1a |
One eye on each side of the head. |
|
4 |
b |
Both eyes on the same side of the head. |
|
2 |
|
2a |
|
3 |
b |
Pectoral fins absent. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Soleidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 177)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_177 Soleidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Soleidae |
|
|
|
3a |
Eyes on the right side of the fish's head. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Samaridae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 20)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_20 Samaridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Samaridae |
|
|
b |
Eyes on the left side of the fish's head. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Bothidae; female left, male right (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 21)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_21 Bothidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Bothidae |
|
|
|
4a |
Either the gill openings are in front of the pectoral bases or the pectoral fins are absent. |
|
5 |
b |
Gill openings behind the level of the pectoral bases. Two short, blunt, stout dorsal spines on the head. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Antennariidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 23)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_23 Antennariidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Antennariidae |
|
|
|
5a |
Pelvic fins present, though sometimes rudimentary or highly modified. |
|
6 |
b |
Pelvic fins totally absent. |
|
19 |
|
6a |
The 2 pelvic fins separate from one another. |
|
7 |
b |
The innermost rays of the 2 pelvic fins attached to one another for their full length by membrane. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Gobiidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 65)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_65 Gobiidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Gobiidae (in part) |
|
|
|
7a |
Pelvic fins with 5 or fewer soft rays. |
|
8 |
b |
Pelvic fins with more than 5 soft rays. |
|
9 |
|
8a |
Dorsal fin composed of 2 or more completely separate parts. |
|
29 |
b |
A single dorsal fin, which may be more or less subdivided, but if so the sections are connected by at least a basal membrane. |
|
41 |
|
9a |
Anal fin with 4 spines. Dorsal fin with 10 or more spines, the base of the spinous portion longer than the base of the soft portion. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Holocentridae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 59)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_59 Holocentridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Holocentridae |
|
|
b |
No stiff, sharp spines at the front of the anal fin. |
|
10 |
|
10a |
Adipose fin present. Mouth extending well beyond the posterior border of the eye. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Synodontidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 32)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_32 Synodontidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Synodontidae |
|
|
b |
|
11 |
|
11a |
Snout elongate, tubular, with a small mouth at the tip. |
|
12 |
b |
Snout not in the form of an elongate tube with a small mouth at its tip. |
|
13 |
|
12a |
Soft dorsal preceded by a series of small, free spines; chin with a barbel; caudal without a median filament. Body compressed. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Aulostomidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 41)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_41 Aulostomidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Aulostomidae |
|
|
b |
No free spines along back; no barbel on chin; caudal with a median filament. Body depressed. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Fistulariidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 42)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_42 Fistulariidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Fistulariidae |
|
|
|
13a |
Lateral line running very low along sides, commencing below the base of the pectoral fin. |
|
14 |
b |
Lateral line, if present, running along the middle of the sides or above. |
|
15 |
|
14a |
Both upper and lower jaw elongate, forming long pointed beak. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Belonidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 47)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_47 Belonidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Belonidae |
|
|
b |
Only the lower jaw elongate and pointed. Upper jaw short and triangular. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Hemiramphidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 48)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_48 Hemiramphidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Hemiramphidae |
|
|
|
15a |
Lateral line well developed. |
|
16 |
b |
|
18 |
|
16a |
Mouth small, not extending behind the eye. |
|
17 |
b |
Mouth large, extending behind the eye. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Elopidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 51)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_51 Elopidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Elopidae |
|
|
|
17a |
Mouth inferior to the overhanging snout. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Albulidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 52)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_52 Albulidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Albulidae |
|
|
b |
Mouth terminal. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Chanidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 53)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_53 Chanidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Chanidae |
|
|
|
18a |
Mouth inferior to the overhanging snout. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Engraulidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 54)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_54 Engraulidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Engraulidae |
|
|
b |
Mouth terminal. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Clupeidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 55)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_55 Clupeidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Clupeidae |
|
|
|
19a |
No separate caudal fin at the end of a constricted caudal peduncle. |
|
20 |
b |
A separate caudal fin at the end of a constricted caudal peduncle as is usual in fishes. |
|
23 |
|
20a |
Body enclosed in bony plates. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Syngnathidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 125)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_125 Syngnathidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Syngnathidae (in part) |
|
|
b |
Body not enclosed in bony plates. |
|
21 |
|
21a |
Dorsal and anal fins continuous around tip of tail. |
|
22 |
b |
