A new blue-spotted Maskray species (Neotrygon, Dasyatidae) from Fiji

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Ichthyology
• Taxonomy

Background:

• The blue-spotted maskray species complex in Fiji was previously poorly defined.
• Confusion existed between Neotrygon romeoi n. sp. and Neotrygon kuhlii or Neotrygon trigonoides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formally describe Neotrygon romeoi n. sp., a new species of maskray from Fiji.
• To differentiate this new species from previously known congeners using morphological and molecular data.

Main Methods:

• Morphological examination of nine specimens (310–397 mm disc width).
• Analysis of partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) mitochondrial gene sequences (570 bp).
• Comparison with existing Neotrygon species descriptions and type specimens.

Main Results:

• Neotrygon romeoi n. sp. is characterized by a broadly angled snout, long claspers in males, and a median row of thornlets.
• Distinctive coloration includes a mask-like marking, branchial blotches, and pepper-like spots; ocellated spots are typically absent.
• Molecular analysis confirmed N. romeoi n. sp. as genetically distinct from other Neotrygon species.

Conclusions:

• Neotrygon romeoi n. sp. is a newly described species endemic to the Fiji Islands.
• This discovery necessitates a re-evaluation of maskray taxonomy and distribution in the region.
• The species' endemic status may warrant its inclusion in Fiji's Endangered and Protected Species Act.