First record of whitespot sandsmelt, Parapercis alboguttata (Günther, 1872) from the southeast coast of Bangladesh

Abstract

Fish species are motile and frequently occur in the new geographic area increasing their distributional range intentionally or accidentally. Species in the genera are very close to each other morphologically. Thus, proper identification of a species is essential for the implementation of efficient management and conservation plans. The presence of whitespot sandsmelt, Parapercis alboguttata in the coastal water of Bangladesh was confirmed based on the morphological features with the record of seven specimens in March 2018. The specimens, captured from the northernmost part of the Bay of Bengal, were estimated to be 115-201 mm in total length. The presence of recurved canine teeth, a sharp spine on the opercula, comparatively large third spine of the dorsal fin, and light blue coloration of the snout are considered as the unique characters to identify this species. This record represents the rapid expansion of its distributional range along the coast of south-east Asia which is mostly known from the Indo-West Pacific region. Probable reasons for its introduction in the coastal waters of Bangladesh are discussed; however, the dynamics of the occurrence of P. alboguttata in the Bay of Bengal remain unknown.