Early planktonic larvae of the blackcheek tonguefish,Symphurus plagiusa (Pisces: Cynoglossidae), in the lower Chesapeake Bay

Abstract

One hundred ninety-four larvae ofSymphurus plagiusa were taken in the lower Chesapeake Bay during a three-year zooplankton survey 1971–1974. Early larval stages (1.3–6.2 mm NL) are illustrated and described. Recently hatched larvae (1.3–2.8 mm NL) are distinguished by pigment patterns, gut configuration, and a fleshy occipital hump. Later larvae (2.8–6.2 mm NL) are identified by pigmentation, gut configuration and produced dorsal rays.