First record of Blackfin stonefish Pseudosynanceia melanostigma, Day, 1875 (Synanceiidae: Scorpaeniformes) from India

Abstract

The present study documents the first confirmed occurrence of the blackfin stonefish (Pseudosynanceia melanostigma, Day, 1875) from the Indian waters, based on the specimens collected from the coastal regions of Gujarat along the west coast of India. This species, belonging to the family Synanceiidae, was identified through detailed morphological analysis. The key diagnostic features observed include a distinctive colour pattern, branchiostegal membranes broadly fused to the isthmus, the specific count of dorsal fin spines, segmented pelvic fin rays, the presence of a large black spot on the anterior part of soft dorsal fins, and two broad dark bars on the caudal fin. Given the limited taxonomic and ecological information available on stone fishes in India, this finding highlights the need for more systematic studies to better understand the distribution, diversity and potential risk associated with venomous marine fishes in the region.