Osteologia e afinidades filogenéticas de Paraelops cearensis Silva Santos, 1971 (Pisces, Teleostei, Elopiformes)

Abstract

A osteologic redescription of Paraelops cearensis Silva Santos, 1971 is made with basis in new samples. That species is kept temporarily within Elopidae by the structure and disposition of hiopalatine, opercular, and neurocranium bones. Only Paraelops, Elops, and Davichthys are included in that family. Anaethalion is excluded, occupying a lower rank, below Elopiformes. The phylogenetic relationships os Paraelops are discussed concerning to other Elopiformes and close lower teleostean fishes. Considerations are made about the fossil fishes of the brazilian cretaceous strata described by several authors as Elopidae.