Checklist of Siganids from the Jaffna lagoon, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Jaffna lagoon in Northern Province of Sri Lanka is an important fishing area which also harbours high marine biodiversity. Members of the family Siganidae are commercially and economically important species among mangroves and estuaries and shallow lagoons in Sri Lanka. They belong to order Perciformes, sub order Siganoidei. Most of the members ase excellent for mariculture due to their herbivorous food habits, rapid growth and economic value. The present study is an aim to document the species diversity of siganids inhabiting the Jaffna lagoon. The present investigation was carried out from June 2011 to June 2012 in order to update the checklist of the species of the family siganidae. Samples were collected from Kurunagar, Paasaiyoor, Navanthurai and Kakaitheevu landing centres. Specimens were collected by Sirahu valai, traps baited with aquatic plants, bottom gill nets and cast nets which are used in commercial fishing around the Jaffna lagoon. All siganids were brought to the laboratory and identified up to species level using their morphological characters. Their photographs were also taken. Based on the present study, seven species of siganids were recorded, including Siganus canaliculatus, S. javus, S. lineatus, S. stellatus, S. virgatus, S. vermiculatus and S. spinus. The distinguishing morphological characters used for the identification are discussed and the key to identify siganids was constructed.