Ammocoetes: Max. size 156 mm TL (but presumably at least 167 mm TL, the length attained by metamorphosing ammocoetes). Body proportions, as percentage of TL (based on 123 specimens measuring 60-129 mm TL; the values given below represent ranges of means based on six groups of samples as follows: 11 and 21 specimens 60-90 mm TL, 39 and 21 specimens 90-99 mm TL, and 10 and 21 specimens 120-129 mm TL): prebranchial length, 6.9-9.2; branchial length, 12.1-14.5; trunk length, 52.3-53.1; tail length, 23.4-28.8. Trunk myomeres, 67-74. Extent of pigmentation (- = absence to trace; + = 1% to under 25%; ++ = 25% to under 75%; +++ = 75% or more): upper lip, ++ or +++; cheek, +++; subocular, +++; upper prebranchial, ++ or +++; lower prebranchial, +; upper branchial, ++ or +++; lower branchial, -; caudal fin, ++ or +++; tongue precursor bulb, - ; along elastic ridge of tongue precursor, +. Lateral line neuromasts pigmentation unrecorded. Caudal fin shape, typically rounded, rarely spade-like. Metamorphosing ammocoetes: 136-167 mm TL (Ref. 89241). The duration of larval life varies but averages about five years (Ref. 6258). |