Bunaka gyrinoides (Bleeker, 1853) (Pisces: Perciformes: Eleotridae), a new record from Kerala

Abstract

Bunaka gyrinoides is recorded for the first time from Kerala in river Pamba at Perumthenaruvi, Kerala, India. It is characterised by metallic black colour, blue eyes, depressed head, oblique mouth, presence of ctenoid scales on the body, cycloid scales on the head and distinct paired pre-opercular canals. The fish is strictly adapted for benthic life and its occurrence in the river 300m above msl and 120km up from the sea has not so far been reported.