Occurrence of Abudefduf spp. (Pisces: Pomacentridae) in the Lebanese coastal water (eastern Mediterranean) - morphological traits and visual evidence

Abstract

New records of fish of the genus Abudefduf observed and photographed in the Lebanese coastal waters are reported in the paper. The individuals from photos were examined on the basis of visible external morphological characters and geographical location already known in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as compared with photos taken elsewhere in their natural environments from various origins. In agreement with that reported by other authors, a careful analysis of these photos shows uncertainties in the validity of the visual characters previously used to distinguish between the two congeners A. vaigiensis and A. saxatilis already reported in the Mediterranean Sea, and even their possible confusion with A. troschelii. In some individuals, new morphological features are emphasized and may provide visual evidence for the presence of Abudefduf cf. troschelii (Gill, 1862). Sympatry and possible hybridization are discussed.