Oxyurichthys jiwaniensis, a new species of gobionelline goby (Oxudercidae: Gobionellinae) from Jiwani Hor, Balochistan, Pakistan

Abstract

We describe a new species, Oxyurichthys jiwaniensis sp. nov. based on integrated taxonomic approach and otolith shape parameters. The specimens were collected from Jiwani Hor, Balochistan. This new species is distinguished from other Oxyurichthys by the combination of following characters, overall body cylindrical two separate dorsal fins D1 VI; D2 I, 10; A 10–11; P 13; V 5 rays per-side of the pelvic fin. The pelvic fins are united to form a well-developed disc, the frenum (anterior connecting membrane) is present but the posterior membrane between fin tips is thin or weakly developed and remarkably lacking spine. The spine in anal fin was also absent. The caudal fin (11 rays) short with a blue bloch on the caudal fin dorsally. The body exhibits brown dorsal with minute black and golden dots on the entire dorsal surface. The body ventrally is creamy with only few scattered tiny black dots. The head and operculum are blue-green, covered with small spots distributed across the entire head region. The gill rakers number 10 on the first arch 12 on second arch, 15 on third arch, and 11 on the 4th arch. Scales ctenoid with a row of ctenii is evident on the scales base. The pattern of sensory papillae was observed around the eyes and across the preopercle, opercle, and chin regions. The new species closely resembles jester goby, Oxyurichthys paulae, but it can be distinguished by the shape of head, black tip on its pelvic fin, and brown bands across its body which is defining characteristics of the jester goby. This study, for the first time, adds to existing knowledge of gobionelline goby diversity revealing that despite population declines, novel species continue to emerge from the northern Arabian Sea coast of Balochistan.