TL. B. Hirundichthys rondeletii SSF 116.7. Bl. PEM 6488 - R. 7.6 mm OD, 200 mm SL. C. Parexocoetus mento SSF 116.10. Cl. PEM 3386 - L. 2.12 mm OD, c.55 mm SL. C2. PEM 0034 - R. 3.3 mm OD. HEMIRAMPHIDAE 201. D . Euleptorhamphus viridis SSF 115.1. Dl. PEM 8170 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 101 mm TL. D2. PEM 8226 - L. 2.95 mm OD, 105 mm TL. E. Hemiramphus far SSF 115.2. El. PEM 6724 - L. 7.4 mm OD, 323 mm SL. E2. PEM 4865 - L. 9.6 mm OD, 500 mm TL. F. Hyporhamphus affinis SSF 115.3. FI. PEM 8227 - R. 3.75 mm OD, 199 mm TL. F2. PEM 2709 (RUSI 9509) - L. 7.26 mm OD, 358 mm TL. G. H. capensis SSF 1 15.4. Gl. PEM 5935 - R. 2.1 mm OD, 121 mm TL. G2. PEM 4321 (RUSI 13233) - R. 2.85 mm OD, 156 mm TL. G3. PEM 1387 - R. 3.08 mm OD, 165 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 38. HEMIRAMPHIDAE 201 ctd. A. Oxyporhamphus micropterus micropterus SSF 115.6. Al. PEM 0529 - R. 3.75 mm OD, 97 mm SL. A2. PEM 0529 - L. 4.85 mm OD, 118 mm SL. A3. PEM 0529 - R. 5.38 mm OD, 132 mm SL. BELONIDAE 202. B. Ablennes hians SSF 113.1. Bl. PEM 4885 - R. 4.1 mm OD, 546 mm TL. B2. PEM 5926 - L. 4.3 mm OD, 663 mm FL. B3. PEM 6508 - L. 7.0 mm OD, 1171 mm TL. C. Petalichthys capensis SSF 113.2. Cl. PEM 0759 - L. 1.85 mm OD, 224 mm TL. C2. PEM 2095 - R. 2.64 mm OD. C3. PEM 2094 - L. 3.64 mm OD, 350 mm TL. D. Tylosurus crocodilus crocodilus SSF 113.4. Dl. PEM 12819 (RUSI 28320) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 453 mm TL. D2. PEM 15329 (RUSI 36881) - R. 4.5 mm OD, 462 mm TL. D3. PEM 8410- R. 4.8 mm OD, 450 mm TL. SCOMBERESOCIDAE 203. E. Scomberesox saurus scomberoides SSF 114.2. El. PEM 13960 - L. 1.7 mm OD, 265 mm TL. E2. PEM 10864 - L. 2.3 mm OD. E3. PEM 12879 (RUSI 28321) - R. 2.4 mm OD, 321 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 39. ATHERINIDAE 213. A. Atherina breviceps SSF 111.1. Al. PEM 2157 - L. 2.0 mm OD, 60 mm TL. A2. PEM 4592 (RUSI 14941) - R. 2.85 mm OD, 86 mm TL. A3. PEM 6424 - R. 3. 1 mm OD, 89 mm TL. B. Atherinomorus lacunosus SSF 1 1 1 .3. Bl. 1210H - L. 2.45 mm OD, 69 mm TL. B2. PEM 15432 (RUSI 40584) - L. 3.65 mm OD, 110 mm TL. B3. PEM 8303 (RUSI 34146) - L. 4.10 mm OD, 132 mm TL. C. Hypoatherina temminckii SSF 111.6. Cl. PEM 15576 (RUSI 42687) - L. c.2.3 mm OD, 75 mm TL. C2. PEM 15577 (RUSI 42687) - L. 2.4 mm OD, 74 mm TL. C3. PEM 2845 - L. 2.65 mm OD, 77 mm TL. LOPIIOTIDAE 220. D. Lophotus lacepede SSF 121.2. Dl. PEM 6067 - R. 2.6 mm OD, 1130 mm SL. D2. PEM 15337 - R. 2.95 mm OD, 1 130 mm TL. 1)3. PEM 14585 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 1017 mm TL. TRACIIIPTERIDAE 222. E. Trachipterus trachypterus SSF 119.3. El. 1419H - L. 2.85 mm OD, 1650 mm TL. REGALEC1DAE 223. F. Agrostichthys parkeri SSF 122.1. FI. PEM 13182 - L. 0.9 mm OD, 610 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 40. ATELEOPODIDAE 225. A. Ateleopus natalensis SSF 124.2. Al. PEM 14496 (RUSI 31372) - R. 4.1 mm OD, 80 mm SL. A2. PEM 13060 (RUSI 28332) - L. 6.1 mm OD, 430 mm TL. A3. PEM 12949 (RUSI 28334) - R. 7.0 mm OD, 529 mm TL. MONOCENTRIDIDAE 229. B. Monocentris japonicus SSF 128.1. Bl. PEM 0194 - L. 8.98 mm OD, 100 mm TL. TRACIIICHTHYIDAE 230. C. Hoploslelhus atlanticus SSF 127.2. Cl. PEM 14098 - R. 6.7 mm OD, 222 mm TL. C2. PEM 13696 (RUSI 28325) - R. 6.9 mm OD, 218 mm TL. C3. PEM 14104 - L. 11.9 mm OD, 393 mm TL. C4. PEM 13853 - L. 17.0 mm OD, 435 mm TL. D. H. rnediterraneus SSF 127.4. Dl. PEM 12721 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 85 mm TL. D2. PEM 12720 (RUSI 28327) - R. 7.4 mm OD, 123 mm TL. E. H. melanopus SSF 127.6. El. PEM 14751 - L. 6.0 mm OD, 147 mm TL. E2. PEM 14633 - R. 7.0 mm OD, 165 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 41. ANOMALOI’IDAE 231. A. Photoblepharon palpebratus steinitzi SSF 129.1. Al. PEM 14255 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 85 mm TL. A2. PEM 14254 - L. 4.4 mm OD, 90 mm TL. DIRETM1DAE 232. B. Diretmoides parini SSF 130.1. Bl. PEM 12008 - L. 6.0 mm OD, 80 mm SL. B2. PEM 12011 - L. 7.8 mm OD, 126 mm SL. C. Diretmus argenleus SSF 130.2. Cl. PEM 14295 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 55 mm TL. C2. PEM 14293 - L. 7.0 mm OD, 86 mm SL. C3. PEM 13137 - L. 9.6 mm OD, 129 mm TL. ANOPLOGASTER1 DAE 233. D. Anoplogaster cornuta SSF 131.1. Dl. PEM 0932 - L. 3.4 mm OD. D2. PEM 13138 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 114 mm TL. BERYCIDAE 234. E. Beryx splendens SSF 126.2. El. PEM 14192 - L. 12.0 mm OD, 340 mm TL. E2. PEM 14193 - R. 12.6 mm OD, 365 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 42. BERYCIDAE 234 ctd. A. Centroberyx spinosus SSF 126.3. Al. PEM 14913 (RUSI 35562) - L. 7.1 mm OD, 120 mm TL. A2. 1575H - R. 10.6 mm OD, 152 mm SL. HOLOCENTRIDAE 235. B. Neoniphon sammara SSF 132.4. Bl. 1044H - R. 6.54 mm OD, 230 mm TL. C. Sargocentron caudimaculatum SSF 132.5. Cl. PEM 14273 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 74 mm TL. C2. PEM 3923 (RUSI 16086) - R. 8.24 mm OD, 245 mm TL. D. S. diadema SSF 132.6. Dl. PEM 14264 - L. 3.8 mm OD, 86 mm TL. D2. PEM 6667 (RUSI 21202) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 150 mm TL. D3. PEM 2865 - R. 6.3 mm OD, 173 mm TL. E. S. inaequalis SSF 132.7. El. PEM 14223 (RUSI 30602) - R. 4.7 mm OD, 97 mm TL. F. S. melanospilos SSF 132.10. FI. 1045H - R. 8.72 mm OD, 231 mm TL. G. S. praslin SSF 132.12. Gl. PEM 8664 - R. 5.8 mm OD, 148 mm TL. G2. PEM 5971 - R. 7.6 mm OD, 222 mm TL. H. S. punctatissimum SSF 132.13. HI. PEM 14271 - R. 3.8 mm OD, 94 mm TL. 112. PEM 2804 - L. 5.06 mm OD, 144 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 43. IIOLOCENTRIDAE 235 ctd. A. Sargocentron spiniferum SSF 132.16. Al. PEM 8337 (RUSI 37489) - R. 7.2 mm OD, 192 mm TL. A2. PEM 8336 (RUSI 37489) - R. 7.4 mm OD, 207 mm TL. A3. PEM 15575 (RUSI 42759) - L. 10.14 mm OD, 420 mm TL. B. Myriprislis berndti SSF 132.21. Bl. PEM 2793 - R. 4.75 mm OD, 67 mm TL. B2. PEM 7707 (RUSI 34094) - R. 9.4 mm OD, 202 mm TL. B3. PEM 4613 - L. 9.6 mm OD, 183 mm TL. C. M. chryseres SSF 132.22. Cl. PEM 14859 (RUSI 35588) - R. 11.5 mm OD, 191 mm SL. D. M. hexagona SSF 132.23. DI. PEM 14552 (RUSI 31410) - R. 8.9 mm OD, 195 mm TL. E. M. kuntee SSF 132.24. El. PEM 14231 (RUSI 30640) - L. 8.3 mm OD, 160 mm TL. E2. PEM 2791 - L. 9.82 mm OD, 195 mm TL. F. M. melanosticta SSF 132.25. El. PEM 14232- R. 9.3 mm OD, 203 mm TL. G. M. murdjan SSF 132.26. Gl. PEM 5669 - R. 7.5 mm OD, 129 mm FL. G2. PEM 8783 - R. 10.0 mm OD, 229 mm TL. H. M. pralinia SSF 132.27. HI. PEM 14256 (RUSI 30681) - R. 7.9 mm OD, 146 mm TL. 112. PEM 14274 - R. 8.3 mm OD, 155 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 44. HOLOCENTRIDAE 235 ctd. A. Ostichthys kaianus SSF 132.33. Al. PEM 14276 (RUSI 33523) - R. 18.2 mm OD, 268 mm TL. B. Plectrypops lima SSF 132.34. Bl. PEM 14249 (RUSI 30655) - R. 8.0 mm OD, 105 mm TL. B2. PEM 2926 - L. 8.92 mm OD, 120 mm TL. POLYMIXIIDAE 236. C. Polymixia berndti SSF 134.1. Cl. PEM 13028 (RUSI 28324) - R. 5.7 mm OD, 111 mm TL. C2. PEM 12786 (RUSI 28322) - R. 7.0 mm OD, 160 mm TL. C3. PEM 13029 (RUSI 28323) - L. 7.5 mm OD, 158 mm TL. MELAMPIIAIDAE 238. D. Melamphaes simus SSF 133.5. Dl. 0276H - R. 2.35 mm OD, 100 mm SL. D2. 0278H - R. 3.0 mm OD, 235 mm SL. E. Poromitra crassiceps SSF 133.6. El. PEM 0967 - R. 4.45 mm OD, 101 mm SL? F. P. megalops SSF 133.7. FI. PEM 3421 (SAM 28773) - R. 2.4 mm OD, c.36 mm SL. F2. PEM 3435 (SAM 28772) - L. 2.45 mm OD, c.41 mm SL. G. Scopelogadus beanii SSF 133.12. Gl. PEM 3487 (SAM 28766) - L. 2.05 mm OD, c.45 mm SL. G2. 0875H - L. 3.5 mm OD. H. S. mizolepis mizolepis SSF 133.13. Ill. 1328H - L. 2.25 mm OD, 56 mm SL. I. Sio nordenskjoldii SSF 133.14. II. PEM 3477 (SAM 28771) - L. 3.85 mm OD, c.40 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 45. RONDELETI I DAE 240. A. Rondeletia loricata SSF 136.1. Al. PEM 13133 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 94 mm TL. BARBOURISIIDAE 241. B. Barbourisia rufa SSF 137.1. Bl. PEM 13327 - L. 5.3 mm OD, 274 mm TL. MACROUROCYTTIDAE 244. C. Zenion hololepis SSF 141.1. Cl. PEM 5048 (RUS1 13785) - L. 4.05 mm OD, 112 mm TL. C2. PEM 5049 (RUSI 13785) - R. 4.40 mm OD, 108 mm TL. ZEIDAE 245. D. Cyttus traversi SSF 138.2. Dl. PEM 14425 (RUSI 28328) - R. 3.9 mm OD, 191 mm TL. E. Zenopsis conchifer SSF 138.3. El. PEM 14704 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 490 mm TL. E2. PEM 14702- R. 2.8 mm OD, 495 mm TL. F. Zeus capensis SSF 138.4. FI. PEM 12646- R. 1.4 mm OD, 92 mm TL. F2. PEM 12196 (RUSI 28474) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 205 mm TL. F3. PEM 13435 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 240 mm TL. F4. PEM 12639 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 240 mm TL. G. Z. faber SSF 138.5. Gl. PEM 15003 (RUSI 35575) - R. 1.6 mm OD, 194 mm TL. G2. 0142H - R. 2.45 mm OD, 400 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 46. OREOSOMATIDAE 246. A. Allocyttus verrucosus SSF 139.2. Al. PEM 14940 (RUSI 35561) - L. 2.4 mm OD, 109 mm TL. A2. PEM 14938 (RUSI 35593) - R. 3.6 mm OD, 195 mm TL. A3. PEM 13893 - L. 7.7 mm OD, 360 mm TL. B. Neocyttus rhomboidalis SSF 139.3. Bl. PEM 13846 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 162 mm TL. B2. PEM 9047 (RUSI 37520) - R 3.4 mm OD, 215 mm TL. B3. PEM 13844 - R. 4.3 mm OD, 238 mm TL. C. Oreosoma atlanticum SSF 139.4. Cl. PEM 11406 (RUSI 28331) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 140 mm TL. C2. PEM 11402 (RUSI 28330) - R. 3.05 mm OD, 160 mm TL. C3. PEM 11404- R. 3.4 mm OD, 184 mm TL. D. Pseudocyttus maculatus SSF 139.5. Dl. PEM 12072 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 154 mm TL. D2. PEM 14587 - R. 4.2 mm OD, 365 mm TL. GRAMMICOLEPIDIDAE 247. E. Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi SSF 140.2. El. PEM 13433 - L. 1 .3 mm OD, 49 mm TL. E2. PEM 12796 (RUSI 28329) - L. 2.02 mm OD, 88 mm TL. E3. PEM 12129 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 97 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 47. CAPROIDAE 248. A. Antigonia rubescens SSF 162.1. Al. PEM 14984 (RUSI 35599) - L. 5.1 mm OD, 89 mm TL. A2. PEM 14983 (RUSI 35599) - R. 6.2 mm OD, 106 mm TL. A3. PEM 14980 (RUSI 35599) - L. 6.6 mm OD, 112 mm TL. PEGASIDAE 253. B. Eurypegasus draconis SSF 142.1. Bl. PEM 14329 (RUSI 30386) - R. 1.4 mm OD, 84 mm TL. B2. PEM 14540 (RUSI 31371) - L. 1.8 mm OD, 92 mm TL. AULOSTOMIDAE 254. C . Aulostomus chinensis SSF 143.1. Cl. 0775H - R. 2.65 mm OD, 690 mm TL. FISTULARIIDAE 255. D. Fistularia commersonii SSF 144.1. Dl. PEM 15716- R. 3.85 mm OD, 1095 mm TL. D2. PEM 15718 - L. 5.06 mm OD, 970 mm TL. D3. PEM 15712 - R. 6.28 mm OD, 1310 mm TL. MACRORHAMPIIOSIDAE 256. E. Macroramphosus scolopax SSF 147.2. El. PEM 12860 (RUSI 28336) - R. 1.2 mm OD, 120 mm TL. E2. PEM 12857 (RUSI 28337) - L. 1.25 mm OD, 137 mm TL. F. Notopogon macrosolen SSF 147.4. FI. PEM 12066- L. 0.75 mm OD, 53 mm SL. F2. PEM 11103 - R. 1.4 mm OD, 207 mm SL. F3. PEM 12065 - R. 1 .5 mm OD, 236 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 48. SYNGNATIIIDAE 259. A. Trachyrhamphus bicoarctatus SSF 145.31. Al. PEM 15744 - L. 0.4 mm OD, 375 mm TL. DACTYLOPTERIDAE 260. B. Dactyloptena orientalis SSF 159.1. Bl. PEM 4270 (RUSI 12782) - L. 1.25 mm OD, 48 mm TL. B2. PEM 4271 (RUSI 12782) - L. 1.3 mm OD, 51 mm TL. B3. PEM 0763 - L. 1.65 mm OD, 61 mm TL. C. D. peterseni SSF 159.2. Cl. PEM 7308 (RUSI 28488) - L. 1.4 mm OD, 170 mm TL. C2. PEM 14809 (RUSI 31421) - R. 4.1 mm OD, 239 mm TL. C3. PEM 9331 (RUSI 37491) - L. 5.0 mm OD, 310 mm TL. SCORPAENIDAE 262. D. Apistus carinatus SSF 149.1. Dl. PEM 0408 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 82 mm TL. E. Minous coccineus SSF 149.3. El. PEM 0227 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 50 mm TL. F. Dendrochirus brachypterus SSF 149.4. FI. PEM 15389 (RUSI 40575) - L. 3.75 mm OD, 86 mm TL. F2. 1054H - L. 4.72 mm OD, 116 mm TL. F3. 1288H - L. 5.4 mm OD, 130 mm TL. G. Parapterois heterurus SSF 149.6. Gl. PEM 0240 - L. 6.28 mm OD, 220 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (> — '). Plate 49. SCORPAENIDAE 262 ctd. A. Pterois antennala SSF 149.7. Al. PEM 14520 (RUSI 31368) - R. 3.5 mm OD, 77 mm TL. A2. PEM 15622- R. 4.0 mm OD, 110 mm TL. B. P. miles SSF 149.8. Bl. PEM 14791 (RUSI 31451) - R. 4.3 mm OD, 241 mm TL. B2. PEM 6593 (RUSI 31617) - L. 6.2 mm OD, 296 mm TL. B3. PEM 6471 - L. 8.5 mm OD, 372 mm TL. C. P. radiala SSF 149.10. Cl. PEM 14261 - R. 5.3 mm OD, 118 mm TL. C2. 