한국산 대치과 어류의 분자계통 및 분류학적 재검토

Abstract

A cryptic species refers to “two or more distinct but morphologically similar species that were classified as a single species”. Cryptic species have been discovered in many taxa in recent years. The existence of cryptic species makes it difficult to identify the species and biodiversity can be underestimated, so research to understand cryptic species is essential. The members of Fistulariidae, or cornetfish, have a unique shape, characterized by a very long, thin body and a long tubular snout that comprises one third of the body. Four species in one genus are known worldwide, and they are widely distributed from the Indo-Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean; they were recently also reported in the Mediterranean Sea. In a previous study the cryptic diversity of Fistularia petimba has been considered and synonyms for F. petimba suggest that a cryptic species may exist. To clarify the taxonomic status of cryptic species in F. petimba, we conducted molecular and morphological studies of specimens collected directly or loaned from museums abroad. The molecular analysis (COI, 16S, and Myh6 sequences) found different lineages in F. petimba. Morphologically, two lineages of F. petimba was clearly differentiated in the shape of the posterior lateral line ossifications, the presence or absence of small spinules in the skin, snout width, interorbital length, and the number of vertebrae. Therefore, both genetic and morphological evidence strongly support the existence of cryptic species in F. petimba. In addition, it is intended to give correct names by examining the confusing records of F. petimba and F. commersonii appearing in Korea.