Structure, Function, and Ecology in the Goatfishes (Family Mullidae)

Abstract

The Mullidae differ from other percoid families in a number of structural features. The most notable of these is a pair of highly developed hyoid barbels used in feeding. Many of the other goatfish specializations seem to be associated in one way or another with the use made of these barbels. Structural peculiarities of the Mullidae are described and their functional and ecological implications suggested where possible. The hypothesis is made that the goatfishes have evolved a distincti ve ecological niche for themselves based on their use of the barbels in hunting.