A New Genus and Two New Species of Clingfishes (Gobiesocidae) from New Zealand

Modicus is proposed for two new species of clingfishes collected from 20-149 m of water around the New Zealand coastline. Characterized by gill filaments on the first 3 gill arches, gill membranes fused medially with the isthmus, and a "double" pelvic disc, the genus is provisionally included in the Aspasminae. Modicus differs uniquely from other aspasmine genera in having numerous, well-developed gill rakers; 27-30 pectoral-fin rays; and teeth clustered at the front of each jaw, with 0-2 well-developed canines on each jaw, and a single row of backwardly curved teeth on the side of the lower jaw only. Modicus minimus differs from M. tangaroa in having a well-developed, posteriorly directed spine on the lateral face of the subopercle; a greater number of gill rakers; usually fewer caudal fin ray elements (pre- and procurrent); and 1 branchiostegal on the epihyal (none in M. tangaroa).