Body terminating posteriorly in sharp, hard, finless point. Numerous branchiostegal rays overlap ventrally. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Ophichthidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 136)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_136 Ophichthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Ophichthidae |
|
|
|
22a |
Pectoral fin well developed. Lower jaw on either side with a reverted lip that has a free edge below. No fang like teeth in mouth. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Congridae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 131)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_131 Congridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Congridae |
|
|
b |
Pectoral fin absent. Lower jaw on either side without a reverted lip with a free edge below. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Muraenidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 135)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_135 Muraenidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Muraenidae |
|
|
|
23a |
Body contained in a series of bony rings. Snout tubular with a small mouth at tip; size small, to about 20 cm. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Syngnathidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 138)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_138 Syngnathidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Syngnathidae (in part) |
|
|
b |
Body not contained in a series of bony rings. |
|
24 |
|
24a |
Gill covers broadly united to the isthmus, restricting the gill openings to short slits. |
|
25 |
b |
Gill covers completely free from the isthmus. Small, slender-bodied. Long dorsal fin with 40-69 soft rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Ammodytidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 146)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_146 Ammodytidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Ammodytidae |
|
|
|
25a |
A single dorsal fin composed entirely of soft rays. |
|
27 |
b |
Two, well separated dorsal fins, the first composed of one or more strong, rough spines. |
|
26 |
|
26a |
Sides somewhat prickly or furry to the touch, the individual scales not visible; anterior dorsal spine inserted over eye. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Monacanthidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 139)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_139 Monacanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Monacanthidae |
|
|
b |
Sides covered by hard, plate-like scales; anterior dorsal spine inserted slightly behind eye. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Balistidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 140)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_140 Balistidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Balistidae |
|
|
|
27a |
Head and body enclosed in a bony box; abdomen not inflatable. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Ostraciidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 141)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_141 Ostraciidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Ostraciidae |
|
|
b |
Body not enclosed in a bony box; abdomen inflatable. |
|
28 |
|
28a |
Body covered with prominent sharp spines. Teeth fused to beak-like dental plates without a median suture. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Diodontidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 142)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_142 Diodontidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Diodontidae |
|
|
b |
Body not covered with prominent sharp spines. Teeth fused to beak-like dental plates with a median suture. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Tertaodontidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 143)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_143 Tetraodontidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Tetraodontidae |
|
|
|
29a |
First dorsal consisting of a single long ray originating on the top of head. Pectorals expanded, winglike. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Dactylopteridae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 63)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_63 Dactylopteridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Dactylopteridae |
|
|
b |
First dorsal not composed of a single long ray originating on the top of the head. |
|
30 |
|
30a |
Pectoral fin with a separate section below made up of 6 free rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Polynemidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 70)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_70 Polynemidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Polynemidae |
|
|
b |
Pectoral fin without a separate section below made up of free rays. |
|
31 |
|
31a |
Three dorsal fins, the first 2 joined at the base. Pelvics with fewer than 5 rays. Size small, less than 5 cm. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Tripterygiidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 75)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_75 Tripterygiidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Tripterygiidae |
|
|
b |
|
32 |
|
32a |
Separate first dorsal fin composed of 2 rays on the top of the head. Lateral line with a sharp downward jog under the soft dorsal. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Labridae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 76)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_76 Labridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Labridae (in part) |
|
|
b |
Separate first dorsal fin composed of more than 2 rays. |
|
33 |
|
33a |
|
34 |
b |
Body completely naked. Enlarged preopercular spine. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Callionymidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 77)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_77 Callionymidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Callionymidae |
|
|
|
34a |
A pair of large barbels under chin. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Mullidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 79)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_79 Mullidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Mullidae |
|
|
b |
No pair of barbels on chin. |
|
35 |
|
35a |
Distance between the dorsal fins less than the length of the first dorsal fin base. |
|
38 |
b |
Distance between the dorsal fins greater than the length of the first dorsal base. Pelvic fins inserted behind level of the pectoral bases. |
|
36 |
|
36a |
Lateral line present; teeth large; scales small. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Sphyraenidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 81)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_81 Sphyraenidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Sphyraenidae |
|
|
b |
Lateral line absent; teeth small; scales moderate or large. |
|
37 |
|
37a |
