A new dwarf goby of genus Eviota (Teleostei: Gobiidae) from northern Taiwan

Abstract

A new dwarf goby of genus Eviota was found and collected via SCUBA diving from northern Taiwan. The new species, Eviota bifurca sp. nov. can be well distinguished from other congeneric species by the unique combination of following features: (1) second dorsal fin I/8, anal fin I/8, pectoral fin 16; (2) longitudinal scale rows 24-25; (3) typical head canal pattern in lacking posterior oculoscapular canal and preopercular canal; (4) mouth large, extending to middle vertical of eye; and (5) specific coloration: body and head creamy white. Each scale pocket with golden yellow to yellowish brown margin. Ventral profile after anus with 5 major inner blackish brown blotches. Snout pointed with a bright orange stripe crossing to both lips. Two somewhat vertical orange lines below orbit. Totally trunk after first dorsal fin origin with 9 dorsal inner marks. First dorsal fin translucent with a basal forked brown mark. Basal region of first dorsal fin with three inner brown marks. Second dorsal fin translucent with 4-5 longitudinal rows of brown spots. Basal region of second dorsal fin also with three inner brown marks. Pectoral fin base with an upper orange round spot. Caudal fin base with a vertical brown bar. A brief morphological comparison with congeners will also be addressed.