Three new goatfishes of the genus Upeneus from the Eastern Indian Ocean and Western Pacific, with an updated taxonomic account for U. itoui <br />(Mullidae: japonicus-species group)

Coastal marine fish diversity from E India and Indonesia to S Japan is still insufficiently investigated. Of the 42 species of goatfishes (Mullidae) recorded this area, 12 were described only since 2010 ten those belong genus Upeneus. During a recent review Upeneus so-called japonicus-species group (characterized by seven dorsal-fin spines), 13 specimens that had been previously identified as U. guttatus Vietnam found be distinct, representing possibly two undescribed species. These studied together with 20 itoui Japan, rather similar species, yet unidentified congeneric Japan. In total 41 morphometric, 10 meristic several colour characters examined detailed comparisons large data set all 14 japonicus-group conducted. Three new dimipavlov n. sp. Nha Trang, S-central Vietnam, elongatus Tanega-shima Island, Kagoshima, willwhite Lombok, are an updated account for provided. Among these four featured most different, having more gill rakers, shallowest head body distinct patterns on caudal dorsal fins. differs remaining in rounded less laterally compressed wider peduncle no conspicuous mid-lateral stripe fresh fish. deeper head, larger eyes, longer upper jaw barbels oblique bars lower caudal-fin lobe which do not cross entire lobe. Additional each other heterospinus conducted providing evidence distinction differential diagnosis. Unvouchered in-situ photographs goatfish Central Philippines resemble caudal- presented. The need further sampling associated taxonomic investigations prerequisites appropriate assessment ecological conservation parameters such diversity, distribution rarity emphasized discussion.