1002H - L. 6.22 mm OD, 160 mm TL. D. Neomerinthe nielseni SSF 149.14. Dl. PEM 14992 (RUSI 35558) - L. 6.9 mm OD, 129 mm TL. D2. PEM 14991 (RUSI 35558) - R. 7.5 mm OD, 135 mm TL. E. Phenacoscorpius adenensis SSF 149.17. El. PEM 3499 - L. 3.45 mm OD, 54 mm TL. E2. PEM 3502 - L. 3.65 mm OD, 55 mm TL. F. Scorpaena scrofa SSF 149.21. FI. PEM 1 1345 (RUSI 28341) - L. 9.6 mm OD, 204 mm TL. F2. PEM 12469 - L. 11.1 mm OD, 313 mm TL. F3. PEM 8277 - L. 13.0 mm OD, 314 mm TL. F4. PEM 6779 - L. 16.5 mm OD, 459 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 50. SCORPAENIDAE 262 ctd. A. Scorpaenodesparvipinnis SSF 149.28. Al. PEM 14279 (RUSI 30845) - L. 5.1 mm OD, 98 mm TL. A2. PEM 2763 - R. 5.64 mm OD, 103 mm TL. B. Scorpaenopsis gibbosa SSF 149.32. Bl. PEM 6650 - R. 5.5 mm OD, 146 mm TL. B2. PEM 2320 - L. 7.92 mm OD, 226 mm TL. C. S. venosa SSF 149.36. Cl. PEM 8162 (RUSI 34059) - R. 5.8 mm OD, 147 mm TL. C2. PEM 6739 - R. 7.1 mm OD, 173 mm TL. D. Sebastapistes cyanostigma SSF 149.37. Dl. PEM 2764 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 59 mm TL. D2. PEM 14272 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 62 mm TL. E. S. strongia SSF 149.39. El. PEM 8414 (RUSI 34118) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 42 mm TL. F. Taenianotus triacanthus SSF 149.41. FI. PEM 14578 (RUSI 31442) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 90 mm TL. G. Helicolenus dactylopterus SSF 149.42. Gl. PEM 14583 (RUSI 31383) - L. 8.5 mm OD, 180 mm TL. G2. PEM 7812 (RUSI 28340) - L. 9.3 mm OD, 220 mm TL. G3. PEM 7811 (RUSI 28339) - R. 9.8 mm OD, 238 mm TL. H. Sebastes capensis SSF 149.43. III. PEM 12090- L. 9.9 mm OD, 179 mm SL. 112. PEM 12119 - R. 12.5 mm OD, 290 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 51. SCORPAENIDAE 262 ctd. A. Trachyscorpia capensis SSF 149.44. Al. PEM 14070 - L. 9.6 mm OD, 190 mm TL. A2. PEM 14075 - L. 12.7 mm OD, 278 mm TL. A3. PEM 14071 - L. 14.5 mm OD, 347 mm TL. B. Setarches guentheri SSF 149.45. Bl. PEM 15029 (RUSI 35526) - R. 4.8 mm OD, 97 mm TL. B2. PEM 5020 (RUSI 13998) - L. 8.12 mm OD, 165 mm TL. B3. PEM 5019 (RUSI 13998) - L. 10.12 mm OD, 208 mm TL. C. Synanceia verrucosa SSF 149.46. Cl. PEM 9641 (RUSI 37495) - L. 5.0 mm OD, 150 mm TL. C2. PEM 14568 - R. 8.4 mm OD, 325 mm TL. C3. PEM 14566 - L. 8.9 mm OD, 325 mm TL. D. CoccotropsLs gymnoderma SSF 150.2. Dl. PEM 5366 - L. 0.85 mm OD, 20 mm TL. D2. PEM 4199 (RUSI 12781) - L. 1.1 mm OD, 24 mm TL. D3. PEM 4639 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 35 mm TL. CONGIOPODIDAE 267. E. Congiopodus spinifer SSF 152.1. El. PEM 12679 (RUSI 28352) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 176 mm TL. E2. PEM 12665 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 235 mm TL. E3. PEM 12327 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 288 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.1 mm (■ — ')• Plate 52. CONGIOPODIDAE 267 ctd. A. Congiopodus torvus SSF 152.2. Al. PEM 2241 - R. 4.5 mm OD, 390 mm TL. A2. PEM 2242 - L. 5.58 mm OD, 495 mm TL. A3. PEM 1145 - R. 6.24 mm OD, 483 mm TL. TRIGLIDAE 268. B. Chelidonichthys capensis SSF 157.1. Bl. PEM 3035 - R. 3.51 mm OD, 234 mm TL. B2. PEM 7017 (RUSI 34096) - R. 4.0 mm OD, 247 mm TL. B3. PEM 12743 - R. 7.4 mm OD, 605 mm TL. C. C. kumu SSF 157.2. Cl. PEM 11680 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 210 mm TL. C2. PEM 12940 (RUSI 34171) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 240 mm TL. C3. PEM 14415 - L. 5.1 mm OD, 300 mm TL. D. C. queketti SSF 157.3. Dl. PEM 3283 (RUSI 11641) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 276 mm TL. D2. PEM 12753 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 302 mm TL. E. Lepidotrigla faurei SSF 157.4. El. PEM 0456 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 161 mm TL. F. L. muhispinosa SSF 157.5. FI. PEM 12992 - R. 3.7 mm OD, 103 mm TL. F2. PEM 12991 (RUSI 28349) - R. 4.6 mm OD, 140 mm TL. F3. PEM 12994 - L. 5.1 mm OD, 160 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 53. TRIGLIDAE 268 ctd. A. Trigla lyra SSF 157.6. Al. 0283H - L. 5.6 mm OD, 460 mm SL. B. Trigloporus lastoviza africanus SSF 157.7. Bl. PEM 11660 (RUSI 28508) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 77 mm TL. B2. PEM 12463 (RUSI 28347) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 185 mm TL. B3. PEM 15039 (RUSI 35573) - L. 3.9 mm OD, 196 mm TL. B4. PEM 12470 (RUSI 28348) - L. 4.9 mm OD, 235 mm TL. C. Peristedion weberi SSF 158.1. Cl. PEM 12825 - R. 3.8 mm OD, 157 mm TL. C2. PEM 12804 (RUSI 28346) - R. 4.0 mm OD, 170 mm TL. C3. PEM 12803 (RUSI 28345) - R. 4.5 mm OD, 199 mm TL. D. Satyrichthys adetii SSF 158.2. Dl. PEM 14450 (RUSI 28342) - R. 2.5 mm OD, 112 mm TL. D2. PEM 12941 - R. 4.1 mm OD, 248 mm TL. D3. PEM 14362 (RUSI 28343) - 4.5 mm OD, 272 mm TL. E. S. investigatoris SSF 158.3. El. PEM 5023 (RUSI 14096) - R. 3.35 mm OD, 215 mm TL. E2. PEM 5024 (RUSI 14096) - L. 3.85 mm OD, 220 mm TL. E3. PEM 5022 (RUSI 14096) - R. 4.0 mm OD, 237 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 54. PLATYCEPHALIDAE 269. A. Parabembras robinsoni SSF 154.1. Al. PEM 13047 (RUSI 28351) - L. 8.3 mm OD. 205 mm TL. A2. PEM 11989 - R. 9.2 mm OD, 221 mm TL. B. Cociella crocodila SSF 155.1. Bl. PEM 0609 - R. 5.1 mm OD, 135 mm TL. B2. PEM 6617 - L. 11.0 mm OD, 295 mm TL. C. Cociella sp. SSF 155.2. Cl. PEM 15270 (RUSI 36880) - R. 4.4 mm OD, 106 mm TL. C2. PEM 15268 (RUSI 36880) - L. 9.2 mm OD, 236 mm TL. D. Grammoplites portuguesus SSF 155.3. Dl. PEM 0607 - R. 6.42 mm OD, 130 mm TL. D2. PEM 0608 - L. 7.28 mm OD, 160 mm TL. E. Platycephalus indicus SSF 155.6. El. PEM 1037- L. 4.52 mm OD, 154 mm TL. E2. PEM 6651 (RUSI 20011)- R. 8.1 mm OD, 298 mm TL. E3. PEM 6108 - R. 9.7 mm OD, 455 mm TL. F. Sorsogona prionota SSF 155.7. FI. PEM 6427 - R. 7.2 mm OD, 196 mm TL. F2. PEM 15546 (RUSI 42632) - R. 7.5 mm OD, 155 mm TL. G. Thysanophrys arenicola SSF 155.8. Gl. PEM 15634 - R. 4.85 mm OD, 160 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 55. HOPLICHTIIYIDAE 270. A. Hoplichlhys acanthopleurus SSF 156.1. Al. PEM 12884 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 128 mm TL. A2. PEM 12881 (RUSI 28353) - L. 4.8 mm OD, 138 mm TL. PSYCHROLUTIDAE 279. B. Ebinania costaecanarie SSF 160.2. Bl. PEM 14456 (RUSI 31464) - L. 7.3 mm OD, 206 mm TL. B2. PEM 14457 (RUSI 31465) - L. 8.0 mm OD, 285 mm TL. C. Psychrolutes inermis SSF 160.3. Cl. PEM 14622-7.4 mm OD, 401 mm TL. D. P. macrocephalus SSF 160.4. Dl. PEM 14327 (RUSI 28354) - 5.7 mm OD, 183 mm TL. D2. PEM 12207 - 5.8 mm OD, 194 mm TL. D3. PEM 13690 - 6.4 mm OD, 218 mm TL. CENTROPOMIDAE 282. E. Ambassis gymnocephalus SSF 163.1. El. PEM 6839 - R. 2.6 mm OD, 43 mm SL. F. A. natalensis SSF 163.2. FI. PEM 6844 - L. 2.0 mm OD, 66 mm SL. F2. PEM 2162 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 66 mm TL. F3. PEM 0833 - R. 2.85 mm OD, 72 mm TL. G. A. productus SSF 163.3. Gl. PEM 6848 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 69 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 56. PERCICHTHYIDAE 283. A. Polyprion americanus SSF 165.1. Al. PEM 12638 - L. 15.0 mm OD, 530 mm TL. A2. PEM 12092 - L. 18.7 mm OD, 670 mm TL. A3. PEM 10363 - R. 20.1 mm OD, 805 mm TL. B. Acropoma japonicum SSF 176.1. Bl. PEM 13064 -L. 5.1 mm OD, 88 mmTL. B2. PEM 12995 (RUSI 28522) - L. 7.1 mm OD, 120mmTL. B3. PEM 12963 (RUSI 28369) - L. 8.1 mm OD, 136 mm TL. C. Howella sherborni SSF 176.2. Cl. PEM 14331 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 105 mm TL. C2. PEM 13247 - L. 4.3 mm OD, 113 mm TL. D. Neoscombrops annectens SSF 176.3. Dl. PEM 11350 (RUSI 28367) - R. 5.5 mm OD, 140 mm TL (broken ant. colliculum). D2. PEM 12964- R. 6.6 mm OD, 210 mm TL. E. Synagropsjaponicus SSF 176.5. El. PEM 11607 (RUSI 28368) - L. 4.3 mm OD, 105 mm TL. E2. PEM 14416 (RUSI 34073) - L. 5.9 mm OD, 187 mm TL. E3. PEM 14420 - L. 6.8 mm OD, 245 mm TL. F. S. microlepis SSF 176.6. FI. PEM 14455 (RUSI 31378) - L. 6.6 mm OD, 112 mm TL. F2. PEM 14454 (RUSI 31380) - R. 7.1 mm OD, 120 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 57. SERRANIDAE 284. A. Acanthistius sebastoides SSF 166.1. Al. PEM 5200 - L. 2.55 mm OD, 46 mm TL. A2. PEM 1877 (RUS1 9256) - L. 5.42 mm OD, 105 mm TL. A3. PEM 9799 - L. 9.0 mm OD, 185 mm TL. B. Acanthistius sp. SSF 166.2. Bl. PEM 7758 (RUSI 28357) - R. 10.0 mm OD, 225 mm TL. C. Anlhias connelli SSF 166.4. Cl. PEM 4341 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 66 mm TL. C2. PEM 4340 - R. 2.9 mm OD, 70 mm TL. D. A. squamipinnis SSF 166.9. Dl. PEM 2657 - L. 2.35 mm OD, 61 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 14252 (RUSI 35150) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 86 mm TL. D3. PEM 4373 - R. 3.7 mm OD, 111 mm TL. E. Holanlhias natalensis SSF 166.12. El. PEM 6489 - L. 9.5 mm OD, 240 mm TL. E2. PEM 15481 (RUSI 40619) - L. 12.82 mm OD, 469 mm TL. E3. PEM 8807 - R. 13.1 mm OD, 370 mm TL. F. Nemanthias carberryi SSF 166.15. FI. PEM 14241 (RUSI 30636) - R. 2.3 mm OD, 69 mm TL. F2. PEM 14238 (RUSI 30636) - R. 2.8 mm OD, 98 mm TL. F3. PEM 14239 (RUSI 30636) - R. 3.0 mm OD, 102 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 58. SERRANIDAE 284 ctd. A. Aethaloperca rogaa SSF 166.19. Al. PEM 2706 - L. 6.92 mm OD. A2. PEM 8311 - L. 9.3 mm OD, 430 mm TL. B. Cephalopholis argus SSF 166.21. Bl. PEM 0870 - R. 3.55 mm OD, 115 mm TL. B2. 1089H - R. 5.54 mm OD, 95 mm TL. C. C. aurantia SSF 166.22. Cl. PEM 14536 (RUSI 31433) - R. 9.8 mm OD, 228 mm TL. D. C. leopardus SSF 166.25. Dl. PEM 14280 (RUSI 28236) - R. 5.8 mm OD, 125 mm TL. D2. PEM 15638 - L. 5.84 mm OD, 125 mm TL. D3. PEM 15625 - L. 5.96 mm OD, 125 mm TL. E. C. miniata SSF 166.26. El. PEM 2753 - L. 8.52 mm OD, 258 mm TL. E2. PEM 8312 - R. 10.3 mm OD, 370 mm TL. E3. PEM 8367 - L. 11.6 mm OD, 372 mm TL. F. C. nigripinnis SSF 166.27. FI. PEM 8212 (RUSI 30391) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 132 mm TL. F2. PEM 14522 (RUSI 31447) - L. 6.7 mm OD, 173 mm TL. G. C. sexmaculata SSF 166.28. Gl. PEM 15611 - L. 10.58 mm OD, 350 mm TL. G2. PEM 15611 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 59. SERRAN1DAE 284 ctd. A. Cephalopholis sonnerati SSF 166.29. Al. PEM 8245 (RUSI 34149) - L. 6.1 mm OD, 162 mm TL. A2. PEM 8366 (RUSI 37474) - R. 8.8 mm OD, 242 mm TL. A3. PEM 8172 - L. 10.9 mm OD, 431 mm TL. A4. PEM 8361 - R. 12.0 mm OD, 400 mm TL. B. C. spiloparaea SSF 166.30. Bl. PEM 14250 (RUSI 28270) - L. 6.0 mm OD, 132 mm TL. B2. PEM 15784 - R. 7.66 mm OD, 170 mm TL. C. C. urodata SSF 166.-. Cl. PEM 8401 (RUSI 34148) - R. 7.7 mm OD, 225 mm TL. C2. PEM 8199 (RUSI 37506) - R. 8.1 mm OD, 233 mm TL. D. Cromileptes altivelis SSF 166.31. Dl. PEM 11297 - R. 6.4 mm OD, 222 mm TL. E. Epinephelus albomarginatus SSF 166.33. El. PEM 6545 (RUSI 19373) - L. 8.4 mm OD, 173 mm TL. E2. PEM 0747 - R. 13.58 mm OD, 500 mm TL. E3. PEM 6221 - L. 20.0 mm OD, 695 mm TL. F. E. andersoni SSF 166.34. FI. PEM 8578 (RUSI 37472) - R. 9.5 mm OD, 260 mm TL. F2. PEM 10353 - R. 14.0 mm OD, 482 mm TL. F3. PEM 6336 - L. 16.4 mm OD, 662 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 60. SERRANIDAE 284 ctd. A. Epinephelus chabaudi SSF 166.37. Al. PEM 0173 (RUSI 03587) - R. 10.5 mm OD, 245 mm TL. A2. PEM 10364 - L. 13.2 mm OD, 388 mm TL. A3. PEM 8564 - L. 20.4 mm OD, 755 mm TL. B. E. chbrostigma SSF 166.38. Bl. PEM 6178 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 250 mm TL. B2. PEM 2701 - R. 10.24 mm OD. B3. PEM 6177 - R. 12.0 mm OD, 365 mm TL. C. E. fascial us SSF 166.39. Cl. PEM 14570 (RUSI 31409) - R. 6.6 mm OD, 182 mm TL. C2. PEM 14573 - R. 8.2 mm OD, 252 mm TL. C3. PEM 14527 (RUSI 31438) - L. 8.3 mm OD, 247 mm TL. D. E. flavocaeruleus SSF 166.41. Dl. PEM 15440 (RUSI 40609) - L. 7.22 mm OD, 263 mm TL. D2. PEM 15072 - R. 13.0 mm OD, 650 mm TL. D3. PEM 2850 - R. 16.34 mm OD, 835 mm TL. E. E. hexagonatus SSF 166.44. El. PEM 8534 - R. 7.5 mm OD, 325 mm TL. E2. PEM 8547 - R. 11.9 mm OD, 515 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 61. SERRANIDAE 284 ctd. A. Epinephelus lanceolalus SSF 166.45. Al. PEM 9328 - R. 5.1 mm OD, 122 mm TL. A2. PEM 0077 - L. 17.88 mm OD. B. E. longispinis SSF 166.46. Bl. PEM 5671 - R. 10.5 mm OD, 405 mm TL. B2. PEM 35769 - L. 10.76 mm OD, 380 mm TL. C. E. macrospilos SSF 166.40. Cl. PEM 2704 - L. 10.52 mm OD. C2. PEM 2780 - R. 10.72 mm OD. I). E. marginatus SSF 166.43. Dl. PEM 15480 (RUSI 40597) - R. 8.36 mm OD, 242 mm TL. D2. PEM 5731 - L. 12.4 mm OD, 378 mm TL. D3. PEM 6381 - R. 18.0 mm OD, 755 mm TL. E. E. melanostigma SSF 166.49. El. PEM 15399 (RUSI 40602) - R. 9.82 mm OD, 329 mm TL. F. E. merra SSF 166.50. FI. PEM 14574 - L. 10.2 mm OD, 495 mm TL. G. E. morrhua SSF 166.53. Gl. PEM 7716 (RUSI 20109) - L. 8.7 mm OD, 200 mm TL. G2. PEM 15614 - L. 11.34 mm OD, 305 mm TL. G3. PEM 15603 - L. 15.68 mm OD, 510 mm TL. G4. 1584H - L. 17.8 mm OD, 520 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 62. SERRANIDAE 284 ctd. A. Epinephelus rivulalus SSF 166.60. Al. PEM 6162 (RUSI 17176) - L. 7.7 mm OD, 237 mm TL. A 2. PEM 6732 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 280 mm TL. A3. PEM 6304 - R. 10.6 mm OD, 325 mm TL. B. E. spilotoceps SSF 166.63. Bl. PEM 14545 (RUSI 31388) - R. 4.4 mm OD, 114 mm TL. B2. PEM 14544 (RUSI 31382) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 141 mm TL. C. E. tauvina SSF 166.65. Cl. PEM 15682 (RUSI 41959) - L. 8.72 mm OD, 343 mm TL. D. E. tukula SSF 166.66. Dl. PEM 8813 (RUSI 37483) - R. 7.1 mm OD, 245 mm TL. E. Plectropomus sp. SSF 166.-. El. 1347H - R. 8.78 mm OD, 468 mm TL. F. Variola albimarginata SSF 166.74. FI. PEM 15674 - L. 9.82 mm OD, 370 mm TL. G. V. louli SSF 166.75. Gl. PEM 8545 - R. 6.7 mm OD, 215 mm TL. G2. PEM 8158 - R. 8.3 mm OD, 340 mm TL. G3. PEM 8374 - L. 11.3 mm OD, 645 mm TL. H. Serranus cabrilla SSF 166.76. 111. PEM 5627 - L. 3.35 mm OD, 83 mm TL. 112. PEM 6546 - R. 6.5 mm OD, 149 mm TL. H3. PEM 15008 (RUSI 35582) - L. 6.6 mm OD, 162 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 63. SERRANIDAE 284 ctd. A. Callanlhias legras SSF 168.1. Al. PEM 14436 - R. 5.7 mm OD, 171 mm TL. A2. PEM 14432 (RUSI 28355) - R. 7.4 mm OD, 220 mm TL. A3. PEM 14433 - L. 9.0 mm OD, 295 mm TL. B. Dinoperca petersi SSF 180.1. Bl. PEM 8735 - L. 7.2 mm OD, 165 mm TL. B2. PEM 11990- R. 12.0 mm OD, 345 mm TL. B3. PEM 15155- L. 14.68 mm OD, 483 mm TL. GRAMMISTIDAE 285. C. Aulacocephalus lemmincki SSF 167.1. Cl. PEM 15469 (RUSI 40596) - L. 6.68 mm OD, 216 mm TL. C2. PEM 5984 - L. 7.3 mm OD, 260 mm TL. D. Grammistes sexlineatus SSF 167.3. Dl. PEM 8413 (RUSI 341 17) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 37 mm TL. D2. PEM 5979 - R. 3.1 mm OD, 132 mm TL. D3. PEM 8348 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 185 mm TL. E. Aporops allfreei SSF 171.1. El. PEM 14270 (RUSI 31128) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 92 mm TL. F. Pseudogramma potyacantha SSF 171.2. FI. PEM 2770 - L. 2.35 mm OD, 48 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 64. PSEUDOCHROMIDAE 286. A. Pseudochromis dutoiti SSF 169.4. Al. PEM 2858 - R. 1.95 mm OD, 60 mm TL. A2. 