Neostethidae

views updated

Neostethidae (subclass Actinopterygii, order Atheriniformes) A small family of brackish-water and freshwater fish that have a rather slender and almost transparent body. The pelvic fins of the males are modified to form a complex copulatory apparatus (pelvic fins are absent in the females). The anus is located far forward. Most species are very small (4 cm) and are found in coastal creeks in south-east Asia. There are about 16 species.