Anal fin with about 17 soft rays; sides with a silvery lateral stripe in life. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Atherinidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 82)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_82 Atherinidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Atherinidae |
|
|
b |
Anal fin with 10 or fewer soft rays; sides without silvery lateral stripe. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Mugilidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 83)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_83 Mugilidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Mugilidae |
|
|
|
38a |
Soft dorsal and anal relatively long, each of 15 or more rays. Preopercle without spines. Posterior portion of lateral line often covered in scutes. Anal fin usually preceded by a pair of short, sharp, spines that are free from the soft portion of the fin. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Carangidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 89)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_89 Carangidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Carangidae |
|
|
b |
Soft dorsal and anal relatively short, each of 12 or fewer soft rays. |
|
39 |
|
39a |
Maxillary exposed and prominent; lateral line usually present, at least forward. Anal fin with 2 spines and 8 soft rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Apogonidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 84)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_84 Apogonidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Apogonidae |
|
|
b |
Maxillary concealed; lateral line absent. |
|
40 |
|
40a |
Lower jaw heavy and protruding; mouth almost vertical. Long anal fin with 9 or more soft rays. Soft dorsal with 9 -39 soft rays. |
Ptereleotridae |
|
|
b |
Lower jaw not heavy, protruding; mouth not almost vertical. Anal fin with 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays. Dorsal with 7 to 11 soft rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Gobiidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 85)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_85 Gobiidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Gobiidae (in part) |
|
|
|
41a |
Pelvic fins minute, the longest ray less than an eye diameter. Body covered with papillae giving it a furry appearance. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Caracanthidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 90)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_90 Caracanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Caracanthidae |
|
|
b |
Pelvic fins normal to filamentous, but the longest ray always more than an eye diameter in length. Body without papillae. |
|
42 |
|
42a |
Body enclosed in bony plates; snout with a bony, knoblike projection. Size small, to about 12 cm. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Pegasidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 92)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_92 Pegasidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Pegasidae |
|
|
b |
Body not enclosed in bony plates; snout without a bony, knoblike projection. |
|
43 |
|
43a |
Body completely scaleless. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Blenniidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 93)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_93 Blenniidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Blenniidae |
|
|
b |
Body scaled, at least along the lateral line. |
|
44 |
|
44a |
Pelvic fins reduced to 1 or 2 filaments on each side. Dorsal and anal fins more or less confluent with the caudal fin. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Ophidiidae (Gosline and Brock, 1960, fig. 95)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_95 Ophidiidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Ophidiidae |
|
|
b |
Pelvic fins not reduced to 1 or 2 filaments on each side. |
|
45 |
|
45a |
Gill openings not reaching throat, restricted to the sides of the head. |
|
46 |
b |
Gill openings reaching throat. |
|
47 |
|
46a |
One or a pair of spines or knobs on the sides of the caudal peduncle; first few dorsal rays not greatly prolonged. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Acanthuridae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 97)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_97 Acanthuridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Acanthuridae |
|
|
b |
No spines or knobs on the sides of the caudal peduncle; first few dorsal spines greatly prolonged. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Zanclidae (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 98)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_98 Zanclidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Zanclidae |
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|
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47a |
A spiny or at least roughened ridge running across cheek below eye and joining preopercle at nearly a right angle; backwardly projecting spines on top of head behind eyes. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Scorpaenidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 100)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_100 Scorpaenidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Scorpaenidae |
|
|
b |
No spiny ridge running horizontally across cheek below eye; no backward projecting spines on top of head behind eyes. |
|
48 |
|
48a |
A sucking disk on top of head. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Echeneidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 101)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_101 Echeneidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Echeneidae |
|
|
b |
No sucking disk on top of head. |
|
49 |
|
49a |
Head encased in exposed, rough, striated bone. A dense cluster of small barbels on chin. Body with broad black and white vertical bars. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Pentacerotidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 103)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_103 Pentacerotidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Pentacerotidae |
|
|
b |
Head not encased in exposed, rough, striated bone. No barbels on chin. |
|
50 |
|
50a |
Anterior nostril with a small, fringed tentacle. Lower pectoral rays unbranched and somewhat swollen, their tips projecting well beyond the interradial membranes. |
|
51 |
b |
Anterior nostril without a small, fringed tentacle. Lower pectoral rays not thickened and unbranched. |
|
52 |
|
51a |
Soft dorsal long, of 29-33 rays; color pattern of alternating oblique black and white bands. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Latridae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 105)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_105 Latridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Latridae |
|
|
b |
Soft dorsal short, of 17 or fewer rays; color pattern not of alternating oblique black and white bands. Tips of dorsal spines have one or more projecting cirri. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Cirrhitidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 106)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_106 Cirrhitidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Cirrhitidae |