0696H - R. 2.15 mm OD, 60 mm TL. B. P. melas SSF 169.5. Bl. PEM 4617 - R. 2.45 mm OD, 86 mm TL. PLESIOPIDAE 288. C. Calloplesiops altivelis SSF 172.1. Cl. PEM 15636 - L. 4.35 mm OD, 74 mm SL. C2. PEM 15636 - R. TERAPONIDAE 291. D. Terapon jarbua SSF 173.2. Dl. PEM 2834 - R. 0.8 mm OD, 24 mm TL. D2. PEM 2830 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 101 mm TL. D3. PEM 2341 - L. 9.36 mm OD, 307 mm TL. E. T. theraps SSF 173.3. El. PEM 15293 (RUSI 36876) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 77 mm TL. E2. PEM 15292 (RUSI 36876) - R. 3.6 mm OD, 109 mm TL. E3. PEM 1693 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 150 mm TL. KUHLIIDAE 293. F. Kuhlia mugil SSF 164.1. FI. PEM 14584 (RUSI 31441) - R. 5.4 mm OD, 160 mm TL. F2. PEM 7441 - R. 5.5 mm OD, 187 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 67. APOGONIDAE 297 ctd. A. Apogon quadrifasciatus SSF 175.20. Al. PEM 0230 - R. 6.76 mm OD, 92 mm TL. B. A. savayensis SSF 175.22. Bl. PEM 15645 - L. 4.98 mm OD, 83 mm TL. B2. PEM 15645 - R. B3. 0986H - L. 5.0 mm OD, 89 mm TL. C. A. semiornatus SSF 175.23. Cl. PEM 8435 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 31 mm TL. C2. PEM 8412 (RUSI 34112) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 47 mm TL. C3. PEM 3883 - L. 4.35 mm OD, 67 mm TL. D. A. taeniophorus SSF 175.25. Dl. 1379H - L. 4.55 mm OD, 60 mm SL. E. Archamiafucata SSF 175.30. El. PEM 15700 (RUSI 42658) - L. 2.95 mm OD, 52 mm TL. E2. PEM 15701 (RUSI 42658) - L. 3.35 mm OD, 54 mm TL. F. Cheilodipterus lineatus SSF 175.36. FI. PEM 14795 (RUSI 31412) - R. 8.4 mm OD, 138 mm SL. F2. PEM 15781 - L. 9.45 mm OD, 200 mm TL. G. Epigonus denticulatus SSF 175.45. Gl. PEM 14707 - R. 4.6 mm OD, 93 mm TL. G2. PEM 14746 (RUSI 31379) - R. 6.5 mm OD, 137 mm TL. G3. PEM 14151 (RUSI 28362) - L. 7.8 mm OD, 164 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 68. APOGONIDAE 297 ctd. A. Epigonus cf. robustus A. SSF 175.47A. Al. PEM 14958 (RUSI 35606) - R. 6.2 mm OD, 138 mm TL. A2. PEM 14953 (RUSI 35606) - R. 8.6 mm OD, 194 mm TL. B. Epigonus cf. robustus B. SSF 175. 47B. Bl. PEM 13418 - L. 8.1 mm OD, 195 mm TL. B2. PEM 14606 - L. 9.7 mm OD, 216 mm TL. C. E. telescopus SSF 175.48. Cl. 1514H - L. 5.68 mm OD, 125 mm TL. C2. 1513H - L. 11.0 mm OD, 235 mm TL. SILLAGIN1DAE 299. D. Sillago chondropus SSF 198.1. Dl. PEM 6000 - L. 10.0 mm OD, 352 mm TL. E. S. sihama SSF 198.3. El. PEM 4347 - L. 4.95 mm OD, 101 mm TL. E2. PEM 8250 (RUSI 34083) - L. 9.2 mm OD, 212 mm TL. MALACANTHIDAE 300. F . Branchiostegus doliatus SSF 197.1. FI. PEM 8827 (RUSI 37425) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 186 mm TL. F2. PEM 14978 (RUSI 35547) - R. 9.7 mm OD, 373 mm TL. F3. PEM 14979 (RUSI 35548) - L. 10.4 mm OD, 381 mm TL. G. B. sawakinensis SSF 197.2. Gl. PEM 5977 - R. 7.5 mm OD, 281 mm TL. H. Malacanlhus brevirostris SSF 197.4. HI. PEM 6756 (RUSI 28363) - R. 3.2 mm OD, 220 mm TL. H2. PEM 5983 - R. 3.5 mm OD, 219 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 69. MALACANTIIIDAE 300 ctd. A. Malacanlhiis latovittatus SSF 197.5. Al. PEM 15479 (RUSI 40624) - L. 4.35 mm OD, 347 mm TL. POMATOMIDAE 303. B. Scombrops boops SSF 177.1. Bl. PEM 2568 - R. 1.7 mm OD, 34 mm TL. B2. PEM 12561 - R. 12.6 mm OD, 311 mm TL. B3. PEM 12637 - R. 15.1 mm OD, 400 mm TL. B4. PEM 15030 (RUSI 35542) - R. 15.8 mm OD, 467 mm TL. C. Pomatomus sallatrix SSF 178.1. Cl. PEM 4327 (RUSI 13267) - L. 3.06 mm OD, 59 mm TL. C2. PEM 3586 (RUSI 11933) - L. 5.55 mm OD, 146 mm TL. C3. PEM 1852 - R. 12.0 mm OD, 417 mm TL. C4. PEM 6039 - L. 17.1 mm OD, 1080 mm TL. RACIIYCENTRIDAE 304. D. Rachycentron canadum SSF 212.1. Dl. PEM 2699 - L. 7.14 mm OD, 845 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 3870 - L. 7.8 mm OD, 844 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 70. ECHENEIDIDAE 305. A. Echeneis naucrates SSF 213.1. Al. 0730H - L. 1.95 mm OD, 550 mm TL. A2. PEM 8495 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 735 mm TL. B. Remora brachyptera SSF 213.4. Bl. PEM 14808 (RUSI 30395) - R. 1.7 mm OD, 140 mm TL. B2. PEM 14807 (RUSI 30395) - R. 2.2 mm OD, 173 mm TL. C. R. remora SSF 213.5. Cl. PEM 14837 (RUSI 37088) - L. 0.9 mm OD, 88 mm TL. C2. PEM 0035 - R. 1.6 mm OD. CARANGIDAE 306. D. Alectis ciliaris SSF 210.1. Dl. PEM 13442 - L. 1.7 mm OD, 73 mm TL. D2. PEM 6757 (RUSI 28388) - L. 2.6 mm OD, 100 mm TL. D3. PEM 15471 (RUSI 40622) - R. 4.2 mm OD, 246 mm TL. E. A. indicus SSF 210.2. El. PEM 12446 - R. 2.45 mm OD, 127 mm TL. E2. PEM 6760 - L. 6.0 mm OD, 345 mm TL. F. Alepes djedaba SSF 210.3. FI. PEM 6717 (RUSI 28387) - R. 4.4 mm OD, 162 mm TL. G. Atule mate SSF 210.4. Gl. PEM 0404 - L. 5.22 mm OD, 218 mm TL. II. Carangoides caeruleopinnatus SSF 210.6. HI. PEM 8620 - L. 5.9 mm OD, 317 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 71 . CARANGIDAE 306 ctd. A. Carangoides equula SSF 210.9. Al. PEM 14380 (RUSI 34130) - L. 2.7 mm OD, 101 mm TL. A2. PEM 12569 (RUSI 28370) - R. 2.8 mm OD, 106 mm TL. B. C. fulvoguttatus SSF 210.11. Bl. PEM 0359 - L. 3.85 mm OD, 160 mm TL. B2. PEM 0451 - R. 7.44 mm OD, 490 mm TL. C. C. gymnostelhus SSF 210.12. Cl. PEM 9584 - L. 5.6 mm OD, 345 mm TL. D. C. tnalabaricus SSF 210.14. Dl. PEM 3933 - R. 4.65 mm OD, 192 mm TL. D2. PEM 3931 - R. c.5.16 mm OD, 219 mm TL. E. Caranx ignobilis SSF 210.17. El. PEM 15450 (RUSI 40568) - L. 4.75 mm OD, 207 mm TL. E2. PEM 7451 - R. 12.8 mm OD, 870 mm TL. E3. PEM 7443 - L. 17.2 mm OD, 1315 mm TL. F. C. melampygus SSF 210.19. FI. PEM 2724 - L. 9.58 mm OD, 534 mm TL. G. C. papuensis SSF 210.20. Gl. PEM 0397 - R. 5.78 mm OD, 247 mm TL. H. C. sent SSF 210.21. III. PEM 0636- R. 7.66 mm OD, 620 mm TL. I. C. sexfasciatus SSF 210.22. II. PEM 10485 - L. 8.5 mm OD, 513 mm TL. J. Chloroscombrus chrysurus SSF 210.24. Jl. PEM 0376 - L. 3.2 mm OD. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 72. CARANG1DAE 306 ctd. A. Decapterus macarellus SSF 210.26. Al. PEM 14277 (RUSI 33516) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 257 mm TL. A2. PEM 15677 - R. 5.38 mm OD, 287 mm TL. A3. PEM 15775 - R. 6.44 mm OD, 325 mm TL. B. D. macrosoma SSF 210.27. Bl. PEM 7270 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 63 mm TL. B2. PEM 13071 (RUSI 28371) - L. 4.1 mm OD, 197 mm TL. C. D. russelli SSF 210.29. Cl. PEM 15459 (RUSI 40556) - R. 4.05 mm OD, 147 mm TL. C2. PEM 15457 (RUSI 40556) - L. 4.6 mm OD, 170 mm TL. D. Elagatis bipinnulata SSF 210.31. Dl. PEM 2081 - L. 4.95 mm OD, 415 mm FL. D2. PEM 5918 - L. 6.2 mm OD, 487 mm FL. E. Gnathanodon speciosus SSF 210.32. El. PEM 9597 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 285 mm TL. E2. PEM 2722 - R. broken, 449 mm TL. F. Lichia amia SSF 210.33. FI. PEM 1594 - R. 0.89 mm OD, 59 mm TL. F2. PEM 2959 - R. 2.72 mm OD, 221 mm TL. F3. PEM 1140 - L. 8.02 mm OD, 601 mm FL. F4. PEM 14854 - R. 9.8 mm OD, 1015 mm TL. Seale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.5 mm ( | — | ). Plate 73. CARANGIDAE 306 ctd. A. Megalaspis cordyla SSF 210.34. Al. PEM 3929 - R. 3.25 mm OD, 174 mm TL. A2. PEM 0357 - R. 6.36 mm OD, 315 mm TL. B. Naucrates ductor SSF 210.35. Bl. PEM 14838 (RUSI 37085) - L. 1.7 mm OD, 258 mm TL. C. Parastromateus niger SSF 210.36. Cl. PEM 0455 - R. 3.75 mm OD, 100 mm TL. D. Pseudocaranx dentex SSF 210.37. Dl. PEM 10442 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 277 mm TL. D2. PEM 13072 - R. 7.8 mm OD, 520 mm TL. D3. PEM 15476 (RUSI 40620) - L. 8.04 mm OD, 435 mm TL. D4. PEM 9281 - L. 8.4 mm OD, 555 mm TL. E. Scomberoides commersonnianus SSF 210.38. El. PEM 2696 - L. 10.24 mm OD. F. S. lysan SSF 210.39. FI. PEM 0201 - L. 6.56 mm OD, 375 mm TL. G. S. tol SSF 210.40. Gl. PEM 2070 - L. 2.15 mm OD, 95 mm SL. G2. PEM 2074 - R. 2.45 mm OD, 118 mm SL. G3. PEM 0422 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 270 mm FL. II. Selar crumenophthalmus SSF 210.41. HI. PEM 15679 - L. 6.3 mm OD, 305 mm TL. H2. PEM 15679 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 74. CARANGIDAE 306 ctd. A. Seriola lalandi SSF 210.44. Al. PEM 1091 - L. 5.78 mm OD, 493 mm FL. A2. PEM 1339 - L. 6.56 mm OD, 795 mm TL. A3. PEM 7731 - R. 9.3 mm OD, 1368 mm TL. B. S. rivoliana SSF 210.45. Bl. PEM 1337 (RUSI 8372)- R. 5.74 mm OD, 438 mm TL. B2. PEM 15620- L. 8.18 mm OD, 580 mm TL. B3. PEM 2922 - R. 9.12 mm OD, 742 mm TL. C. Seriolina nigrofasciata SSF 210.46. Cl. PEM 6387 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 301 mm TL. C2. PEM 11720 - R. 4.8 mm OD, 374 mm TL. D. Trachinotus africanus SSF 210.47. Dl. PEM 6636 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 126 mm TL. D2. PEM 1568 (RUSI 8373) - R. 5.18 mm OD, 371 mm TL. D3. PEM 7817 - R. 10.1 mm OD, 810 mm TL. D4. PEM 9640 - R. 13.0 mm OD, 905 mm TL. E. T. bolla SSF 210.50. El. PEM 8585 - L. 4.0 mm OD, 212 mm TL. E2. PEM 7444 - L. 5.2 mm OD, 265 mm TL. E3. PEM 7449 - L. 7.0 mm OD, 410 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 75. CARANGIDAE 306 ctd. A. Trachurus delagoa SSF 210.51. Al. PEM 2541 - R. 1.69 mm OD, 52 mm TL. A2. PEM 6721 (RUSI 28372) - L. 4.8 mm OD, 152 mm TL. A3. PEM 6710 - L. 6.1 mm OD, 184 mm TL. B. T. trachurus SSF 210.52. Bl. PEM 14438 (RUSI 28373) - L. 3.4 mm OD, 105 mm TL. B2. PEM 12408 - L. 6.6 mm OD, 183 mm TL. B3. PEM 10542 - R. 11.05 mm OD, 418 mm TL. CORYPIIAENIDAE 308. C. Coryphaena hippurus SSF 211.2. Cl. PEM 15372 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 981 mm TL. LEIOGNAT1IIDAE 311. D. Gazzaminuta SSF 201 .1 . Dl. PEM 9359 - L. 1 .4 mm OD, 47 mm TL. D2. PEM 9354 - R. 1 .9 mm OD, 55 mm TL. D3. PEM 6753 (RUSI 28375) - R. 7.9 mm OD, 161 mm TL. E. Leiognathus equula SSF 201 .3. El. PEM 6749 (RUSI 28376) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 110 mm TL. E2. PEM 15284 (RUSI 36870) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 151 mm TL. E3. PEM 14525 (RUSI 31459) - L. 4.8 mm OD, 172 mm TL. E4. PEM 14529 - R. 6.3 mm OD, 223 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 76. LEIOGNATHIDAE 311 ctd. A. Seculor insidiator SSF 201.4. Al. PEM 2080 - R. 1.7 mm OD, 50 mm TL. A2. PEM 15267 (RUSI 36872) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 108 mm TL. A3. PEM 6750 (RUS1 28374) - R. 4.1 mm OD, 125 mm TL. BRAMIDAE 312. B . Brama brama SSF 207.1. Bl. PEM 13874 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 351 mm TL. B2. PEM 13869 - R. 5.1 mm OD 552 mm TL. B3. PEM 13178 - L. 6.2 mm OD, 555 mm TL. C. B. orcini SSF 207.2. Cl. PEM 5164 - R. 2.3 mm OD, 128 mm TL. C2. PEM 5161 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 159 mm TL. C3. PEM 7915 (RUSI 20115) - L. 3.4 mm OD, 262 mm TL. EMMELICHTHYIDAE 315. D. Emmelichihys nitidus nitidus SSF 209.1. Dl. PEM 14720 - R. 3.1 mm OD, 101 mm TL. D2. PEM 12123 - L. 5.1 mm OD, 162 mm TL. D3. PEM 12227 - L. 8.9 mm OD, 371 mm TL. E. Plagiogeneion rubiginosus SSF 209.3. El. PEM 14437 (RUSI 28377) - L. 4.1 mm OD, 120 mm TL. E2. PEM 14359 - R. 6.8 mm OD, 202 mm TL. E3. PEM 11695 - R. 11.0 mm OD, 365 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 77. LUTJANIDAE 316. A. Aphareus rutilans SSF 181.2. Al. PEM 15609 - R. 13.6 mm OD, 650 mm TL. A2. 1408H - L. 17.28 mm OD, 900 mm TL. Y\.Aprion virescens SSF 181 .3 Bl. PEM 8406 - L. 7.1 mm OD, 351 mm TL. B2. PEM 8487 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 505 mm TL. B3. PEM 1658 (RUSI 8538) - R. 9.1 mm OD, 671 mm TL. C. Etelis coruscans SSF 181.4. Cl. PEM 14546 (RUSI 31436) - R. 7.9 mm OD, 255 mm TL. C2. PEM 8496- L. 11.3 mm OD, 573 mm TL. C3. PEM 8478 - R. 16.0 mm OD, 725 mm TL. D. Lutjanus argentimaculatus SSF 181.5. Dl. PEM 0733 - L. 7.48 mm OD, 200 mm TL. D2. PEM 7431 - L. 13.3 mm OD, 463 mm TL. 1)3. PEM 1922 (RUSI 11162) - L. 13.54 mm OD, 636 mm TL. E. L. bohar SSF 181.6. El. PEM 8370 - R. 10.4 mmOD, 402 mm TL. E2. PEM 8375 - R. 10.1 mm OD, 515 mm TL. F. L. fulviflamma SSF 181.8. FI. PEM 0738 - R. 5.66 mm OD, 120 mm TL. F2. PEM 0739 - R. 6.24 mm OD, 135 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 78. LUTJANIDAE 316 ctd. A. Lutjanus fulvus SSF 181.9. Al. PEM 14561 (RUSI 31393) - R. 6.8 mm OD, 143 mm TL. B. L. gibbus SSF 181.10. Bl. PEM 15630 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 81 mm TL. B2. PEM 15770- L. 9.98 mm OD, 320 mm TL. B3. PEM 5662 - R. 10.8 mm OD, 329 mm FL. C. L. kasmira SSF 181.11. Cl. PEM 8305 (RUSI 34141) - L. 7.0 mm OD, 163 mm TL. C2. PEM 8286 - R. 8.5 mm OD, 195 mm TL. C3. PEM 8405 - R. 10.0 mm OD, 231 mm TL. D. L. lutjanus SSF 181.13. Dl. PEM 0495 - L. c.7.5 mm OD, 170 mm TL. D2. PEM 8157 (RUSI 34084) - R. 9.7 mm OD, 220 mm TL. E. L. notatus SSF 118.15. El. PEM 4611 - R. 11.18 mm OD, 255 mm TL. F. L. rivulatus SSF 181.16. FI. PEM 8171 - L. 14.7 mm OD, 455 mm TL. G. L. russellii SSF 181.17. Gl. PEM 8729 (RUSI 37457) - L. 8.6 mm OD, 206 mm TL. G2. PEM 8307 - L. 9.1 mm OD, 232 mm TL. H. L. sanguineus SSF 181.18. HI. PEM 4425 - L. 17.6 mm OD, 597 mm TL. 112. PEM 5964 - L. 22.7 mm OD, c.730 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 79. LUTJANIDAE 316 ctd. A. Lutjanus sebae SSF 181. 19. Al. PEM 0498 - R. 7.1 mm OD, 140 mm TL. A2. PEM 0443 -L. 15.89 mm OD, 470 mm TL. B . Macolor niger SSF 181.20. Bl. PEM 0862 - L. 11.12 mm OD, 575 mm TL. B2. PEM 15484 (RUSI 40615) - L. 11.51 mm OD, 454 mm TL. C. Paracaesio sordida SSF 181.-. Cl. PEM 8188 (RUS1 38882) - R. 8.7 mm OD, 350 mm TL. C2. PEM 15377 - L. 8.84 mm OD, 360 mm TL. D. P. xanthura SSF 181.21. Dl. PEM 8205 - L. 8.7 mm OD, 350 mm TL. D2. PEM 8189 - R. 9.8 mm OD, 375 mm TL. D3. PEM 14858 (RUSI 35533) - R. 10.9 mm OD, 495 mm TL. E. Prislipomoides argyrogrammicus SSF 181.