Ichthyoplankton of the Arctic Seas of Russia: 2. Morphology of Larval Snailfishes of the Genus Liparis (Liparidae)

Resumo

The morphology of larvae of the genus Liparis from the Arctic seas of Russia (White, Kara, Laptev, and East Siberian seas) has been studied. Based on the analysis of measurable and meristic traits and body pigmentation pattern, four main types of larvae corresponding to four species are identified: L. bathyarcticus, L. fabricii, L. liparis, and L. tunicatus. A combination of morphological traits that allows reliable discrimination between larvae of the genus Liparis has been established and confirmed with molecular data. Original drawings and descriptions of larval traits are provided for each species.