Most gempylid larvae are well known (Ambrose, 1996c). General appearance of gempylid larvae similar to those of scombrids, but former have serrate dorsal, anal, and pelvic fin spines, with exception of Thyrsitops. Spines present on pre-opercle. Most gempylids, except Ruvettus and Neoepinnula, with more pre-caudal than caudal vertebrae; whereas in most scombrids reverse is true (Collette et al., 1984b). In Lepidocybium flavobrunneum larvae with relatively large head, serrate pre-opercular spines. Two supra-occipital spines during larval stage. First dorsal fin is heavily pigmented (Lepidocybium flavobrunneum).
Table Gempylidae
22 geographic zones