-. El. PEM 14523 (RUSI 31445) - R. 9.7 mm OD, 185 mm TL. F. P. filamentosus SSF 181.22. FI. PEM 14521 (RUSI 31387) - R. 7.2 mm OD, 180 mm TL. F2. PEM 8376 - R. 13.7 mm OD, 585 mm TL. G. P. zonatus SSF 181.24. Cl. PEM 14537 (RUSI 31429) - R. 1 1 .0 mm OD, 232 mm TL. G2. PEM 15610- R. 14.44 mm OD, 390 mm TL. G3. PEM 15600 - L. 16.88 mm OD, 475 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). • r; >?: ■ ■ Plate 80. CAESIONIDAE 317. A. Caesio teres SSF 182.2. Al. PEM 2751 - L. 8.98 mm OD, 334 mm TL. LOBOTIDAE 318. B. Loboles surinamensis SSF 202.1. Bl. PEM 14805 - R. 10.0 mm OD, 410 mm TL. B2. PEM 14861 (RUSI 35532) - L. 11.9mm OD, 457 mm TL. B3. PEM 8549 - R. 20.0 mm OD, 790 mm TL. GERREIDAE 319. C. Gerres acinaces SSF 194.1. Cl. PEM 15449 (RUSI 40567) - R. 3.95 mm OD, 107 mm TL. C2. PEM 15343 - L. 6.76 mm OD, 156 mm SL. C3. PEM 14575 - R. 8.7 mm OD, 320 mm TL. D. G. filamentosus SSF 194.2. Dl. PEM 15345 - R. 3.65 mm OD, 115 mm TL. D2. PEM 0362 - L. 5.70 mm OD, 155 mm TL. E. G. oblongus SSF 194.3. El. PEM 2067 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 55 mm TL. E2. PEM 2066 - R. 3.75 mm OD, 99 mm TL. E3. PEM 5972 - L. 7.20 mm OD, 242 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 81. GERREIDAE 319 ctd. A. Gerres oyena SSF 194.4. Al. 061 1H - R. 4.4 mm OD, 125 mm TL. A2. 0610H - R. 4.7 mm OD, 142 mm TL. A3. PEM 15729 (RUSI 42707) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 160 mm TL. A4. PEM 15728 (RUSI 42707) - L. 5.58 mm OD, 183 mm TL. B. G. rappi SSF 194.5. Bl. 0141H - L. c.6.8 mm OD, 213 mm TL. B2. PEM 15347 - L. 7.26 mm OD, 121 mm SL. 11AEMULIDAE 320. C. Diagramma picturn SSF 179.1. Cl. PEM 5678 - L. 15.4 mm OD, 610 mm TL. C2. PEM 5677 - L. 16.4 mm OD, 700 mm TL. D. Plectorhinchus chubbi SSF 179.2. Dl. PEM 0457 - L. 4.45 mm OD, 131 mm TL. D2. PEM 6153 - R. 7.3 mm OD, 258 mm TL. D3. PEM 0727 - L. 11.12 mm OD, 584 mm TL. E. P. flavotnaculatus SSF 179.3. El. PEM 15401 (RUSI 40604) - R. 9.44 mm OD, 419 mm TL. E2. PEM 6778 - R. 11.0 mm OD, 557 mm TL. F. P. gaterinus SSF 179.4. FI. PEM 0500 - R. 6.68 mm OD, 180 mm TL. F2. 1056H - L. 12.68 mm OD. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 82. HAEMULIDAE 320 ctd. A. Plectorhinchus gibbosus SSF 179.5. Al. PEM 0729 - L. 6.92 mm OD, 180 mm TL. A2. PEM 7454 - R. 13.3 mm OD, 612 mm TL. B. P. plagiodesmus SSF 179.6. Bl. PEM 15483 (RUSI 40616) - R. 11.02 mm OD, 420 mm TL. C. P. playfairi SSF 179.7. Cl. PEM 8249 - R. 12.0 mm OD, 590 mm TL. D. P. schotaf SSF 179.8. Dl. PEM 8191 - L. 12.1 mm OD, 670 mm TL. E. P. sordidus SSF 179.9. El. PEM 2713 - R. 6.06 mm OD, 200 mm TL. F. Pomadasys commersonnii SSF 179.10. FI. PEM 2216 - L. 4.12 mm OD, 84 mm TL. F2. PEM 9614 - L. 8.7 mm OD, 149 mm SL. F3. PEM 10495 - L. 18.8 mm OD 932 mm TL. G. P. furcatum SSF 179.11. Gl. PEM 2690 - L. 8.94 mm OD, 212 mm TL. G2. PEM 6119 - L. 10.0 mm OD. H. P.kaakan SSF 179.13. III. PEM 0406 - R. 12.88 mm OD, 243 mm TL. 112. PEM 11740 - R. 25.7 mm OD, 652 mm TL. I. P. maculatum SSF 179.15. II. PEM 6104 - R. 6.2 mm OD, 128 mm TL. 12. PEM 9620 - R. 8.6 mm OD, 135 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 83. IIAEMULIDAE 320 ctd. A. Pomadasys muUimaculatum SSF 179.16. Al. PEM 7345 - L. 23.3 mm OD, 586 mm TL. B. P. olivaceum SSF 179.17. Bl. PEM 4675 (RUSI 14930) - R. 2.37 mm OD, 42 mm TL. B2. PEM 3054 - L. 4.81 mm OD, 93 mm TL. B3. PEM 3724 - R. 9.2 mm OD, 188 mm TL. C. P. striatum SSF 179.18. Cl. PEM 0092 - L. 3.65 mm OD, 47 mm TL. C2. PEM 6539 (RUSI 28379) - R. 8.3 mm OD, 156 mm TL. C3. PEM 0718 - R. 8.92 mm OD, 195 mm TL. D. P. stridens SSF 179.19. Dl. PEM 15543 (RUSI 42631) - L. 3.19 mm OD, 128 mm TL. D2. PEM 15543 - R. SPARIDAE 322. E. Acanthopagrus berda SSF 183.1. El. PEM 0843 - R. 3.85 mm OD, 107 mm TL. E2. PEM 8731 - R. 6.8 mm OD, 195 mm TL. E3. PEM 7951 - R. 13.4 mm OD, 500 mm TL. F. A. bifasciatus SSF 183.2. FI. PEM 2827 - L. 5.18 mm OD, 219 mm TL. F2. PEM 7432 - R. 8.3 mm OD, 300 mm TL. Scale bars 1 inm ( — ). Plate 84. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Argyrops filamentosus SSF 183.3. Al. PEM 14860 (RUSI 35591) - L. c. 7. 72 mm OD, 219 mm TL. A2. PEM 8645 - L. 10.0 mm OD, 208 mm SL. A3. PEM 5999 - R. 13.0 mm OD, 392 mm TL. B. A. spinifer SSF 183.4. Bl. PEM 6776 - L. 11.8 mm OD, 360 mm TL. B2. PEM 5674 - L. 13.0 mm OD, 350 mm FL. B3. PEM 5990- R. 16.2 mm OD, 540 mm FL. C. Argyrozona argyrozona SSF 183.5. Cl. PEM 6792 - L. 10.0 mm OD, 237 mm TL. C2. PEM 10776 - R. 11.8 mm OD, 293 mm TL. C3. PEM 6922 - R. 19.4 mm OD, 532 mm TL. D. Boopsoidea inornata SSF 183.6. Dl. PEM 10332 - R. 3.1 mm OD, 59 mm TL. D2. PEM 1880 (RUSI 8973) - L. 8.0 mm OD, 177 mm TL. D3. PEM 9585 - L. 10.2 mm OD, 266 mm TL. E. Cheimerius nufar SSF 183.7. El. PEM 4891 - R. 4.8 mm OD, 114 mm TL. E2. PEM 6767 - L. 6.8 mm OD, 185 mm TL. E3. PEM 5772 - R. 17.8 mm OD, 565 mm FL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 85. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Chrysoblephus anglicus SSF 183.8. Al. PEM 5675 - L. 9.3 mm OD, 264 mm FL. A2. PEM 7763 - R. 11.7 mm OD, 590 mm TL. A3. PEM 7759 - L. 13.1 mm OD, 647 mm TL. B. C. cristiceps SSF 183.9. Bl. PEM 5481 - L. 5.0 mm OD, 114 mm TL. B2. PEM 7028 - L. 6.9 mm OD, 169 mm TL. B3. PEM 5846 - L. 12.22 mm OD, 329 mm TL. B4. PEM 0152 - L. 19.72 mm OD, 600 mm TL. C. C. gibbiceps SSF 183.10. Cl. PEM 10794 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 257 mm TL. C2. PEM 15095 - R. 12.36 mm OD, 427 mm TL. C3. PEM 0016 - R. 15.22 mm OD. D. C. laticeps SSF 183.11. Dl. PEM 1949 - R. 2.65 mm OD, 76 mm TL. D2. PEM 7032 - R. 6.2 mm OD, 154 mm TL. D3. PEM 10887 - R. 8.6 mm OD, 249 mm TL. D4. PEM 6828 - L. 13.5 mm OD, 436 mm TL. E. C. lophus SSF 183.12. El. PEM 6278 - L. 12.0 mm OD, 435 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 86. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Chrysoblephus puniceus SSF 183.13. Al. PEM 7527 (RUSI 21231) - L. 8.1 mm OD, 207 mm TL. A2. PEM 7755 - L. 10.3 mm OD, 305 mm TL. A3. PEM 7753 - L. 13.2 mm OD, 454 mm TL. B. Crenidens crenidens SSF 183.14. Bl. PEM 2053 - L. 4.15 mm OD, 101 mm TL. B2. PEM 2047 - L. 5.92 mm OD, 147 mm TL. C. Cymatoceps nasutus SSF 183.15. Cl. PEM 6808 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 104 mm TL. C2. PEM 6806 - L. 12.1 mm OD, 547 mm TL. C3. PEM 1970 - L. 21.0 mm OD, 1740 mm FL. D. Diplodus cervinus hottentotus SSF 183.16. Dl. PEM 2616 (RUSI 12511) - L. 2.95 mm OD, 73 mm TL. D2. PEM 6016 - L. 4.0 mm OD, 101 mm TL. D3. PEM 7430 - R. 10.2 mm OD, 390 mm TL. E. D. sargus capensis SSF 183.17. El. PEM 1420- L. 1.52 mm OD, 33 mm TL. E2. PEM 1202- L. 3.87 mm OD, 112 mm TL. E3. PEM 3859 (RUSI 12032) - R. 6.24 mm OD, 207 mm TL. E4. PEM 6200 - R. 8.20 mm OD, 312 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 87. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Gymnocrotaphus curvidens SSF 183. 18. Al. PEM 7714 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 54 mm TL. A2. PEM 11346- R. 9.7 mm OD, 315 mm TL. A3. PEM 14814 - R. 10. 16 mm OD, 379 mm TL. B. Lithognathus aureti SSF 183.19. Bl. PEM 1804- L. 9.72 mm OD, 375 mm TL. B2. PEM 1800- L. 10.72 mm OD, 420 mm TL. B3. PEM 1793 - R. 11.94 mm OD, 550 mm TL. C. L. lithognathus SSF 183.20. Cl. PEM 1323 - R. 6.33 mm OD, 230 mm TL. C2. PEM 1226 - R. 10.6 mm OD, 395 mm TL. C3. PEM 5723 - R. 14.0 mm OD, 785 mm FL. D. L. mormyrus SSF 183.21. Dl. PEM 4160 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 83 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 4219 - L. 5.5 mm OD, 142 mm TL. D3. PEM 7438 - L. 6.6 mm OD, 223 mm TL. E. Pachymetopon aeneum SSF 183.22. El. PEM 5628 - R. 5.28 mm OD, 120 mm TL. E2. PEM 10261 - L. 9.1 mm OD, 268 mm TL. E3. PEM 9630 - L. 11.8 mm OD, 430 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 88. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Pachymetopon blochii SSF 183.23. Al. PEM 2090 - L. 10.42 mm OD, 320 mm TL. A2. PEM 2193 - R. 10.68 mm OD, 324 mm TL. A3. PEM 11991 (RUSI 27030) - L. 11.2 mm OD, 385 mm TL. B. P. grande SSF 183.24. Bl. PEM 8779 - L. 11.0 mm OD, 352 mm TL. B2. PEM 15119 - L. 12.74 mm OD, 447 mm FL. B3. PEM 5370 - R. 14.0 mm OD, 485 mm TL. C. Pagellus bellottii natalensis SSF 183.25. Cl. PEM 4243 - L. 1 .98 mm OD, 44 mm TL. C2. PEM 3196 (RUSI 11619)- R. 3.32 mm OD, 72 mm TL. C3. PEM 6520 - R. 7.3 mm OD, 172 mm TL. C4. PEM 3198 (RUSI 11619)- R. 10.1 mm OD, 227 mm TL. D. Petrus rupestris SSF 183.26. Dl. PEM 5594 - R. 2.0 mm OD, 58 mm TL. D2. PEM 5623 - L. 6.7 mm OD, 232 mm TL. D3. PEM 15125 - R. 11.58 mm OD, 465 mm TL. D4. PEM 15129 - R. 14.86 mm OD, 825 mm TL. D5. PEM 0512 - R. 23.8 mm OD, c.1200 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 89. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Polyamblyodon germanum SSF 183.27. Al. 1757H - R. 10.96 mm OD, 400 mm TL?. B. P. gibbosum SSF 183.28. Bl. 1756H - R. 10.98 mm OD, 390 mm TL. B2. PEM 9629 - L. 11.4 mm OD, 445 mm TL. C. Polysleganus coeruleopunctalus SSF 183.29. Cl. PEM 2703 - L. 12.98 mm OD, c.390 mm TL. C2. PEM 2731 - L. 16.92 mm OD, 407 mm TL. D. P. praeorbitalLs SSF 183.31. Dl. PEM 10330 - L. 9.7 mm OD, 326 mm TL. D2. PEM 6229 - R. 11.8 mm OD, 515 mm TL. D3. PEM 2851 - R. 17.46 mm OD, 893 mm TL. E. P. undulosus SSF 183.32. El. PEM 11756- R. 11.8 mm OD, 315 mm FL. E2. PEM 11758 - R. 13.8 mm OD, 420 mm FL. E3. PEM 11763 - L. 14.9 mm OD, 497 mm FL. F. Porcostoma denlata SSF 183.33. FI. PEM 4102 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 57 mm TL. F2. PEM 5471 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 96 mm TL. F3. PEM 7528 (RUSI 21233) - L. 5.3 mm OD, 143 mm TL. F4. PEM 7501 - L. 8.3 mm OD, 285 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 90. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Pterogymnus laniarius SSF 183.34. Al. PEM 5455 - L. 2.22 mm OD, 46 mm TL. A2. PEM 11644 - R. 5.0 mm OD. 98 mm TL. A3. PEM 3086 (RUSI 11636) - L. 8.2 mm OD, 183 mm TL. A4. PEM 8601 - L. 13.8 mm OD, 342 mm TL. B. Rhabdosargus globiceps SSF 183.35. Bl. PEM 1311 - R. 5.19 mm OD, 139 mm TL. B2. PEM 2171 (RUSI 1 1450) -R. 9.7 mm OD, 272 mm TL. B3. PEM 1 1376 - R. 1 1 .5 mm OD, 375 mm TL. C. R. holubi SSF 183.36. Cl. PEM 5434 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 88 mm TL. C2. PEM 3860 (RUSI 11956) - R. 4.41 mm OD, 124 mm TL. C3. PEM 1147 - R. 8.39 mm OD, 267 mm TL. D. R. sarba SSF 183.37. Dl. PEM 0017 - R. 4.8 mm OD, c.90 mm FL. D2. PEM 9605 - R. 7.0 mm OD, 208 mm TL. D3. PEM 1976 - L. 11.44 mm OD, 459 mm TL. D4. PEM 6464 - R. 14.4 mm OD, 590 mm FL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 91. SPARIDAE 322 ctd. A. Rhahdosargus thorpei SSF 183.38. Al. PEM 6662 - L. 5.3 mm OD, 132 mm TL. A2. PEM 6734 (RUSI 28490) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 157 mm TL. A3. PEM 61 14 - R. 10.56 mm OD, 277 mm FL. B. Sarpa salpa SSF 183.39. Bl. PEM 5147 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 74 mm TL. B2. PEM 1351 - R. 6.12 mm OD, 224 mm TL. B3. PEM 1352 - L. 7.8 mm OD, 265 mm TL. C. Sparodon durbanensis SSF 183.40. Cl. PEM 4723 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 108 mm TL. C2. PEM 6194 - R. 10.6 mm OD, 676 mm TL. C3. PEM 6385 - L. 13.4 mm OD, 950 mm TL. D. Spondyliosoma emarginatum SSF 183.41. Dl. PEM 4211 (RUSI 12779) - R. 4.22 mm OD, 100 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 3271 (RUSI 11621) - L. 5.62 mm OD, 139 mm TL. D3. PEM 11996- L 10.5 mm OD, 335 mm TL. CENTRACANTIIIDAE 323. E. Spicara australis SSF 184.1. El. PEM 14987 (RUSI 35596) - L. 6.8 mm OD, 164 mm TL E2. PEM 0620 - R. 10.72 mm OD, 275 mm TL. F. 5. axillaris SSF 184.2. FI. PEM 11602 (RUSI 28473) - L. 5.8 mm OD, 132 mm TL. Seale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 92. CENTR ACANTHI DAE 323 ctd. A. Spicara axillaris SSF 184.2. Al. PEM 12212 - L. 7.5 mm OD, 180 mm TL. A2. PEM 12556 (RUSI 28378) - L. 9.7 mm OD, 260 mm TL.~A3. PEM 1221 1 - L. 12.0 mm OD, 307 mm TL. LETHRINIDAE 324. B. Gnathodenlex aureolinealus SSF 185.1. Bl. PEM 15671 - L. 4.95 mm OD, 200 mm TL. B2. PEM 14532 (RUSI 31466) - L. 5.9 mm OD, 284 mm TL. C. Gymnocranius griseus SSF 185.2. Cl. PEM 8544 (RUSI 34074) - R. 5.7 mm OD, 175 mm TL. C2. PEM 14542 - L. 7.7 mm OD, 300 mm TL. D. G. robinsoni SSF 185.3. Dl. PEM 8510 - L. 10.0 mm OD, 450 mm TL. E. Lethrinus crocineus SSF 185.5. El. PEM 8334 - L. 8.2 mm OD, 250 mm TL. E2. PEM 8373 - R. 12.6 mm OD, 455 mm TL. F. L. elongatus SSF 185.6. FI. PEM 8505 - L. 6.1 mm OD, 198 mm TL. F2. PEM 8490 - R. 9.2 mm OD, 345 mm TL. G. L. mahsena SSF 185.11. Gl. 1357H - R. 10.28 mm OD, 424 mm TL. H. L. mahsenoides SSF 185.12. Ill. PEM 8308 (RUSI 34155) - L. 8.6 mm OD, 241 mm TL. 112. PEM 8461 (RUSI 37498) - L. 9.8 mm OD, 280 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 93. LETIIRINIDAE 324 ctd. A. Lethrinus nebulosus SSF 185.13. Al. PEM 14549 (RUSI 31467) - L. 7.8 mm OD, 250 mm TL. A2. PEM 8194 - R. 11.8 mm OD, 418 mm TL. A3. PEM 7436 - R. 15.0 mm OD, 625 mm TL. B. L. rubrioperculatus SSF 185.15 Bl. PEM 14524 (RUSI 31462) - R. 5.8 mm OD, 197 mm TL. C. L. sanguineus SSF 185.16. Cl. PEM 14548 - L. 6.7 mm OD, 225 mm TL. C2. PEM 14547 (RUSI 31432) - R. 7.4 mm OD, 246 mm TL. D. L. variegatus SSF 185.17. Dl. PEM 8530 (RUSI 37469) - R. 7.1 mm OD, 270 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 8202 (RUSI 37464) - L. 8.4 mm OD, 295 mm TL. E. Monotaxis grandoculis SSF 185.19. El. PEM 7434 - L. 9.5 mm OD, 507 mm TL. NEMIPTERIDAE 325. F. Nemipterus bipunctatus SSF 186.1 . FI. PEM 0401 - L. 7.2 mm OD, 184 mm TL. F2. PEM 0400 - R. 7.88 mm OD, 212 mm TL. G. Parascolopsis eriomma SSF 186.3. Cl. PEM 15551 (RUSI 42680)- R. 7.84 mm OD, 265 mm TL. G2. PEM 15550 (RUSI 42680) - R. 8.28 mm OD, 257 mm TL. II. Scolopsis vosmeri SSF 186.6. III. PEM 4357 - L. 5.38 mm OD, 193 mm TL. 112. PEM 6168 (RUSI 17194) - L. 6.4 mm OD, 207 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 94. SCIAENIDAE 326. A. Argyrosomus hololepidotus A SSF 199.1 A. Al. PEM 1706 - R. 6.0 mm OD, 141 mm TL. A2. PEM 8694 - R. 8.1 mm OD, 225 mm TL. A3. PEM 5374 - L. 31.4 mm OD, 1348 mm TL. B. A. hololepidotus B SSF 199. IB. Bl. PEM 3574 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 47 mm TL. B2. PEM 4190 (RUSI 12765) - R. 13.94 mm OD, 389 mm TL. B3. PEM 1820 - R. 17.6 mm OD, 595 mm TL. C. A. thorpei SSF 199.2. Cl. PEM 7736 (RUSI 28382) - L. 8.4 mm OD, 165 mm TL. C2. PEM 7739 (RUSI 28382) - L. 12.4 mm OD, 277 mm TL. C3. PEM 5804 - R. 21.2 mm OD, 682 mm TL. D. Atractoscion aequidens SSF 199.3. Dl. PEM 4853 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 71 mm TL. D2. PEM 3662 - L. 7.29 mm OD, 181 mm TL. D3. PEM 5791 - R. 21.7 mm OD, 965 mm TL. E. Atrobucca nibe SSF 199.4. El. PEM 0635 - R. 7.88 mm OD, 142 mm TL. E2. PEM 0239 - L. 11.69 mm OD, c.220 mm TL. E3. PEM 9777 - R. 16.8 mm OD, 393 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Hate 95. SCIAENIDAE 326 ctd. A. Johnius amblycephalus SSF 199.5. Al. PEM 15322 (RUSI 36867) - R. 6.52 mm OD, 103 mm TL. A2. PEM 15321 (RUSI 36867) - L. 9.94 mm OD, 180 mm TL. A3. PEM 15320 (RUSI 36867) - R. 12.08 mm OD, 225 mm TL. B .J. dussumieri SSF 199.6. Bl. PEM 15278 (RUSI 36869) - L. 5.72 mm OD, 123 mm TL. B2. PEM 15277 (RUSI 36869) - L 7.72 mm OD, 148 mm TL. B3. PEM 15324 (RUSI 36866) - R. 9.44 mm OD, 175 mm TL. C. Otolithes ruber SSF 199.7. Cl. PEM 1722 - R. 5.3 mm OD, 106 mm TL. C2. PEM 7738 (RUSI 28383) - L. 11.1 mm OD, 260 mm TL. C3. PEM 6068 - R. 15.2 mm OD, 405 mm TL. D. Umbrina canariensis SSF 199.8. Dl. PEM 4292 (RUSI 12785) - R. 4.8 mm OD, 104 mm TL. D2. PEM 14878 (RUSI 35587) - L. 9.5 mm OD, 240 mm TL. 1)3. PEM 14875 (RUSI 35544) - L. 13.7 mm OD, 368 mm TL. E. U. ronchus SSF 199.9. El. PEM 2688 - R. 11.0 mm OD, 329 mm TL. E2. PEM 14863 (RUSI 35540) - R. 11.06 mm OD, 443 mm TL. E3. PEM 14217 R. 22.5 mm OD, 813 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 96. MULLIDAE 327. A. Mulloides Jlavolineatus SSF 196.1. Al. PEM 15653 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 96 mm TL. A2. PEM 15643 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 118 mm TL. A3. PEM 14555 (RUSI 31422) - R. 3.6 mm OD, 200 mm TL. B. Parupeneus barberinus SSF 196.3. Bl. PEM 15448 (RUSI 40566) - R. 1.45 mm OD, 66 mm TL. B2. 