ABSTRACT
Barbulifer Eigenmann and Eigenmann, 1888 A neotropical genus with fi ve species, Barbulifer comprises two eastern Pacific species distributed from the Gulf of California south to central Mexico, and three western Atlantic species from southern Florida to southern Brazil. One species has passed through the Panama Canal and is now found in Pacifi c Panama. All species inhabit shallow water marine environments, generally in depths less than 1 m. Barbulifer pantherinus, a cryptic species found hiding under rocks or near the base of sponges or algae, reaches depths of 32 m. Species range in size from 2 to 5 cm SL. All species are characterized by the presence of barbels on the head and the complete absence of scales. Valid species include B. antennatus, B. ceuthoecus, B. enigmaticus, B. mexicanus, and B. pantherinus (Joyeux et al., 2009) (Fig. 2.1.1B, Table 2.1.2).