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|
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52a |
Lateral line absent. Lower jaw heavy and protruding; mouth almost vertical. Elongate with continuous dorsal of 28-66 soft rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Microdesmidae (Nelson, 2006, pg. 423)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_pg_423 Microdesmidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Microdesmidae |
|
|
b |
Lateral line present, at least forward. |
|
53 |
|
53a |
A single, sharp, more or less conical spine on the opercle. Anal without spines and with 18 or more soft rays. |
|
54 |
b |
No single, sharp, more or less conical spine on the opercule. |
|
55 |
|
54a |
Caudal fin with a pair of prominent longitudinal black bars; anal fin with 46-55 rays. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Malacanthidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 109)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_109 Malacanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Malacanthidae |
|
|
b |
Caudal fin without prominent longitudinal bars; anal with 14-22 rays. Eyes oriented as much dorsally as laterally. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Pinguipedidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 110)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_110 Pinguipedidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Pinguipedidae |
|
|
|
55a |
Branched caudal rays about 15; gill covers attached to the isthmus far forward or entirely free from it. Two or more sharp anal spines. |
|
57 |
b |
Branched caudal rays 11 or 12; gill covers broadly attached to the isthmus or to one another by a membrane across the isthmus. Scales cycloid; caudal often lunate, but never forked. |
|
56 |
|
56a |
Jaw teeth either fused into a beaklike structure or with 2 to several series of overlapping incisors in front. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Scaridae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 113)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_113 Scaridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Scaridae |
|
|
b |
Jaws with a single series of separate teeth in front, often canines. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Labridae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 112)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_112 Labridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Labridae (in part) |
|
|
|
57a |
Teeth fused into a beaklike structure. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Oplegnathidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 114)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_114 Oplegnathidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Oplegnathidae |
|
|
b |
Teeth not fused into a beaklike structure. |
|
58 |
|
58a |
Anal fin with 2 spines. Lateral line ending under the soft dorsal fin; a single nostril on each side of the head. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Pomacentridae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 115)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_115 Pomacentridae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Pomacentridae |
|
|
b |
Anal fin with 3 or more spines. |
|
59 |
|
59a |
Sides plain silvery, darker above. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Kuhliidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 116)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_116 Kuhliidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Kuhliidae |
|
|
b |
Sides never plain silvery. |
|
60 |
|
60a |
Mouth small, not reaching the level of the anterior nostril; teeth more or less flexible, like the teeth of a comb. Body deep and strongly compressed. |
|
61 |
b |
Mouth moderate or large, the maxillary reaching to behind the level of the anterior nostril; teeth firm. |
|
63 |
|
61a |
Pelvic fins originating behind pectoral base. Dorsal with 11 spines and 16-18 soft rays. Body with 6 black, nearly horizontal stripes. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Microcanthidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 118)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_118 Microcanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Microcanthidae |
|
|
b |
Pelvic fins originating below pectoral base. Dorsal not with 11 spines and 16-18 soft rays. |
|
62 |
|
62a |
Prominent spine at the corner of the preopercle. No enlarged scale at base of pelvics. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the family Pomacanthidae (Nelson, 2006, pg. 379)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_pg_379 Pomacanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Pomacanthidae |
|
|
b |
No prominent spine at corner of preopercle. Enlarged scale at base of pelvics. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Chaetodontidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 117)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_117 Chaetodontidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Chaetodontidae |
|
|
|
63a |
Anal soft rays 12 or more. Pelvic fins attached to abdomen by broad membrane. Large eyes; color primarily red, sometimes silvery. Scales small and rough. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Priacanthidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 121)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_121 Priacanthidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Priacanthidae |
|
|
b |
Anal soft rays 11 or fewer. |
|
64 |
|
64a |
Posterior maxillary completely exposed when the mouth is closed. Three flat opercular spines. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Serranidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 124)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_124 Serranidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Serranidae |
|
|
b |
Posterior maxillary slips under cheek when mouth is closed. Single spine on opercle, if present. |
|
65 |
|
65a |
Dorsal with 11 to 15 soft rays (rarely 10). No spine on opercle. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Lutjanidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig.123)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_123 Lutjanidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Lutjanidae |
|
|
b |
Dorsal with 9-10 soft rays. Single flat spine on opercle. ![header=[<img src='../../infusions/keys/images/image.gif' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] body=[Representative of the Lethrinidae family (Gosline & Brock, 1960, fig. 122)<br /><img src='../../infusions/keys/figures/25_Fig_122 Lethrinidae.jpg' style='vertical-align:middle;' alt='' />] delay=[0] fade=[on]](../keys/images/image.gif) |
Lethrinidae |
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|
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(printable version)
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