Authors: Rochele L. Villanueva1,*, Niño Jess Mar F. Mecha1, Elmer G. Villanueva1,2, Michael Angelo D. Maga-ao3 and Roger G. Dolorosa1
1College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Western Philippines University
2Napsan National High School, Puerto Princesa City
3College of Arts and Sciences, Western Philippines University
*Correspondence: villanueva.rochele@gmail.com
How to cite:
Villanueva RL, Mecha NJMF, Villanueva EG, Maga-ao MAD and Dolorosa RG. In press. A checklist of damselfishes (Pomacentridae) from Palawan, Philippines. The Palawan Scientist, 15(1): 8-23.
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to generate information on the number of damselfish species in Palawan, the most common tropical reef-associated fishes in the world. Photos of reef-associated fishes taken in conjunction with other reef surveys in 10 localities between 2019 and 2021 were used and evaluated for the presence of damselfishes. A total of 4,038 photos of reef-associated fishes were compiled and analyzed. Only 60 species of damselfishes were identified wherein Puerco Island in the municipality of Roxas had the highest number (14 genera and 32 species) while Hartman’s Beach in Puerto Princesa City had the lowest (3 genera and 8 species). Three of the identified damselfishes were potentially new records in Palawan: Amblypomacentrus clarus Allen & Adrim, 2000, Dischistodus darwiniensis (Whitley, 1928); and Pomacentrus aurifrons Allen, 2004. The current data make a total of 137 damselfish species already documented in Palawan. Continued photo-video documentation is encouraged to increase understanding on the species richness of damselfishes and other reef-associated fauna.
Keywords: biodiversity, marine fishes, marine water, species checklist, species richness
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