Taxonomic Review of the Rare Deep-sea Eelpout,Lycenchelys maculata (Pisces, Zoarcidae)

Abstract

Morphological characters and distribution of the rare deep-sea zoarcid fish, Lycenchelys maculata, are reviewed, including osteology and coloration. Eleven additional specimens document the species distribution in the Pacific Ocean from off Simushir Island (Kuril Islands) to off Kakegawa (Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan) at depths of 200–489 m. A photograph of a fresh specimen (32 cm TL) reported to be the species, published in 1984 and 1988, is not in part of the type specimens. Intraspecific variations are also reported for the color of tail and the pelvic fins. Diagnostic characters are revised and the taxonomic history and associated problems provided.