Populations of the Butterfish, Poronotus triacanthus (Peck), with Systematic Comments

Abstract

Examination of large series of butterfish from throughout their range revealed three major populations: a deep-bodied form in the Gulf of Mexico; an intermediate form in Western Atlantic waters of 12 fathoms or less south of Cape Hatteras; and a generally shallow-bodied form in Western Atlantic waters north of Hatteras and south of Hatteras beyond 13 fathoms. Peprilus burti Fowler is placed in the synonymy of Poronotus triacanthus (Peck).