Redescription of Conniella apterygia Allen and its reassignment in the genus Cirrhilabrus Temminck and Schlegel (Teleostei: Labridae), with comments on cirrhilabrin pelvic morphology

Abstract

<p><i>Conniella apterygia</i> is redescribed from re-examination of the holotype, two paratypes, and six additional specimens. The genus is closely allied to <i>Cirrhilabrus</i>, sharing similarities in general morphological and meristic details, but is separated from <i>Cirrhilabrus</i> and most other labrid fishes in lacking pelvic fins and a pelvic girdle. Recent molecular phylogenetic studies have provided strong evidence for the deep nesting of <i>Conniella</i> within <i>Cirrhilabrus</i>, contradicting its generic validity and suggesting that the loss of pelvic elements is autapomorphic. Consequently, the species is redescribed and assigned to the genus <i>Cirrhilabrus</i>, as <i>Cirrhilabrus apterygia</i><b> new combination</b>. The pelvic morphologies of related cirrhilabrin labrids are discussed, and a new synapomorphy is identified for <i>Paracheilinus</i>.</p>