Rethinking the taxonomy of economically valuable golden pompano (Trachinotus spp.) in China

Golden pompano ( Trachinotus spp.), a key species in China’s mariculture industry, refers to several species, including T . ovatus , T . mookalee , T . anak , and T . blochii , although the taxonomic identity and extent of differentiation between cultured and natural populations remain unclear. In this study, morphometric analysis, skeletal X-ray imaging, and COI sequences from Trachinotus species (21 species, with COI sequences available for 19) were used to investigate the phylogenetic relationships of golden pompanos in the coastal waters of mainland China and assess differences between cultured and natural populations. These findings indicated that the golden pompano in mainland China's coastal waters predominantly belonged to the short-fin species T . anak and not T . ovatus , and no long-fin pompano ( T . blochii ) was detected. Trachinotus ovatus has been misidentified for 60 years because of misuse of its Latin name. Another short-fin species, T . mookalee , was also not observed. Although no genetic differences were observed in COI sequences between cultured and natural populations, some subtle morphological differences were detected, suggesting a degree of morphological divergence between the two groups. This study provides a comprehensive framework for resolving taxonomic ambiguities, ensuring accurate species identification. • Misidentification resolved: Golden pompano in China misidentified as T . o vatus for 60 years; correct species is T . anak . • Comprehensive taxonomy: Integrates morphometrics, X-ray imaging, and COI data to clarify Trachinotus taxonomy in China. • Genetic stability: No genetic difference between cultured and natural T . anak populations, implying effective aquaculture practices. • Morphological insights: Subtle differences between cultured and natural T . anak provide clues for breeding and management. • Taxonomic framework for aquaculture: Establishes a basis for accurate species identification to guide aquaculture and conservation.