1255H - L. 2.65 mm OD, 170 mm TL. B3. 1254H - L. 3.75 mm OD, 255 mm TL. C. P. bifasciatus SSF 196.4. Cl. PEM 15644- R. 2.2 mm OD, 105 mm TL. C2. PEM 14534 (RUSI 31435) - L. 3.7 mm OD, 250 mm TL. C3. PEM 14530 - R. 4.5 mm OD, 286 mm TL. D. P. cinnabarinus SSF 196.5. Dl. PEM 14528 (RUSI 31468) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 227 mm TL. E. P. cyclostomus SSF 196.6. El. PEM 14526 (RUSI 31431) - R. 3.6 mm OD, 246 mm TL. E2. PEM 5688 - R. 4.4 mm OD, 253 mm FL. F. P. indicus SSF 196.7. FI. PEM 15444 (RUSI 40562) - R. 1.55 mm OD, 69 mm TL. G. P. macronema SSF 196.8. Gl. PEM 8247 (RUSI 34150) - L. 3.4 mm OD, 181 mm TL. G2. PEM 6726 (RUSI 28389) - L. 3.7 mm OD, 243 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 97. MULLIDAE 327 ctd. A. Parupeneus pleurostigma SSF 196.9. Al. PEM 9607 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 224 mm TL. B. P. rubescens SSF 196.10. Bl. PEM 10334 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 79 mm TL. B2. PEM 6728 (RUSI 28390) - R. 3.0 mm OD, 170 mm TL. B3. PEM 14851 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 345 mm TL. B4. PEM 6038 (RUSI 17474) - R. 5.2 mm OD, 400 mm TL. C. Upeneus iragula SSF 196.12. Cl. PEM 5068 (RUSI 13763) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 176 mm TL. D. U. vittatus SSF 196.13. Dl. PEM 15453 (RUSI 40570) - L. 3.65 mm OD, 127 mm TL. D2. PEM 14557 (RUSI 31413) - L. 4.3 mm OD, 185 mm TL. D3. PEM 14556 (RUSI 31398) - R. 4.4 mm OD, 165 mm TL. MONODACTYLIDAE 328. E. Monodactylus argenteus SSF 193.1. El. 1196H - R. 2.8 mm OD, 78 mm TL. E2. 1158H - L. 4.1 mm OD, 107 mm TL. E3. 1157H - R. 4.5 mm OD, 125 mm TL. F. M. falciformis SSF 193.2. FI. PEM 1243 - R. 2.45 mm OD, 52 mm TL. F2. PEM 1233 - R. 2.65 mm OD, 63 mm TL. F3. PEM 1229 - L. 6.22 mm OD, 167 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 98. PEMPHERI DI DAE 329. A. Pempheris adusta SSF 216.2. Al. PEM 2676 - R. 3.5 mm OD, 88 mm TL. A2. PEM 2686 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 106 mm TL. A3. PEM 2672 - R. 7.18 mm OD, 184 mm TL. B. P. mangula SSF 216.3. Bl. PEM 14265 - L. 6.2 mm OD, 170 mm TL. CORACIN1DAE 333. C. Goracinus capensis SSF 187.1. Cl. PEM 9320 - L. 8.0 mm OD, 413 mm TL. C2. PEM 10328 - R. 8.7 mm OD, 420 mm TL. D. C. multifasciatus SSF 187.2. Dl. PEM 6736 (RUSI 28391) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 198 mm TL. D2. PEM 0604 - L. 5.28 mm OD, 202 mm TL. KYPHOSIDAE 334. E. Parascorpis typus SSF 188.1. El. PEM 1653 - L. 9.88 mm OD, 310 mm TL. E2. PEM 11324 - R. 11.5 mm OD, 380 mm TL. E3. PEM 0275 - R. 14.24 mm OD, 450 mm TL. F. Kyphosus bigibbus SSF 189.1. FI. PEM 0809 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 87 mm TL. F2. PEM 2729 - R. 9.14 mm OD, 440 mm TL. F3. PEM 2728 - R. 9.94 mm OD, 521 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 99. KYPIIOSIDAE 334 ctd. A. Kyphosus cinerascens SSF 189.2. Al. PEM 9280 (RUSI 35707) - L. 4.5 mm OD, 210 mm TL. A2. PEM 0421 - R. 6.98 mm OD, 380 mm TL. B. K. vaigiensis SSF 189.3. Bl. 0203H - L. 7.96 mm OD, 240 mm TL. C. Neoscorpis lithophilus SSF 190.1. Cl. PEM 11992 (RUSI 34122) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 45 mm TL. C2. PEM 6649 - L 5.4 mm OD, 259 mm TL. C3. PEM 4936 - R. 8.3 mm OD, 408 mm TL. EPIIIPPIDIDAE 335. D. Platax orbicularis SSF 192.1. Dl. PEM 6600 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 155 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 6459 - L. 6.2 mm OD, 227 mm TL. E. P. pinnatus SSF 192.2. El. PEM 0821 - R. 3.28 mm OD, 103 mm TL. E2. PEM 15402 (RUSI 40601) - R. 5.58 mm OD, 231 mm TL. E3. PEM 9633 - R. 7.8 mm OD, 315 mm TL. F. Triplerodon orb'is SSF 192.4. FI. PEM 0637 - L. 5.82 mm OD, 220 mm TL. G. Drepane longimanus SSF 195.1. Gl. PEM 15288 (RUSI 36874) - R. 3.45 mm OD, 83 mm TL. G2. PEM 1687 - L. 7.66 mm OD, 211 mm TL. G3. PEM 5469 (RUSI 15262) - L. 9.7 mm OD, 320 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 100. CHAETODONTIDAE 338. A. Chaetodon auriga SSF 205.1. Al. PEM 7699 - R. 2.5 mm OD, 62 mm TL. A2. PEM 6619 (RUSI 28392) - L. 3.9 mm OD, 139 mm TL. B. C. blackburnii SSF 205.3. Bl. PEM 9282 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 45 mm TL. B2. PEM 6125 (RUSI 17188) - R. 3.8 mm OD, 103 mm TL. B3. PEM 7700 (RUSI 28393) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 115 mm TL. C. C. dolosus SSF 205.4. Cl. PEM 4614 - L. 3.45 mm OD, 133 mm TL. C2. PEM 4370 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 111 mm TL. D. C. falcula SSF 205.5. Dl. PEM 7697 (RUSI 28394) - L. 2.1 mm OD, 44 mm TL. E. C. guttatissimus SSF 205.6. El. PEM 6621 (RUSI 28395) - R. 3.2 mm OD, 88 mm TL. E2. PEM 6602 (RUSI 28395) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 98 mm TL. E3. PEM 6126 (RUSI 17189) - R. 3.5 mm OD, 103 mm TL. F. C. kleinii SSF 205.7. FI. PEM 4618 - R. 1.9 mm OD, 60 mm TL. F2. PEM 4371 - L. 3.15 mm OD, 105 mm TL. F3. PEM 6620 (RUSI 28396) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 105 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 101. CHAETODONTIDAE 338 ctd. A. Chaetodon lunula SSF 205.9. Al. PEM 9327 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 122 mm TL. A2. PEM 6616 - L. 4. 1 mm OD, 150 mm TL. A3. PEM 6597 - L. 5.4 mm OD, 200 mm TL. B. C. madagaskariensis SSF 205. 10. Bl. PEM 6124 (RUSI 17192) - L. 3.2 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B2. PEM 6751 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 109 mm TL. C. C. marleyi SSF205.il. Cl. PEM 4058 - L. 2.95 mm OD, 66 mm TL. C2. PEM 10331 - L. 4.4 mm OD, 105 mm TL. C3. PEM 15204 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 112 mm TL. I). C. melannotus SSF 205.12. Dl. PEM 7695 (RUS1 28398) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 45 mm TL. E. C. meyeri SSF 205.13. El. PEM 11315 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 62 mm TL. E2. PEM 6655 (RUS1 28399) - L. 4.6 mm OD, 159 mm TL. F. C. mitratus SSF 205.-. FI. PEM 14565 (RUSI 31443) - R. 3.2 mm OD, 100 mm TL. G. C. trifascialis SSF 205.14. Gl. 0984H - L. 3.7 mm OD, 140 mm TL. G2. PEM 8591 (RUSI 37447) - L. 3.8 mm OD, 135 mm TL. II. C. trifasciatus SSF 205.15. HI. PEM 0091 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 60 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.5 mm ( | — | ). Plate 102. CHAETODONTIDAE 338 ctd. A. Chaetodon unimaculatus SSF 205.16. Al. PEM 8635 (RUSI 37488) - R. 3.6 mm OD, 114 mm TL. A2. PEM 6744 (RUSI 28450) - L. 4.2 mm OD, 131 mm TL. A3. PEM 9601 (RUSI 37501) - R. 5.6 mm OD, 166 mm TL. B. C. vagabundus SSF 205.17. Bl. 0314H - L. 3.0 mm OD, 100 mm TL. B2. PEM 15410 (RUSI 40614) - R. 4.05 mm OD, 143 mm TL. B3. PEM 6656 - R. 4.7 mm OD, 171 mm TL. C. C. xanthocephalus SSF 205.18. Cl. PEM 0018 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 63.5 mm TL. D. Forcipiger flavissimus SSF 205.20. Dl. PEM 8870 (RUSI 37448) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 90 mm TL. D2. PEM 6707 (RUSI 28451) - L. 4.6 mm OD, 155 mm TL. E. Hemitaurichthys zoster SSF 205.21. El. PEM 3927 (RUSI 12034) - L. 178 mm TL. F. Heniochus acuminatus SSF 205.22. FI. PEM 0373 - R. 1.7 mm OD. F2. PEM 0008 - R. 3.3 mm OD. F3. PEM 2752 - R. 5.8 mm OD, 201 mm TL. G. H. monoceros SSF 205.24. Gl. 0318H - R. 2.0 mm OD, 50 mm TL. G2. PEM 15590 - R. 4.9 mm OD, 160 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 103. POM AC ANTI II DAF 339. A. Apolemichthys trimaculatiis SSF 204.2. Al. 1722H - L. 3.4 mm OD. A2. PEM 0370 - L. 4.65 mm OD. B. Centropyge acanihops SSF 204.3. Bl. PEM 6481 - L. 3.6 mm OD, 73 mm TL. C. C. bispinosus SSF 204.4. Cl. PEM 14258 (RUSI 30680) - R. 3.0 mm OD, 53 mm TL. C2. PEM 2759 - L. 4.35 mm OD, 83 mm TL. C3. PEM 0094 - R. 6.18 mm OD, 88.8 mm TL. I). C. mullispinis SSF 204.5. Dl. PEM 8428 (RUSI 28501) - L. 2.3 mm OD, 30 mm TL. D2. PEM 3912 - R. 4. 1 mm OD, 74 mm TL. D3. PEM 14794 (RUSI 31397) - L. 5.2 mm OD, 96 mm TL. E. Genicanthus caudovittatus SSF 204.6. El. PEM 15720 (RUSI 42663) - L. c.7.1 mm OD, 145 mm TL. F. Pomacanthus annularis SSF 204.7. FI. PEM 0374 - L. 8.28 mm OD. G. P. chrysurus SSF 204.8. Cl. PEM 15388 (RUSI 40607) - L. 7.92 mm OD, 228 mm TL. II. P. imperator SSF 204.9. III. 0755 H - R. 2.1 mm OD, 42 mm TL. 112. PEM 4369 - R. 4.1 mm OD, 97 mm TL. 113. PEM 6673 - L. 8.8 mm OD, 315 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). ' •* ■ f- Plate 104. POMACANTHIDAE 339 ctd. A. Pomacanthus rhomboides SSF 204.12. Al. PEM 4884 - L. 2.15 mm OD, 25 mm TL. A2. PEM 8636 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 66 mm TL. A3. PEM 6780 (RUSI 28452) - L. 5.7 mm OD, 110 mm TL. A4. PEM 8185 - R. 12.0 mm OD, 340 mm TL. B. P. semicirculatus SSF 204.11. Bl. 6608 (RUSI 32186) - L. 5.4 mm OD, 109 mm TL. B2. PEM 9595 - R. 10.1 mm OD, 240 mm TL. B3. PEM 5906 - R. 11.2 mm OD, 384 mm TL. C. Pygoplites diacanthus SSF 204.13. Cl. 0975H - L. 5.54 mm OD, 87 mm SL. PENTACEROTIDAE 341. D. Hisliopterus typus SSF 203.1. Dl. PEM 0125 - L. 2.55 mm OD, 65 mm TL. OPLEGNATHIDAE 343. E. Oplegnathus conwayi SSF 206.1. El. PEM 5485 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 110 mm TL. E2. PEM 5567 - R. 10.75 mm OD, 628 mm TL. F. O. robinsoni SSF 206.3. FI. PEM 0297 - L. 5.82 mm OD, 188 mm TL. F2. PEM 8248 - L. 9.4 mm OD, 380 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 105. CICNLIDAE 344. A. Oreochromis mossambicus SSF 218.1. Al. PEM 1676 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 56 mm TL. A2. PEM 1669 - L. 5.22 mm OD, 145 mm TL. A3. PEM 3385 - L. 7.32 mm OD, 233 mm TL. POMACENTRIDAE 346. B. Abudefduf sexfasciaius SSF 219.13. Bl. PEM 0364 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 120 mm TL. B2. PEM 5917 - R. 5.0 mm OD, c.145 mm TL. C. A. sordidus SSF 219.5. Cl. PEM 0445 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 100 mm TL. C2. PEM 6594 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 155 mm TL. D. A. sparoides SSF 219.6. 1)1. PEM 2841 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 58 mm TL. D2. PEM 2840 - R. 3.05 mm OD, 85 mm TL. E. A. vaigiensis SSF 219.7. El. PEM 2839 - L. 2.3 mm OD, c.72 mm TL. E2. PEM 4353 * L. 3.2 mm OD, 111 mm TL. E3. PEM 8790 (RUSI 37516) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 142 mm TL. E4. PEM 5914 - R. 5.0 mm OD, c.170 mm TL. F. A. akallopisos SSF 219.8. FI. PEM 11312 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 60 mm TL. F2. PEM 8873 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 72 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 106. POMACENTRIDAE 346 ctd. A. Amphiprion allardi SSF 219.9. Al. PEM 4388 - R. 2.3 mm OD, 63 mm TL. A2. PEM 6758 (RUSI 28453) - R. 2.9 mm OD, 85 mm TL. A3. PEM 6130 (RUSI 17187) - R. 3.7 mm OD, 121 mm TL. A4. PEM 8633 - R. 4.3 mm OD, 128 mm TL. B. Chromis dasygenys SSF 219.3. Bl. PEM 3902 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 102 mm TL. B2. PEM 4339 - R. 4.85 mm OD, 122 mm TL. C. C. dimidiata SSF 219.14. Cl. PEM 8446 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 30 mm TL. C2. PEM 8424 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 48 mm TL. C3. PEM 8423 (RUSI 28499) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 60 mm TL. D. C. nigrura SSF 219.16. Dl. PEM 2771 - R. 1.5 mm OD, 39 mm TL. D2. PEM 2856 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 51 mm TL. E. C. opercularis SSF 219.17. El. PEM 14793 (RUSI 31385) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 130 mm TL. E2. PEM 14792 (RUSI 31416) - R. 5.6 mm OD, 156 mm TL. F. C. viridis SSF 219.12. FI. 1038H - L. 1.45 mm OD, 44 mm TL. F2. 