An interesting post-larval Bothid fish from Porto Novo, South India

Abstract

Two interesting post-larval stages of flat fishes were obtained on 23-1-1969 at Porto Novo from the fish catches with a seine net operated at a depth of 15 to 20 fathoms from a non-mechanised craft. The specimens [measured 63 mm. and 60 mm]. respectively in total length. The smaller specimen was deeply cut and damaged behind the operculum. In both specimens the right eye had moved upwards but not migrated. It is rather rare to find a flat fish larva of this length without the migration of the eye. Ochiai and Amaoka (1963) have recorded from Japanese waters a just metamorphosed post-larva oi Amoglossus japonicus Hubbs, measuring 56 mm. Smith (1967) has reported a similar larval bothiid fish, Parabothus thackerayi Smith, measuring 51 mm. in total length collected from a rock pool near Durban, South Africa.