30. Johnius carutta Bloch, 1793

Karut croaker (Figure 31)

Material examined: 1 ex.; 22.07.11; Mohana, Reg. No. MARC /ZSI/F3728 .

Description: D XI+26-29, A II+7. A small species with a rounded snout. Mouth small, low-set, nearly horizontal and inferior; no barbel on chin; caudal fin rhomboid. Chin & snout both with 5 pores. Upper two-thirds of body dark grey with a yellow or white streak along lateral line; upper two-thirds of first dorsal black. Caught with bottom trawls and bottom setnets.

Distribution: Indian Ocean: Pakistan eastward to the west coast of the Malay Peninsula.

Remarks: The fish has a commercial value. Size: 30 cm.