Taxonomy of Finfish

2.1.6.3 Lateral line

The Lateral line is the sensory line formed along each side consisting of sensory pores to tiny tubes in scales or skin. Most fishes have the lateral line, but in some it is absent (Mugilidae) (Fig. 31 D). It is generally continuous (Fig. 31 A), but in some Cyprinids and Perches it may be discontinuous (Fig. 31 B) or in two levels (Fig. 31 C). Generally it stops at the base of the caudal fin but in Lates calcarifer it extends beyond into the caudal fin (Fig.31 E). In Toxotes chatareus it is interrupted (see Fig. 10).