Pylorobranchus hoi, a New Genus and Species of Myrophine Worm-Eel from Taiwan (Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae)

Pylorobranchus gen. nov. McCosker and Chen is described. It differs from other genera of myrophin ophichthids by possessing a fleshy epidermal lappet in advance of the gill opening, and in the condition of its elevated posterior nostril location, elongated jaws and dentition, its laterally compressed body, and elevated median fins. Pylorobranchus hoi sp. nov. McCosker, Loh and Lin, the type species, is described from 3 specimens caught by hook-and-line off eastern Taiwan. A key to the genera of myrophine ophichthids is provided.