First Integrative Taxonomic Insights into the Genus Hemiramphus (Family: Hemiramphidae) from the Indian Coast

The taxonomic status of Hemiramphus Cuvier, 1816 species along the Indian coast has been subject to frequent misidentifications, complicating ecological and fisheries research. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the morphometric, meristic, and molecular characteristics of Hemiramphus far (Forsskål, 1775), H. lutkei (Valenciennes, 1847), and H. archipelagicus (Collette & Parin, 1978) to clarify their identification. Morphological analyses were conducted based on key diagnostic features, including eye shape, nostril position, body markings, beak length, pectoral fin length, body depth, vertebrae, and otolith shape. Additionally, molecular data from the COI and 16S rRNA genes were analysed using maximum likelihood phylogenetic methods to assess genetic divergence and species relationships. The findings refine the taxonomic delineation of Hemiramphus species in Indian waters, enhancing accuracy in species identification. This study provides critical baseline data for fisheries management, biodiversity conservation, and future ecological research.