1037H - L. c.1.5 mm OD, 46 mm TL. Scale bars 0.5 mm ( | — ) ). Plate 107. POMACENTRIDAE 346 ctd. A. Chromis weberi SSF 219.19. Al. PEM 2901 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 93 mm TL. A2. PEM 2801 - R. 3.75 mm OD 104 mm TL. B. Chrysiptera leucopoma SSF 219.23. Bl. PEM 2847 - R. 2.3 mm OD, 61 mm TL B2. PEM 2716 - R. 2.3 mm OD, 58 mm TL. C. Dascyllus carneiis SSF 219.26. Cl. 0996H - R. 1.7 mm OD, 44 mm TL. C2. PEM 14242 (RUSI 30632) - R. 2.6 mm OD, 80 mm TL. C3. PEM 15789 - R. 2.85 mm OD, 84 mm TL. D. D. trimaculatus SSF 219.27. 1)1. PEM 8791 (RUSI 37435)- R. 3.8 mm OD, 100 mm TL. D2. PEM 2811 - R. 4.5 mm OD, 141 mm TL. E. Lepidozygus tapeinosoma SSF 219.28. El. PEM 14234 (RUSI 30635) - L. 2.3 mm OD, 73 mm TL. E2. PEM 14236 (RUSI 30635) - R. 2.5 mm OD, 79 mm TL. E. Neopomacenlrus cyanomos SSF 219.29. El. 1746H - R. 2.5 mm OD. G. Pleclroglyphidodon dickii SSF 219.33. Gl. PEM 14245 - R. 2.5 mm OD, 60 mm TL. II. P. lacrymatus SSF 219.36. III. 1014H - R. 3.6 mm OD, 83 mm TL. 112. PEM 14266 (RUSI 31144) - R. 4.3 mm OD, 87 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 108. POMACENTRIDAE 346 ctd. A. Plectrogfyphidodon leucozonus SSF 219.37. Al. PEM 2679 - R. 2.55 mm OD, 115 mm TL. A2. PEM 6766 (RUSI 28454) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 93 mm TL. A3. PEM 0878 - R. 3.5 mm OD, c.120 mm TL. B. Pomacentrus trichourus SSF 219.41. Bl. PEM 8422 (RUSI 28500) - R. 2.6 mm OD, 47 mm TL. B2. PEM 15783 - L. 4.05 mm OD, 82 mm TL. C. P. trilineatus SSF 219.42. Cl. 1204H - R. 3.9 mm OD, 101 mm TL. C2. 1205H - R. 3.45 mm OD, 78 mm TL. CIRRIIITIDAE 348. D. Ambfycirrhitus bimacula SSF 214.1. Dl. PEM 2855 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 63 mm TL. E. Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus SSF 214.2. El. PEM 14244 (RUSI 30610) - R. 2.3 mm OD, 58 mm TL. E2. PEM 2912 - R. 2.85 mm OD, 78 mm TL. F. Cirrhitus pinnulatus SSF 214.3. FI. 0635H - R. 5.15 mm OD, 207 mm TL. F2. PEM 2732 - L. 6.08 mm OD, 223 mm TL. G. Cyprinocirrhites polyactis SSF 214.5. Gl. PEM 7720 (RUSI 20111) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 174 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 109. CIRRIIITIDAE 348 ctd. A. Paracirrhites arcatus SSF 214.6. Al. PEM 291 1 - L. 2.35 mm OD, 58 mm TL. A2. PEM 14243 - L. 3.2 mm OD, 80 mm TL. A3. PEM 2908 - R. 3.44 mm OD, 93 mm TL. B. P. forsleri SSF 214.7. Bl. 0801H - L. 2.4 mm OD, 65 mm TL. C I IEI LOD ACT YLI D AE 351. C. Cheilodactylus fasciatus SSF 215.1. Cl. PEM 2306 - L. 1.79 mm OD, 74 mm TL. C2. PEM 10380 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 104 mm TL. C3. PEM 1138 (RUSI 8563) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 254 mm TL. C4. PEM 1 1343 - R. 6.5 mm OD, 275 mm TL. I). C. pixi SSF 215.2. Dl. PEM 5587 - R. 2.0 mm OD, 82 mm TL. D2. PEM 5340 (RUSI 13870) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 164 mm TL. D3. PEM 4526 - L. 4.75 mm OD, 186 mm TL. E. Chirodactylus brachydactylus SSF 215.3. El. PEM 2613 (RUSI 11442)- R. 2.05 mm OD, 87 mm TL. E2. PEM 2941 - R. 5.4 mm OD, 301 mm TL. E3. PEM 0052 - L. 6.55 mm OD, 381 mm TL. Scale bars 1 nun ( — ). Plate 110. CHEILODACTYLIDAE 351 ctd. A. Chirodactylus grandis SSF 215.4. Al. PEM 7193 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 60 mm TL. A 2. PEM 11632- L. 3.6 mm OD, 163 mm TL. A3. PEM 12204- R. 6.2 mm OD, 490 mm TL. A4. PEM 10264- R. 9.1 mm OD, 870 mm TL. B. C. jessicalenorum SSF 215.5. Bl. PEM 9632 - R. 6.8 mm OD, 440 mm TL. B2. PEM 12460 - L. 9.4 mm OD, 795 mm TL. CEPOLIDAE 354. C. Owstonia cf weberi? SSF 226.-. Cl. PEM 5090 (RUSI 14018) - L. 5.48 mm OD, 90 mm SL. C2. PEM 5089 (RUSI 14018) - R. 5.68 mm OD, 100 mm SL. C3. PEM 5091 (RUSI 14018) - L. 9.9 mm OD, 260 mm SL. MUGILIDAE 355. D. Crenimugil crenilabis SSF 222.1. Dl. 1179H - R. 6.5 mm OD, 242 mm TL. E. Liza alata SSF 222.2. El. 0468H - L. 7.9 mm OD, 270 mm TL. F. L. dumerilii SSF 222.3. FI. PEM 1049 - R. 4.1 mm OD, 87 mm SL. F2. PEM 1047 - R. 5.5 mm OD, 129 mm SL. F3. PEM 1164 - L. 9.49 mm OD, 274 mm SL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 111. MUGILIDAE 355 eld. A. Liza macrolepis SSF 222.5. Al. PEM 1039 - L. 7.0 mm OD, 225 mm TL. A2. PEM 1038 R. 7.92 mm OD, 263 mm TL. B. L. richardsonii SSF 222.7 . Bl. PEM 1499 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 79 mm TL. B2. PEM 10422 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 120 mm TL. B3. PEM 10418 - R. 6.3 mm OD, 192 mm TL. B4. PEM 2434 - L. 10.5 mm OD, 371 mm TL. C. L tricuspidens SSF 222.8. Cl . PEM 9933 - L. 4.1 mm OD, 127mmTL. C2. PEM 10425 - R. 6.3 mm OD, 242 mm TL. C3. PEM 1441 - L. 10.44 mm OD, 540 mm TL. D. Mugil cephalus SSF 222.10. Dl. PEM 1503 - R. 2.1 mm OD, 55 mm TL. D2. PEM 1050 - R. 4.42 mm OD, 1 19 mm TL. 1)3. PEM 10348 - R. 13.0 mm OD, 736 mm TL. E. Myxus capensis SSF 222.11. El. PEM 1 154 - R. 6.4 mm OD, 225 mm TL. E2. PEM 1150 - R. 7.4 mm OD, 289 mm TL. E3. PEM 2531 - R. 12.25 mm OD, 482 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 112. MUGILIDAE 355 ctd. A. Valamugil buchanani SSF 222.12. Al. PEM 2825 - L. 11.12 mm OD, 566 mm TL. B. V. robustus SSF 222.14. Bl. PEM 8239 (RUSI 37467) - L. 7.88 mm OD, 255 mm TL. C. V. seheli SSF 222.15. Cl. 1167H R. 7.0 mm OD, 225 mm TL. C2. 1166H - L. 8.04 mm OD, 264 mm TL. C3. 1055H - R. 9.46 mm OD, 364 mm TL SPHYRAENIDAE 356. D. Sphyraena acutipinnis SSF 224.1. Dl. PEM 7233 (RUSI 28456) - R. 3.5 mm OD, 91 mm TL. D2. PEM 3594 - R. 6.74 mm OD, 207 mm TL. D3. PEM 6700 (RUSI 28456) - R. 8.2 mm OD, 270 mm TL. E. S. chrysotaenia SSF 224.4. El. PEM 12448 - L. 7.7 mm OD, 262 mm TL. E2. PEM 12449 - L. 9.0 mm OD, 260 mm TL. F. S. flavicauda SSF 224.5. FI. PEM 14550 (RUSI 31426) - L. 6.7 mm OD, 295 mm TL. G. S. forsteri SSF 224.6. Gl. PEM 15773 - L. 10.0 mm OD, 442 mm TL. G2. PEM 15774 - L. 9.26 mm OD, 420 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 113. SPIIYRAENIDAE 356 ctd. A. Sphyraenajelb SSF 224.7. Al. PEM 0081 - L. 2.5 mm OD, c.70 mm TL. A2. PEM 0402 - L. 9.36 mm OD, 370 mm TL. A3. PEM 8142 - R. 15.3 mm OD, 1900 mm TL. B. S. putnamiae SSF 224.9. Bl. PEM 6652 - L. 8.7 mm OD, 253 mm TL. POLYNEMIDAE 357. C. Potydactylus plebeius SSF 223.2. Cl. 1377H - L. 3.9 mm OD, 167 mm TL. C2. 1378H - L. 4.0 mm OD, 180 mm TL. D. P. sextarius SSF 223.3. Dl. PEM 15281 (RUSI 36871) - R. 2.75 mm OD, 74 mm TL. 1)2. PEM 15279 (RUSI 36871) - R. 4.65 mm OD, 140 mm TL. D3. PEM 6618 (RUSI 28494) - L. 6.3 mm OD, 201 mm TL. E. Polydactylus sp. SSF 223.-. El. PEM 14531 - L. 7.8 mm OD, 357 mm TL. LABRIDAE 358. F. Anampses caeruleopunclatus SSF 220.1. FI. PEM 2909 - L. 1.4 mm OD, 76 mm TL. F2. PEM 6437 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 198 mm TL. G. A. tineatus SSF 220.2. Gl. PEM 14800 (RUSI 31369) - R. 1.5 mm OD, 77 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). vtj Plate 114. LABRIDAE 358 ctd. A. Anampses meleagrides SSF 220.3. Al. PEM 14801 (RUSI 31367) - R. 1.6 mm OD, 84 mm TL. A2. PEM 14802 (RUSI 31375) - L. 2.2 mm OD, 131 mm TL. A3. PEM 14803 (RUSI 31374) - R. 2.4 mm OD, 135 mm TL. B. Anchichoerops natalensis SSF 220.4. Bl. PEM 2168 - L. 6.68 mm OD, 575 mm TL. B2. PEM 8697 - L. 8.3 mm OD 557 mm TL. C. Bodianus anthioides SSF 220.5. Cl. PEM 8830 (RUSI 37439) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 114 mm TL. D. B. bilunulatus SSF 220.7. Dl. PEM 0029 - L. 5.22 mm OD. D2. PEM 8542 (RUSI 37482) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 248 mm TL. D3. PEM 8535 (RUSI 34154) - R. 6.3 mm OD, 255 mm TL. E. B. diana SSF 220.8. El. PEM 4403 - R. 3.8 mm OD, 157 mm TL. E2. PEM 8792 (RUSI 37427) - L. 4.7 mm OD, 185 mm TL. F. B. perditio SSF 220.10. FI. PEM 9609 - R. 8.1 mm OD, 483 mm TL. F2. PEM 9624 - L. 8.6 mm OD, 490 mm TL. G. Cheilinus digrammus SSF 220.13. Gl. PEM 15696 (RUSI 42676) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 234 mm TL. G2. 1033H - L. 5.18 mm OD, 239 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 115. LABRIDAE 358 ctd. A. Cheilinus undulaius SSF 220.16. Al. PEM 8499 - R. 12.1 mm OD, 1370 mm TL. B. Cheilio inermis SSF 220.17. Bl. PEM 15421 (RUS1 40581) - R. 3.1 mm OD, 195 mm TL. B2. 1220H - R. 3.15 mm OD, 250 mm TL. B3. PEM 15420 (RUSI 40581) - L. 3.4 mm OD, 220 mm TL. B4. 1047H - R. 5.64 mm OD, 430 mm TL. C. Coris aygula SSF 220.20. Cl. PEM 0048 - L. 1.8 mm OD. C2. PEM 8665 (RUSI 37452) - L. 2.2 mm OD, 113 mm TL. C3. PEM 15566 (RUSI 42762) - L. 4.35 mm OD, 395 mm TL. I). C. caudimacula SSF 220.21. Dl. PEM 2910 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 73 mm TL. D2. PEM 14798 (RUSI 31386) - R. 2.3 mm OD, 131 mm TL. E. C. gaimard africana SSF 220.23. El. 0400H - L. 1.5 mm OD, 66 mm TL. E2. 0401 H - R. LSI mm OD, 82 mm TL. F. Cymolutes praetextatus SSF 220.24. FI. PEM 15417 (RUSI 40580) - R. 2.75 mm OD, 137 mm TL. F2. PEM 15419 (RUSI 40580) - L. 3.65 mm OD, 160 mm TL. G. Epibulus insidiator SSF 220.26. Gl. PEM 15386 (RUSI 40606) - R. 6.0 mm OD, 270 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ) or 0.5 mm ( | — | ). Plate 116. LABRIDAE 358 ctd. A. Gomphosus caeruleus SSF 220.27. Al. 1215H - L. 2.35 mm OD, 126 mm TL. A2. PEM 0449 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 155 mm TL. B. Halichoeres cosmetus SSF 220.28. Bl. PEM 14233 (RUSI 30626) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 89 mm TL. B2. PEM 15451 (RUSI 40557) - R. 2.25 mm OD, 114 mm TL. C. H. hortulanus SSF 220.30. Cl. PEM 14804 (RUSI 31370) - L. 1.9 mm OD, 81 mm TL. C2. PEM 14797 (RUSI 31389) - L. 3.1 mm OD, 172 mm TL. C3. PEM 8784 - L. 3.4 mm OD, 217 mm TL. D. Hemigymnus fasciatus SSF 220.36. Dl. 1053H - R. 4.75 mm OD, 370 mm TL. E. Hologymnosus doliatus SSF 220.38. El. PEM 6436 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 203 mm TL. E2. PEM 5963 - R. 4.3 mm OD, 329 mm TL. E3. PEM 14533 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 350 mm TL. F. Labroides dimidiatus SSF 220.41. FI. PEM 8447 (RUSI 28498) - L. 1.3 mm OD, 46 mm TL. F2. PEM 2808 - L. 1.65 mm OD, 77 mm TL. G. Pseudocheilinus hexataenia SSF 220.48. Gl. PEM 15786 - L. 1.95 mm OD, 58 mm TL. G2. PEM 14224 (RUSI 30587) - L. 2.9 mm OD, 63 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ) or 0.1 mm (■ — «). Plate 117. LABRIDAE 358 ctd. A. Pteragogus flagellifer SSF 220.52. Al. PEM 15454 (RUSI 40571) - L. 1.7 mm OD, 72 mm TL. B. P. pelycus SSF 220.53. Bl. PEM 15455 (RUSI 40572) - L. 2.45 mm OD, 98 mm TL. C. Slethojulis alboviltata SSF 220.55. Cl. PEM 15428 (RUSI 40583) - R. 1.7 mm OD, 102 mm TL. C2. PEM 15426 (RUSI 40583) - L. 2.5 mm OD, 113 mm TL. D. S. inlerrupla SSF 220.56. Dl. PEM 10342 - R. 0.9 mm OD, 39 mm TL. D2. PEM 10453 - R. 1.3 mm OD, 70 mm TL. 1)3. PEM 10451 - L. 1.7 mm OD, 97 mm TL. D4. PEM 10338 - L. 1.8 mm OD, 98 mm TL. E. S. strigiventer SSF 220.57. El. PEM 4406 - L. 1 .95 mm OD, 70 mm TL. F. Thalassoma amhlycephalum SSF 220.58. FI. PEM 14246 (RUSI 30615) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 62 mm TL. G. T. hebraicum SSF 220.61. Gl. PEM 5992 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 147 mm FL. G2. PEM 8156 (RUSI 34142) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 163 mm FL. G3. PEM 8213 (RUSI 34153) - L. 4.3 mm OD, 189 mm FL. H. T. lunare SSF 220.62. HI. PEM 001 1 - L. 2.55 mm OD. 112. PEM 8291 (RUSI 34149) - R. 3.4 mm OD, 207 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ) or 0.5 mm ( H )■ Plate 118. LABRIDAE 358 ctd. A. Thalassorna purpureum SSF 220.63. Al. PEM 0448 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 115 mm TL. A2. PEM 8668 (RUSI 37456) - R. 2.5 mm OD, 160 mm TL. A3. PEM 9603 - L. 3.7 mm OD, 343 mm TL. B. T. trilobatum SSF 220.65. Bl. PEM 0446 - R. 2.6 mm OD, 165 mm TL. C. Xyrichtys pavo SSF 220.67. Cl. PEM 6476 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 103 mm TL. C2. PEM 6475 - R. 3.7 mm OD, 173 mm TL. SCAR I DAE 360. D. Calotomus spinidens SSF 221.2. Dl. PEM 15412 (RUSI 40578) - L. 2.8 mm OD, 123 mm TL. D2. PEM 15436 (RUSI 40578) - R. 3.1 mm OD, 115 mm TL. D3. PEM 15411 (RUSI 40579) - R. 3.3 mm OD, 124 mm TL. E. Leptoscarus vaigiensis SSF 221.3. El. PEM 15442 (RUSI 40560) - L. 2.85 mm OD, 109 mm TL. E2. PEM 15423 (RUSI 40582) - L. 3.45 mm OD, 169 mm TL. F. Hipposcarus harid SSF 221.5. FI. 1052H - L. 6.08 mm OD, 325 mm TL. F2. PEM 15383 (RUSI 40599) - L. 7.08 mm OD, 424 mm TL. G. Scarus cyanescens SSF 221.8. Gl. PEM 15405 (RUSI 40603) - L. 6.2 mm OD, 312 mm TL. G2. PEM 15404 (RUSI 40603) - R. 7.0 mm OD, 364 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 119. SCARIDAE 360 ctd. A. Scarus ghobban SSF 221.11. Al. PEM 15741 (RUSI 42706) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 210 mm TL. A2. PEM 15740 (RUSI 42706) - L. 4.45 mm OD, 245 mm TL. A3. PEM 5922 - R. 5.2 mm OD, c.430 mm TL. B. S. niger SSF 221.13. Bl. 1019H - R. 3.35 mm OD, 157 mm TL. B2. PEM 15382 (RUSI 40605) - L. 7.36 mm OD, 286 mm TL. C. S. psittacus SSF 221.14. Cl. PEM 14558 (RUSI 31450) - L. 4.6 mm OD, 190 mm TL. C2. PEM 15398 (RUSI 40590) - L. 5.68 mm OD, 255 mm TL. C3. PEM 15398 - R. D. S. rubroviolaceus SSF 221.15. Dl. PEM 15485 (RUSI 40618) - R. 5.9 mm OD, 473 mm TL. E. Scarus scaber SSF 221.17. El. PEM 14559 (RUSI 31430) - L. 5.3 mm OD, 235 mm TL. F. S. sordidus SSF 221.18. FI. 0985H - R. 5.64 mm OD, 275 mm TL. ZOARCIDAE 362. G. Lycodes agulhensis SSF 94.1. Gl. PEM 13966 (SAM 31620) - R. 5.2 mm OD, 282 mm TL. G2. PEM 14512 (RUSI 31400) - L. 5.4 mm OD, 273 mm TL. G3. PEM 14459 (RUSI 31460) - L. 6.0 mm OD, 287 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 120. ZOARCIDAE 362 ctd. A. Melanostigma gelatinosum SSF 94.3. Al. PEM 13345 - L. 1.0 mm OD, 122 mm TL. B. Pachycara crassiceps SSF 94.