First record of the spearfish remora Remora brachyptera (Carangiformes: Echeneidae) in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mexico

Abstract

Background. Seven remora species are described for the Eastern Pacific, of them Remora brachyptera has not been confirmed in South Mexican Pacific. Goals. The aim of this note is to report the presence of R. brachyptera on the Gulf of Tehuantepec. Methods. The specimen was collected during sportfish activities in May 2013 in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca. Results. This species was identified by having 17 laminae in the cephalic disc and the dorsal fin that originates above the anal fin, dorsal fin with 27 rays, pectoral fin with 23 rays, cephalic disc length 32.6% standard length, and truncated tail. Conclusions. This is first record of R. brachyptera in the Gulf of Tehuantepec.