Scale morphology and squamation patterns in cichlids (Teleostei, Perciformes): A comparative study

Problems in cichlid systematics call for new characteristics to be exploited. Scale surface morphology and squamation patterns could provide novel and useful information. A comparative study comprising 105 African, 10 American, and eight outgroup species was conducted to identify the most useful scale and squamation characters within the family and to clarify their phylogenetic significance. A great number of obviously genetically fixed characters were established. At least IS scale granulation types could be identified, proving to be ofparticular value for systematic purposes. Squamation patterns on the head, breast and fins were also found to be of interest in this context. Different character states are described and their distribution is reviewed, together with a discussion of their plesiomorphic status. From the results it can be concluded that for the Cichlidae scale and squamation studies can be valuable tools in investigating phylogenetic relationships.