Author: (Valenciennes, 1835)
FBname: Ornate ponyfish
Remark: <i>nomen dubium</i>: Sparks (2006) indicated that the designation of the lectotype(s) by Jones (1985) and Bauchot and Desoutter (1989) must be invalid because the lectotype was probably chosen from incorrect syntypes (see ICZN 1999: MNHN A.6738 with 2 specimens, MNHN A.6739, MNHN 1988-397, and MNHN 1988-328 measure too small, 26-46 mm SL, and are not correct syntypes). Valenciennes in Cuvier and Valenciennes 1835 stated clearly in the original description of <i>Equula lineolata</i>, ‘‘Nos individus sont longs de trois pouces (Our specimens are three inches in length)’’. Thus, the lectotype(s) designated are totally invalid, and it is impossible to identify <i>Equula lineolata</i> accurately for no type specimens could be found and the original description was incomplete (Ref. 120651).
Comments: Found in coastal waters.  Stays near the substrate and feeds on fish, crustaceans, chaetognaths, nematodes, bivalves, and gastropods (Ref. 5213).