Generic revision on the Biwia– Microphysogobio complex (Cypriniformes, Gobionidae) with descriptions of three new genera

By

Sun, Zhixian
Tang, Wenqiao
Zhao, Yahui

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2025-10-16

Original Publication

Zoosystematics and evolution

Volume

101

Series / Issue

Issue: 4

Pages

2013--2037

Subjects

East Asia , freshwater fish , Morphology , mtDNA genome , Phylogeny

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Sofia Pensoft

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/zse.101.160106

 

Abstract

The Biwia–Microphysogobio complex, comprising several genera and over 40 valid species, is widely distributed in the freshwater systems of East Asia. Although many species of this complex have been discovered in the past decades, controversy regarding the taxonomic status of these genera still remains. This study revised the Biwia–Microphysogobio complex at the generic level. Based on the morphology of the type species in each genus and various species within this complex, the genus characteristics are described. The morphology of the lip papillae pattern, jaws, and air bladder chambers are key characteristics used to distinguish the genera. With further evidence supported by the molecular phylogenetic relationships reconstructed from mitochondrial genome sequences, each genus in this complex formed a monophyletic group. The previously polyphyletic Microphysogobio is now separated into four genera, rendering the newly defined genus Microphysogobio monophyletic. The other three genera are newly described, i.e., Crossocheilogobio, Mesophysogobio, and Oriengobio. Along with Biwia, Huigobio, and Platysmacheilus, the complex now includes seven genera. The distribution of each genus is mapped separately in this study. A diagnostic key to genera is provided, and species included in each genus are listed. Sixteen new combinations are generated in this study.