On the presence of Pomadasys incisus, Bowdich, 1825, (Ostheichthyes, Haemulidae) in Maltese coastal waters (Strait of Sicily-central mediterranean)

The presence of the bastard grunt Pomadasys incisus (Bowdich, 1825) has been reported for the first time in the Maltese waters. Two specimens (1 female and 1 male) were fished in Autumn 2003, by a bottom handline in Valletta and ‘Msida harbours (Malta). The female was 22.5 cm TL and aged 3+. It was mature, with a gonad-somatic index of 3.16, showing large eggs but not hydrated (diameter range: 306-468 ¼m). The male, with a maturing testis, was 21.0 cm TL and 4+ aged.