-. Bl. PEM 14613 (SAM 32191) - L. 3.6 mm OD, 376 mm TL. B2. PEM 13784 (SAM 31618) - R. 3.9 mm OD, 412 mm TL. OPISTOGNATH1DAE 375. C. Opistognathus muscatensis SSF 225.2. Cl. PEM 5666 - L. 7.1 mm OD, 330 mm TL. C2. PEM 8593 - R. 8.2 mm OD, 370 mm TL. CONGROGADIDAE 376. D. Halidesmus scapularis SSF 227.1. Dl. PEM 10386- R. 1.6 mm OD, 93 mm TL. D2. PEM 5227 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 125 mm TL. CHIASMODONTIDAE 377. E. Kali macrodon SSF 228.6. El. PEM 13612 - L. 5.2 mm OD, 170 mm TL. CHAMPSODONTIDAE 378. F. Champsodon capensis SSF 229.1. FI. PEM 7164 - R. 1.5 mm OD, 57 mm TL. F2. PEM 12568 (RUSI 28461) - L. 2.2 mm OD, 106 mm TL. F3. PEM 13030 - L. 2.8 mm OD, 122 mm TL. URANOSCOPIDAE 383. G. Uranoscopus archionema SSF 230.2. Gl. PEM 12910 (RUSI 28460) - R. 8.8 mm OD, 171 mm TL. G2. PEM 12970 - R. 11.56 mm OD, 295 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 121. PERCOPHIDAE 387. A. Bembrops platyrhynchus SSF 233.1. Al. PEM 13050 (RUSI 28459) - R. 6.1 mm OD, 185 mm TL. B. Bembrops sp. SSF 233.-. Bl. PEM 7772 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 114 mm TL. B2. PEM 7773 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 129 mm TL. MUGIEOIDIDAE 388. C. Parapercis maritzi SSF 234.2. Cl. PEM 14999 (RUSI 37319) - L. 5.6 mm OD, 148 mm TL. C2. PEM 15001 (SAM 32442) - L. 6.1 mm OD, 164 mm TL. C3. PEM 14994 (BPBM 34911) - R. 6.3 mm OD, 192 mm TL. D. P. punctulala SSF 234.4. Dl. PEM 4620 - R. 3.05 mm OD, 93 mm TL. E. P. robinsoni SSF 234.5. El. PEM 2042 - R. 5.18 mm OD, 219 mm TL. E2. PEM 0033 - R. 5.96 mm OD. TRIPTERYGIIDAE 390. F. Cremnochorites capensis SSF 236.1. FI. PEM 6056 (RUSI 17134) - R. 1.5 mm OD, 35 mm TL. F2. PEM 6055 (RUSI 17134) - L. 2.1 mm OD, 51 mm TL. F3. PEM 6054 (RUSI 17134) - L. 2.9 mm OD, 73 mm TL. G. Helcogramma obtusirostre SSF 236.8. Gl. PEM 2919 - L. 1.05 mm OD, 25 mm TL. G2. PEM 2684 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 36 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 122. CLINIDAE 393. A. Blennioclinus brachycephalus SSF 237.1. Al. PEM 10393 - R. 0.8 mm OD, 50 mm TL. A2. PEM 10299 - R. 0.9 mm OD, 72 mm TL. A3. PEM 6024 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 97 mm TL. B. B. Stella SSF 237.2. Bl. PEM 5509 - L. 0.75 mm OD, 45 mm TL. C. Blennophis anguillaris SSF 237.3. Cl. PEM 9982 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 118 mm TL. D. B. striatus SSF 237.4. Dl. PEM 5178 (RUSI 11948)- L. 1.15 mm OD, 54 mm TL. D2. PEM 10072- L. 2.7 mm OD, 97 mm TL. D3. PEM 10759 - L. 3.2 mm OD, 146mmTL. E. Cirrhibarbis capensis SSF 237.7. El. PEM 10268 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 61 mm TL. E2. PEM 10754 - R. 1.9 mm OD, 87 mm TL. E3. PEM 10266 - L. 2.5 mm OD, 124 mm TL. E4. PEM 2534 - L. 2.95 mm OD, 219 mm TL. F. Climacoporus navalis SSF 237.8. FI. PEM 10462 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 70 mm TL. F2. PEM 10460 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 57 mm TL. G. Clinoporus biporosus SSF 237.9. Gl. PEM 5357 - R. 0.7 mm OD, 41 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' '). Plate 123. CLINIDAE 393 ctd. A. Clinus berrisfordi SSF 237.12. Al. PEM 2293 - R. 1.9 mm OD, 108 mm TL. A2. PEM 10906 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B. C. cottoides SSF 237.14. Bl. PEM 5533 - L. 1.23 mm OD, 48 mm TL. B2. PEM 10471 - R. 2.2 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B3. PEM 5295 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 105 mm TL. C. C. helenae SSF 237.15. Cl. PEM 14823 - L. 0.8 mm OD, 27 mm TL. D. C. robustus SSF 237.19. Dl. PEM 10896 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 150 mm TL. D2. PEM 0646 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 285 mm TL. D3. PEM 10894 - L. 3.8 mm OD, 332 mm TL. E. C. superciliosus SSF 237.22. El. PEM 5285 - L. 1.3 mm OD, 62 mm TL. E2. PEM 10098 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 107 mm TL. E3. PEM 3880 (RUS1 11955) - R. 2.35 mm OD, 132 mm TL. E4. PEM 5291 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 185 mm TL. F. C. taurus SSF 237.23. FI. PEM 10023 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 60 mm TL. F2. PEM 10017 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 122 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm ( — ). Plate 124. CLIN1DAE 393 ctd. A. Clinus venustris SSF 237.24. Al. PEM 6047 (RUSI 17133) - R. 1.5 mm OD, 80 mm TL. A2. PEM 9980 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 78 mm TL. A3. PEM 6045 (RUSI 17133) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B. Fucomimus mus SSF 237.26. Bl. PEM 5506 - L. 0.8 mm OD, 72 mm TL. B2. PEM 5505 - L. 0.93 mm OD, 84 mm TL. C. Muraenoclinus dorsalis SSF 231.21. Cl. PEM 2563 - L. 0.6 mm OD, 38 mm TL. C2. PEM 5321 - L. 0.75 mm OD, 41 mm TL. D. Pavoclinus graminis SSF 237.28. Dl. PEM 5495 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 83 mm TL. D2. PEM 9963 - R. 1.2 mm OD, 73 mm TL. D3. PEM 10745 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 120 mm TL. E. P. laurentii SSF 237.30. El. PEM 4106 - R. 0.7 mm OD, 41 mm TL. F. P. mentalis SSF 237.32. FI. PEM 0367 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 275 mm TL. G. P. pavo SSF 237.34. Gl. PEM 6050 (RUSI 17129) - L. 0.7 mm OD, 44 mm TL. G2. PEM 9897 - R. 0.9 mm OD, 72 mm TL. G3. PEM 9894 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 68 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' — '). Plate 125. CL1NIDAE 393 ctd. A. Pavoclinus profundus SSF 237.35. Al. PEM 6026 - R. 0.6 mm OD, 48 mm TL. A2. PEM 5358 - R. 1.1 mm OD, 52 mm TL. A3. PEM 6025 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B. Xenopoclinus leprosus SSF 237.38. Bl. PEM 5359 - R. 0.95 mm OD, 60 mm TL. B2. PEM 5225 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 58 mm TL. BLENNIIDAE 395. C. Antennablennius australis SSF 235.2. Cl. 0785H - L. 1.0 mm OD, 53 mm TL. D. Chalaroderma ocellata SSF 235.7. Dl. PEM 5644 - L. 1.0 mm OD, 41 mm TL. D2. PEM 6044 - R. 1.8 mm OD, 88 mm TL. E. Cirripectes castaneus SSF 235.9. El. 0481H - R. 1.1 mm OD, 53 mm TL. E2. 0480H - R. 1.2 mm OD, 70 mm TL. F. Ecsenius midas SSF 235.10. FI. 0759H - L. 1.55 mm OD, 89 mm TL. G. Exallias brevis SSF 235.14. Cl. PEM 15655 - L. 1.65 mm OD, 64 mm TL. G2. PEM 15654 - R. 2.05 mm OD, 95 mm TL. II. Istiblennius dussumieri SSF 235.17 - III. 0478H - L. 1.3 mm OD, 107 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (■ — i). Plate 126. BLENNIIDAE 395 ctd. A. Isliblennius edentulus SSF 235.18. Al. 0639H - R. 1.8 mm OD, 125 mm TL. B. Omobranchus bandilus SSF 235.25. Bl. 0237H - L. 0.8 mm OD, 75 mm TL. C. O. woodi SSF 235.30. Cl. PEM 1882 (RUSI 9028) - L. 0.75 mm OD, 75 mm TL. C2. PEM 1885 (RUSI 9029) - L. 1.05 mm OD, 57 mm TL. D. Parablennius cornutus SSF 235.31. Dl. PEM 9998 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 47 mm TL. D2. PEM 9996 - R. 1.6 mm OD, 82 mm TL. E. P. pilicornis SSF 235.33. El. PEM 1105 -L. 1.45 mm OD, 57 mm TL. E2. PEM 1104-R. 1.5 mm OD, 74 mm TL. E3. PEM 1103 - R. 1.85 mm OD, 104 mm TL. F. Pereulixia kosiensis SSF 235.34. FI. 0924H - L. 1.45 mm OD, 65 mm TL. F2. PEM 2681 - R. 1.85 mm OD. F3. 0791H - R. 2.5 mm OD, 127 mm TL. G. Plagioiremus tapeinosoma SSF 235.38. Gl. PEM 2621 - R. 0.55 mm OD, 48 mm TL. G2. 0704H - R. 0.85 mm OD, 64 mm TL. G3. 0460H - R. 0.95 mm OD, 105 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' ')• Plate 127. BLENN1IDAE 395 ctd. A. Scartella emarginata SSF 235.40. Al. PEM 1 102 - L. 0.95 mm OD, 55 mm TL. A2. PEM 1098 - L. 1.25 mm OD, 62 mm TL. A3. PEM 1101 - R. 1.38 mm OD, 71 mm TL. B. Xiphasia setifer SSF 235.42. Bl. PEM 8294 - L. 0.55 mm OD, 255 mm TL. B2. PEM 0475 (RUSI 4413) - L. 0.7 mm OD, 315 mm TL. B3. PEM 14655 - L. 1.0 mm OD, 455 mm TL. AMMODYTIDAE 398. C. Gymnammodytes capensis SSF 238.2. Cl. PEM 0197 - R. 1.55 mm OD, 67 mm TL. CALLIONYMIDAE 399. D. Callionymus filamenlosus SSF 239.1. Dl. PEM 15443 (RUSI 40561) - R. 2.0 mm OD, 91 mm TL. E. Paraccillionymus costatus SSF 239.6. El. PEM 7326 - R. 1.5 mm OD, 44 mm TL. E2. PEM 3190 (RUSI 12175) - L. 1 .75 mm OD, 87 mm TL. E3. PEM 12547 (RUSI 28463) - L. 2.3 mm OD. F. Synchiropus monacanthus SSF 239.8. FI. PEM 13038 (RUSI 28462) - R. 3.2 mm OD, 109 mm TL. F2. PEM 13004 (RUSI 28462) - L. 4.7 mm OD, 205 mm TL. F3. PEM 13063 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 185 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (> — ■) or 1 mm ( — ). Plate 128. ELEOTRI DI DAE 402. A. Eleotris fusca SSF 241.4. Al. PEM 0303 (RUSI 4337) - R. 3.9 mm OD, 153 mm TL. A2. PEM 15486 (RUSI 40625) - R. 4.75 mm OD, 200 mm TL. GOBIIDAE 403. B. Caffrogobius agulhensis SSF 240.19. Bl. PEM 4691 - R. 1.35 mm OD, 37 mm TL. B2. PEM 6063 - R. 1.7 mm OD, 52 mm TL. B3. PEM 6061 - L. 2.2 mm OD, 68 mm TL. C. C. coffer SSF 240.20. Cl. PEM 5331 - R. 2.4 mm OD, 75 mm TL. C2. PEM 5294 - R. 2.7 mm OD, 86 mm TL. D. C. multi- fasciatus SSF 240.21. Dl. 1418H - R. 1.5 mm OD, 40 mm TL. D2. 1417H - L. 2.35 mm OD, 58 mm TL. E. C. nudiceps SSF 240.23. El. PEM 4043 - L. 1.4 mm OD, 36 mm TL. E2. PEM 4062 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 95 mm TL. E3. PEM 0073 - L. 4.15 mm OD. F. C. saUanha SSF 240.24. FI. PEM 10468 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 75 mm TL. F2. PEM 10004 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 87 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (i — ■) or 1 mm ( — ). Plate 129. GOBIIDAE 403 ctd. A. Glossogobius callidus SSF 240.43. Al. 0793H - R. 2.75 mm OD, 96 mm TL. B. Gobiodon citrinus SSF 240.47. Bl. 1039H - R. 1.5 mm OD, 42 mm TL. C. lstigobius decoratus SSF 240.56. Cl. PEM 6742 (RUSI 28464) - R. 4.4 mm OD. 129 mm TL. D. I. ornatus SSF 240.57. Dl. PEM 4355 - L. 3.15 mm OD, 93 mm TL. E. Nemateleotris magnified SSF 240.64. El. PEM 2868 - L. 1.8 mm OD, 74 mm TL. F. Oxyurichthys papuensis SSF 240.71. FI. PEM 15446 (RUSI 40564) - L. 5.74 mm OD, 195 mm TL. G. Parachaeturichthys polynema SSF 240.73. Gl. PEM 0229 - R. 4.8 mm OD, 115 mm TL. II. PriolepLs cincta SSF 240.84. III. PEM 4356 - L. 1.95 mm OD, 49 mm TL. I. Psammogobius knysnaensis SSF 240.87. II. 141 1H - L. 1.65 mm OD, c.50 mm TL. 12. 0218H - R. 2.45 mm OD, 101 mm TL. J. Sujflogobius bibarbatus SSF 240.97. Jl. PEM 14679 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 72 mm TL. J2. PEM 7794 (RUSI 28466) - L. 2.8 mm OD, 102 mm TL. J3. PEM 10957 - L. 3.2 mm OD, 113 mm TL. J4. PEM 14674 - R. 4.2 mm OD, 159 mm TL. K. Yongeichthys nebulosus SSF 240. 107. K1 . PEM 15445 (RUSI 40563) - L. 5.12 mm OD, 107 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm (— ). Plate 130. ACANTHURIDAE 409. A. Acanthurus blochii SSF 243.1. Al. PEM 15406 (RUSI 40613) - R. 5.0 mm OD, 242 mm TL. B. A. dussumieri SSF 243.2. Bl. PEM 2668 - L. 5.32 mm OD, 260 mm TL. B2. PEM 5995 - R. 6.1 mm OD, 284 mm FL. B3. PEM 15407 (RUSI 40612) - R. 5.86 mm OD, 256 mm TL. C. A. leucosternon SSF 243.3. Cl. PEM 6985 - L. 3.3 mm OD, 93 mm TL. C2. PEM 6132 (RUSI 17178) - R. 3.5 mm OD, 118 mm TL. C3. PEM 6453 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 182 mm TL. D. A. lineatus SSF 243.4. Dl. PEM 0482 - R. 3.0 mm OD, 92 mm SL. D2. PEM 2669 - L. 4.05 mm OD, 200 mm TL. D3. PEM 0732 - L. 5.58 mm OD, 200 mm TL. D4. PEM 0731 - L. 6.34 mm OD, 300 mm TL. E. A. nigrofuscus SSF 243.7. El. PEM 2717 - R. 2.85 mm OD, 87 mm TL. E2. PEM 8328 (RUSI 37432) - L. 4.3 mm OD, 125 mm TL. E3. PEM 6689 (RUSI 28465) - L. 4.4 mm OD, 132 mm TL. F. A. tertnenti SSF 243.9. FI. PEM 2894 - L. 5.82 mm OD, 310 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 131. ACANTIIURIDAE 409 ctd. A. Acanihurus triostegus SSF 243.11. Al. PEM 5433 - R. 2.0 mm OD, 67 mm TL. A2. PEM 2836 - L. 3.35 mm OD, 161 mm TL. B. A. xanthopterus SSF 243.12. Bl. PEM 6648 (RUSI 28468) - R. 4.35 mm OD, 181 mm TL. B2. PEM 5997 - R. 5.1 mm OD, 178 mm TL. B3. PEM 14862 - L. 8.5 mm OD, 537 mm TL. C. Ctenochaetus striatus SSF 243.14. Cl. PEM 14829 (RUSI 37091) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 123 mm TL. C2. PEM 14267 - R. 4.4 mm OD, 147 mm TL. D. C strigosus SSF 243.15. Dl. PEM 14268 - R. 4.9 mm OD, 140 mm TL. D2. PEM 14563 (RUSI 31404) - L. 5.0 mm OD, 180 mm TL. E. Paracanthurus hepalus SSF 243.16. El. PEM 7696 (RUSI 28471) - L. 1.7 mm OD, 46 mm TL. E2. PEM 0485 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 90 mm SL. E3. PEM 6781 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 133 mm TL. F. Z. gemmatum SSF 243.17. FI. PEM 14806 - R. 4.8 mm OD, 176 mm TL. G. Zebrasoma scopas SSF 243.18. Gl. PEM 7698 (RUSI 28470) - L. 2.0 mm OD, 54 mm TL. G2. PEM 10625 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 175 mm TL. Scale bars 1 min ( — ). Plate 132. ACANTIIURIDAE 409 ctd. A . Zebrasoma veliferum SSF 243.19. Al. PEM 6460 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 135 mm TL. A2. PEM 15031 (RUSI 35590) - L. 4.1 mm OD, 194 mm TL. B. Naso annulatus SSF 243.20. Bl. PEM 0621 - L. c.5.0 mm OD, 490 mm TL. C. N. brevirostris SSF 243.22. Cl. PEM 14560 (RUSI 34099) - L. 4.7 mm OD, 300 mm TL. C2. PEM 15661 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 255 mm TL. D. N. tuberosus SSF 243.29. Dl. PEM 14535 - L. 4.9 mm OD, 331 mm TL. E. Zanclus canescens SSF 244.1. El. PEM 11302- L. 2.8 mm OD, 94 mm TL. E2. PEM 6761 - L. 3.9 mm OD, 204 mm TL. SIGANIDAE 410. F. Siganus argenteus SSF 245.-. FI. PEM 15394 (RUSI 40576) - R. 1.85 mm OD, 110 mm TL. G. S. stellatus SSF245.1. Gl. 1171H - R. 4.25 mm OD, 260 mm TL. H. S. sutor SSF 245.2. HI. PEM 0178 - L. 1.85 mm OD, 102mmTL. 112. PEM 14551 (RUSI 31449) - L. 3.2 mm OD, 192 mm TL. H3. PEM 0326 - R. 4.15 mm OD, 305 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 133. GEMPYLIDAE 412. A. Gempylus serpens SSF 247.2. Al. PEM 9639 (RUSI 37443) - L. 2.8 mm OD, 367 mm TL. A2. PEM 14332 - R. 3.6 mm OD, 470 mm TL. B. Neoepinnula orientalis SSF 247.4. Bl. PEM 14427 (RUSI 28473) - R. 4.3 mm OD, 127 mm TL. B2. PEM 12472 (RUSI 34080) - R. 5.4 mm OD, 170 mm TL. B3. PEM 13008 - R. 7.1 mm OD, 245 mm TL. C. Promelhichlhys prometheus SSF 247.