Taxonomy of Finfish (1+2)

3.3.9.1.19 Monodactylidae (Moonies)

• Oval shaped, strongly compressed body
• Free from isthmus
• Juveniles with pelvic fin rudimentary (very small) or absent in adults
• Dorsal fin with 7 or 8 spines and 25 to 30 soft rays.

Eg. Monodactylus argenteus  

Similar Families

Scatophagidae and - Dorsal fin with 10 to 17 spines/well separated from soft Chaetodontidae rayed part of fin, well developed pelvic fins.

Drepanidae/ Platacidae/Ephippidae - Pelvic fin well developed.

Menidae - Scaleless body, dorsal fin spines absent in adults; Two pelvic fin rays much elongated.

Carangidae - Anal fins with two spines; caudal fin forked.