First record of Keeltail pomfret Taractes rubescens (Jordan & Evermann, 1887) in Palawan, Philippines

Abstract

Palawan is widely recognized for its shallow-water fish biodiversity, however, the diversity of deep-sea species that inhabit its offshore waters remains poorly documented. This paper documents the first recorded presence of the Keeltail pomfret Taractes rubescens (Jordan & Evermann, 1887) in Palawan. One specimen displayed for sale was purchased on 27 April 2024 at the Puerto Princesa City New Market. According to the fish vendor, the fish was caught off the city’s eastern coastline. It weighed around 3.0 kg and measured 610 mm in total length. Other measurements included a standard length of 475 mm, a fork length of 530 mm, and a body depth of 175 mm. Additional key measurements included a 290 mm distance from snout to anal fin, a 145 mm head length, and a 175 mm pectoral fin length. Meristic features recorded include 29 dorsal fin rays, 20 anal fin rays, 42 lateral line scales, and a gill raker count of 4 + 12 gill rakers (upper limb + lower limb) on the left arch compared 3 + 14 gill rakers on the right arch. This new record adds to the growing list of deep-sea species found in the region and highlights the valuable role of local fish markets in uncovering and documenting marine biodiversity, particularly for species from less-explored deep-sea habitats.