-. Cl. PEM 15342 - L. 7.72 mm OD, 320 mm SL. C2. PEM 15340 - R. 7.96 mm OD, 330 mm SL. D. Rexea promelheoides SSF 247.6. Dl. PEM 13329 - L. 4.5 mm OD, 167 mm TL. D2. PEM 12768 (RUSI 28484) - L 5.5 mm OD, 210 mm TL. E. Thyrsites atun SSF 247.8. El. PEM 7376 (RUSI 34157) - R. 3.5 mm OD, 152 mm TL. E2. PEM 3589 - L. 6.04 mm OD, 330 mm TL. E3. PEM 1253 - L. 14.28 mm OD, 950 mm SL. F. Thyrsitoides marleyi SSF 247.9. FI. PEM 5065 - L. 5.64 mm OD, 205 mm TL. F2. PEM 14449 - R. 7.4 mm OD, 719 mm TL. F3. PEM 14868 (RUSI 35537) - R. 8.5 mm OD, 987 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 134. TRICHIURIDAE 413. A. Benthodesmus elongatus elongatus SSF 248.3. Al. PEM 5052 (RUSI 14050) - R. 3.45 mm OD. 400 mm TL. A2. PEM 14906 (RUSI 35573) - L. 4.5 mm OD, 650 mm TL. A3. PEM 13427 - L. 6.1 mm OD, 872 mm TL. B. Lepidopus caudatus SSF 248.4. Bl. PEM 7500 (RUSI 28472) - R. 2.3 mm OD, 227 mm TL. B2. PEM 12225 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 574 mm TL. B3. PEM 9588 - L. 6.0 mm OD, 835 mm TL. B4. PEM 3940 - R. 7.68 mm OD, 2630 mm TL. C. Trichiurus lepturus SSF 248.6. Cl. PEM 1707 - L. 2.35 mm OD, 246 mm TL. C2. PEM 11721 (RUSI 28492) - R. 4.1 mm OD, 482 mm TL. C3. PEM 12735 - L. 5.4 mm OD, 790 mm TL. C4. PEM 1708 - L. 7.06 mm OD, 748 mm TL. SCOMBRIDAE 414. D. Acanthocybium solandri SSF 249.1. Dl. PEM 1853 - L. 11.16 mm OD, 1216 mm FL. D2. PEM 6115 - L. 12.2 mm OD, 1590 mm FL. E. Euthynnus affinis SSF 249.4. El. PEM 15561 - R. 5.0 mm OD, 570 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). ~ • Plate 135. SCOMBRIDAE 414 ctd. A. Gymnosarda unicolor SSF 249.6. Al. PEM 14564 - R. 6.0 mm OD, 605 mm TL. B. Katsuwonis pelamis SSF 249.7. Bl. PEM 0805 - R. 4.75 mm OD, 600 mm TL. B2. PEM 0989 - R. 5.64 mm OD, 580 mm FL. B3. PEM 15680 - L. 6.18 mm OD, 620 mm FL. C. Rastrelliger kanagurta SSF 249.8. Cl. PEM 5976 - R. 4.3 mm OD, 224 mm FL. D. Sarda orienlalis SSF 249.9. Dl. PEM 15466 - L. 4.25 mm OD, 460 mm TL. D2. PEM 15465 - R. 5.26 mm OD, 432 mm TL. E. S. sarda SSF 249.10. El. PEM 0988 - L. 5.78 mm OD, 470 mm FL. E2. PEM 6496 - L. 6.7 mm OD, 560 mm TL. F. Scomber japonicus SSF 249.11. FI. PEM 7310 (RUSI 28482) - R. 2.4 mm OD, 137 mm TL. F2. PEM 7311 (RUSI 28482) - R. 2.8 mm OD, 163 mm TL. F3. PEM 9412 - L. 5.2 mm OD, 150 mm FL. F4. PEM 9406 - L. 6.0 mm OD, 395 mm TL. G. Scomheromorus commerson SSF 249.12. Gl. PEM 2697 - R. 12.38 mm OD. G2. PEM 2662 - R. 15.16 mm OD, 1074 mm FL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 136. SCOMBRIDAE 414 ctd. A. Scomberomorus plurilineatus SSF 249.13. Al. PEM 8143 - L. 12.3 mm OD, 855 mm TL. A2. PEM 0470 - L. 14.06 mm OD. B. Thunnus alalunga SSF 249.14. Bl. PEM 15467 - L. 12.58 mm OD. C. T. albacares SSF 249.15. Cl. PEM 7466 - L. 8.8 mmOD, 605 mm FL. C2. PEM 0858 - L. 11.12 mm OD, 1110 mm TL. D. T. maccoyii SSF 249.16. Dl. PEM 15065 - L. 6.8 mm OD, 400 mm FL. D2. PEM 15068 - R. 9.6 mm OD, 700 mm FL. D3. PEM 15064- R. 21.4 mm OD, 1860 mm FL. E. T. thynnus thynnus SSF 249.18. El. PEM 0981 - R. 9.64 mm OD. XIPHIIDAE 415. F. Xiphias gladius SSF 251.1. FI. PEM 1966 - R. c.2.1 mm OD, 3400 mm TL. F2. PEM 2087 - R. 2.9 mm OD. ISTIOPIIORIDAE 417. G. Makaira indica SSF 252.2. Gl. PEM 0726 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 3430 mm TL. NOMEIDAE 420. H. Ariomma indica SSF 255.1. HI. PEM 5108 - L. 1.55 mm OD, 51 mm TL. H2. PEM 4543 - R. 2.5 mm OD, 125 mm TL. H3. PEM 5107 - R. 4.0 mm OD, 77 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 137. NOMEIDAE 420 ctd. A. Cuhiceps baxteri SSF 255.3. Al. PEM 14975 (RUSI 35584) - R. 7.1 mm OD, 195 mm TL. B. C caeruleus SSF 255.4. Bl. PEM 13613 - R. 4.7 mm OD, 170 mm TL. B2. PEM 14156 (RUSI 28485) - R. 5.4 mm OD, 192 mm TL. C. C. capensis SSF 255.5. Cl. 1533H - L. 4.85 mm OD, 130 mm TL. C2. PEM 10362- R. c.21.2 mm OD, 515 mm TL. I). C. pauciradiatus SSF 255.6. 1)1. PEM 0948 - L. 5.72 mm OD, c.106 mm TL. E. Nomeus gronovii SSF 255.7 . El. PEM 3936 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 68 mm TL. F. Psenes whiteleggii SSF 255.12. FI. PEM 12794 (RUSI 28486) - L. 5.7 mm OD, 151 mm TL. F2. PEM 12898 (RUSI 28483) - R. 6.9 mm OD, 177 mm TL. TETRAGONURIDAE 422. G. Tetragonurus cuvieri SSF 256.2. Gl. PEM 14752 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 382 mm TL. G2. PEM 13295 - L. 4.4 mm OD, 475 mm TL. STROM ATE1 DAE 423. II. Centrolophus niger SSF 254.1. III. PEM 14200 - L. 17.7 mm OD, 447 mm TL. 112. PEM 14592 - R. 27.0 mm OD, 790 mm TL. 113. PEM 14591 - R. 32.5 mm OD, 980 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 138. STROMATEIDAE 423 ctd. A. Hyperoglyphe antarctica SSF 254.2. Al. PEM 7884 - L. 20.3 mm OD, 710 mm TL. A2. PEM 7883 - R. 28.7 mm OD, 1040 mm TL. B. H. moselii SSF 254.3. Bl. PEM 14759 - R. 8.5 mm OD, 343 mm TL. B2. PEM 14758 - L. 8.9 mm OD, 324 mm TL. B3. PEM 12138 - L. 11.1 mm OD. C. Schedophilus huttoni SSF 254.6. Cl. PEM 14600- L. 15.8 mm OD, 592 mm TL. C2. PEM 14603 - L. 16.8 mm OD, 771 mm TL. D. S. ovalis SSF 254.8. Dl. 1616H - R. 14.32 mm OD, 415 mm SL. D2. PEM 15487- L. 19.82 mm OD, 820 mm TL. E. Stromateus fiatola SSF 254.10. El. PEM 4275 - R. 3.16 mm OD, 105 mm TL. E2. PEM 4509 (RUSI 12812) - R. 4.59 mm OD, 167 mm TL. E3. PEM 4653 (RUSI 14953) - R. 7.19 mm OD, 252 mm TL. PSETTODIDAE 432. F. Psetlodes erumei SSF 257.1. FI. PEM 15475 (RUSI 40617) - R. 13.94 mm OD, 463 mm TL. F2. PEM 0225 - L. 16.44 mm OD, 410 mm TL. G. Psettodes sp. SSF 257.-. Gl. PEM 0273 - R. 16.38 mm OD, 540 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 139. CIT1IARIDAE 433. A. Citharoides macrolepis SSF 258.1. Al. PEM 12967 - L. 5.4 mm OD, 160 mm TL. A2. PEM 12967 - R. A3. PEM 12966 - L. 6.3 mm OD, 197 mm TL. A4. PEM 12966 - R. A5. PEM 12834 (RUSI 34159) - R. 6.3 mm OD, 198 mm TL. A6. PEM 12999 - L. 7.4 mm OD 230 mm TL. BOTHIDAE 434. B. Arnoglossus capensis SSF 259.1. Bl. PEM 14396 - L. 1.9 mm OD, 84 mm TL. B2. PEM 14396 - R. B3. PEM 15036 - L. 2.9 mm OD, 168 mm TL. B4. PEM 15036 - R. B5. PEM 11661 (RUSI 28487) - L. 2.9 mm OD, 172 mm TL. B6. PEM 11661-R. C. Both us mane us SSF 259.3. Cl. PEM 15641 - L. 2.35 mm OD, 400 mm TL. C2. PEM 14539 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 339 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 140. BOTHIDAE 434 ctd. A. Chascanopsetta sp. Kenya form SSF 259.-. Al. PEM 5038 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 276 mm TL. A2. PEM 5038 - R. A3. PEM 5037 - L. 3.85 mm OD, 303 mm TL. A4. PEM 5037 - R. B. Chascanopsetta sp. Natal and Mozambique form SSF 259.-. Bl. PEM 13037 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 180 mm TL. B2. PEM 13037- R. B3. PEM 13033 (RUSI 34089) - L. 1.3 mm OD, 170 mm TL. B4. PEM 13033 - R. B5. PEM 13034 (RUSI 34084) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 229 mm TL. B6. PEM 13034 - R. C. Chascanopsetta sp. Cape form SSF 259.-. Cl. PEM 14424 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 160 mm TL. C2. PEM 14424 - R. C3. PEM 14972 (RUSI 35521) - L. 1.4 mm OD, 157 mm TL. C4. PEM 14972 - R. Scale bars 1 mm (— ) or 0.5 mm ( H )• Plate 141. BOTIIIDAE 434 ctd. A. Laeops pectoralis SSF 259.13. Al. PEM 12833 (RUSI 28491) - L. 2.65 mm OD, 150 mm TL. A2. PEM 12833 - R. A3. PEM 13001 (RUSI 28491) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 167 mm TL. A4. PEM 13001 - R. A5. PEM 13040 (RUSI 28491) - L. 3.3 mm OD, 174 mm TL. A6. PEM 13040 - R. B. Pseudorhombus arsius SSF 259.17. Bl. PEM 0838 - L. 3.45 mm OD, 188 mm TL. B2. PEM 0838 - R. B3. PEM 0366 - L. 5.10 mm OD, 260 mm TL. B4. PEM 0366 - R. B5. PEM 1009 - L. 5.58 mm OD, 395 mm TL. B6. PEM 1009 - R. PLEURONECTIDAE 435 C. Paralichthodes algoensis -SSF 260.2. Cl. PEM 0365 - L. 2.15 mm OD, 140 mm TL. C2. PEM 0365 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 142. PLEURONECTIDAE 435 ctd. A. Poecilopsetta natalensis SSF 260.3. Al. PEM 13002 (RUSI 28478) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 153 mm TL. A2. PEM 13002 - R. A3. PEM 12984 (RUSI 28478) - L. 3.5 mm OD, 165 mm TL. A4. PEM 12984 - R. B. Samariscus triocellatus SSF 260.5. Bl. 0767H - L. 1.0 mm OD, 62 mm TL. B2. 0767H - R. CYNOGLOSSIDAE 436. C. Cynoglossus attenuatus SSF 261.2. Cl. PEM 15294 (RUSI 36879) - L. 3.45 mm OD, 215 mm TL. C2. PEM 15294 - R. C3. PEM 6676 - L. 3.5 mm OD, 252 mm TL. C4. PEM 6676 - R. C5. PEM 6675 - L. 4.0 mm OD, 252 mm TL. C6. PEM 6675 - R. C7. PEM 6678 (RUSI 34160) - L. 4.0 mm OD, 233 mm TL. C8. PEM 6678 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 143. CYNOGLOSSIDAE 436 ctd. A. Cynoglossus capensis SSF 261.3. Al. PEM 4318 - L. 2.1 mm OD, 72 mm TL. A2. PEM 4318 - R. A3. PEM 4552 - L. 3.13 mm OD. 139 mm TL. A4. PEM 4552 - R. A5. PEM 2585 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 188 mm TL. A6. PEM 2585 - R. A7. PEM 3352 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 206 mm TL. A8. PEM 3352 - R. B. Cynoglossus cf. capensis Mozambique form SSF 261.-. Bl. PEM 13039 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 162 mm TL. B2. PEM 13039 - R. B3. PEM 12886 - L. 4.2 mm OD, 182 mm TL. B4. PEM 12886 - R. C. C. marleyi SSF 261.8. Cl. PEM 12987 - L. 2.7 mm OD, 256 mm TL. C2. PEM 12987 - R. C3. PEM 12835 (RUSI 34159) - L. 2.7 mm OD, 198 mm TL. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 144. CYNOGLOSSIDAE 436 ctd. A. Cynoglossus marleyi SSF 261.8. Al. PEM 12934 - L. 3.1 mm OD, 282 mm TL. A2. PEM 12934 - R. B. C. zanzibarensis SSF 261.9. Bl. PEM 14431 (RUSI 34095) - L. 3.7 mm OD, 167 mm TL. B2. PEM 14431 - R. B3. PEM 15062 - L. 4.3 mm OD, 240 mm TL. B4. PEM 15062 - R. B5. PEM 15035 - L. 6.6 mm OD, 375 mm TL. B6. PEM 15035 - R. SOLEIDAE 437. C. Aesopia cornuta SSF 262.1. Cl. PEM 0453 - L. 2.4 mm OD, 135 mm TL. C2. PEM 0453 - R. D. Austroglossus microlepis SSF 262.2. Dl. PEM 12174 - L. 2.6 mm OD, 169 mm TL. D2. PEM 12174 - R. D3. PEM 12085 - L. 4.4 mm OD, 307 mm TL. D4. PEM 12085 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 145. SOLEIDAE 437 ctd. A. Austroglossus microlepis SSF 262.2. Al. PEM 12088 - L. 4.8 mm OD, 365 mm TL. A2. PEM 12088 - R. B. A. pectoralis SSF 262.3. Bl. PEM 4574 (RUSI 13264) - R. 2.2 mm OD, 130 mm TL. B2. PEM 12506 - L. 3.0 mm OD, 176 mm TL. B3. PEM 12506 - R. B4. PEM 12509 (RUSI 28519) - L. 3.0 mm OD, 184 mm TL. B5. PEM 12509 - R. B6. PEM 15037 - L. 4.6 mm OD, 335 mm TL. B7. PEM 15037 - R. C. Heleromycteris capensis SSF 262.5. Cl. PEM 2160 - L. 0.9 mm OD, 43 mm TL. C2. PEM 2160 - R. C3. PEM 4575 (RUSI 13272) - L. 1.8 mm OD, 92 mm TL. C4. PEM 4575 - R. C5. PEM 4019 - L 2.05 mm OD, 106 mm TL. C6. PEM 4019 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Ifc. A2 / r Plate 146. SOLEIDAE 437 ctd. A. Solea bleekeri SSF 262.12. Al. PEM 3740 - L. 1.6 mm OD, 78 mm TL. A2. PEM 3740 - R. A3. PEM 15055 (RUSI 35564) - L. 1.9 mm OD, 96 mm TL. A4. PEM 15055 - R. A5. PEM 15290 (RUSI 36873) - L. 2.05 mm OD, 103 mm TL. A6. PEM 15290 - R. A7. PEM 15054 (RUSI 35564) - L. 2.2 mm OD, 111 mm TL. A8. PEM 15054 - R. A9. PEM 12512 - L. 2.3 mm OD, 128 mm TL. A10. PEM 12512 - R. All. PEM 12513 - R. 2.8 mm OD, 125 mm TL. B. S. fiilvomarginata SSF 262.13. Bl. PEM 6183 - L. 4.35 mm OD, 265 mm TL. C. Synaplura marginata SSF 262.14. Cl. PEM 0285 - R. 3.4 mm OD, 290 mm TL. D. Synapturichlhys kleini SSF 262.15. Dl. PEM 2170 - L. 7.6 mm OD, 310 mm TL. D2. PEM 2170 - R. Scale bars 1 mm ( — ). Plate 147. TRIACANTHODIDAE 438. Macrorhamphosodes sp. SSF 265.-. Al. PEM 5059 - L. 1.45 mm OD, 107 mm SL. BALISTIDAE 440. B. Balislapus undulatus SSF 263.2. Bl. 1230H - L. 2.45 mm OD, 220 mm TL. C. Canlhidermis maculalus SSF 263.6. Cl. PEM 15441 (RUSI 40559) - R. 1.05 mm OD, 147 mm TL. D. Melichlhys indicus SSF 263.7. Dl. 0734H - R. 2.15 mm OD. E. Odonus niger SSF 263.10. El. 0733H - R. 2.75 mm OD, 33 mm TL. F. Rhinecanthus aculeatus SSF 263.13. FI. PEM 7705 (RUSI 28476) - L. 1.5 mm OD, 68 mm TL. G. Sufflamen chrysopterus SSF 263.16. Gl. 1390H - R. 1.85 mm OD, 138 mm TL. II. S. fraenalus SSF 263.17. III. 0952H - R. 1.6 mm OD, 189 mm TL. I. Aluterus monoceros SSF 264.1. II. PEM 14810- L. 1.1 mm OD, 453 mm TL. 12. PEM 15333 - R. 1.05 mm OD, 473 mm TL. 13. PEM 15332 (RUSI 36884) - R. 1.1 mm OD, 510 mm TL. 14. PEM 15331 (RUSI 36883) - L. 1.45 mm OD, 591 mm TL. J. Cantherhines pardalis SSF 264.6. Jl. 1008H - L. 1.45 mm OD, 179 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (< — >). Plate 148. MONACANTIIIDAE 440 ctd. A. Pervagor janthinosoma SSF 264.11. Al. 1009H - R. 0.85 mm OD, 74 mm TL. A2. 0721H - R. 1.2 mm OD, 89 mm TL. A3. PEM 7706 (RUSI 28480) - L. 1.7 mm OD, 100 mm TL. B. Thamnaconus fajardoi SSF 264.15. Bl. PEM 15007 (RUSI 35569) - L. 1.8 mm OD, 191 mm TL. C. T. modestoides SSF 264.16. Cl. PEM 15563 - R. 1.35 mm OD, 150 mm TL. OSTRAC1IDAE 441. D. Lactoria fornasini SSF 266.5. Dl. PEM 15396 (RUSI 40577) - L. 0.65 mm OD, 63 mm TL. E. Ostracion cubicus SSF 266.6. El. 1006H - R. 1.05 mm OD, 96 mm TL. TETRAODONTIDAE 443. F. Ambtyrhynchotes honckenii SSF 268.1. FI. 0597H - L. 1.05 mm OD, 120 mm TL. F2. PEM 15050 (RUSI 35568) - R. 1.3 mm OD, 181 mm TL. F3. PEM 15048 - R. 1.4 mm OD, 180 mm TL. F4. PEM 15049 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 157 mm TL. F5. PEM 15052 - R. 1.5 mm OD, 192 mm TL. G. Arothron hispidus SSF 268.2. Gl. PEM 14845 - R. 1.4 mm OD, 168 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' — >). Plate 149. TETRAODONTIDAE 443 ctd. A. Arothron stellatus SSF 268.8. Al. PEM 14844 - L. 2.0 mm OD, 355 mm TL. B. Canthigaster solandri SSF 268.15. Bl. 1282H - L. 1.1 mm OD, 108 mm TL. C. Lagocephalus Iguenlheri SSF 268.19. Cl. 1393H - L. 0.55 mm OD, 98 mm TL. C2. PEM 0438 - L. 1.1 mm OD, 245 mm TL. D. L. inerrnis SSF 268.20. Dl. 0035H - L. 0.9 mm OD, 142 mm TL. PL L. sceleratus SSF 268.23. El. 0034H - R. 1.10 mm OD, 135 mm TL. E2. PEM 15375 - L. 1.5 mm OD, 443 mm TL. E3. PEM 15375 - R. F. Sphoeroides pachygaster SSF 268.25. FI. PEM 15043 (RUSI 35577) - L. 0.8 mm OD, 171 mm TL. F2. PEM 15044 - L. 1.0 mm OD, 278 mm TL. F3. PEM 15058 - L. 1.0 mm OD, 302 mm TL. DIODONTIDAE 444 (I. Diodon hyslrix SSF 269.6. Gl. 0033H - L. 1.6 mm OD, 240 mm TL. Scale bars 0.1 mm (' — ')•