REDESCRIPTION OF THE CLINGFISH COCHLEOCEPS SPATULA (GOBIESOCIDAE) FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA AND SOUTH AUSTRALIA, WITH THE DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES FROM VICTORIA AND TASMANIA

WA Museum Records and Supplements | Updated 1 decade ago

Abstract
Cochleoceps spatula (Gunther) is recognized as the valid name for a cling fish inhabiting Western Australia and South Australian seas. It can be distinguished from all other temperate Australian gobiesocids by its relatively long, depressed, rectangular-shaped snout and the anterior placement of its posterior nostril (anterior to front border of eye). The species is redescribed on the basis of new material from both States, as well as the holotype. Victorian and Tasmanian specimens previously identified as C. spatula represent a new species, C. bassensis. It may be separated from the former species by the more triangular-shaped snout and more posteriorly placed rear nostril (behind eye's anterior border). A description of this species is also included.