Synchiropus moyeri, a New Species of Dragonet (Callionymidae) from Miyake-jima, Japan

Abstract

Synchiropus moyeri sp.nov.is described on the basis of 24 specimens from Miyakejima, Izu Islands, Japan.The new species is morphologically very similar to Synchiropus ocellatus, a wide-ranging species which also occurs commonly at Miyake-jima.Synchiropus moyeri has a strong mate preference for conspecifics, suggesting a complete behavioral isolation.The new species is distinguished from S.ocellatus and compared with allied species.Ecological notes are included.