Malacoctenus mexicanus Springer 1959

Malacoctenus mexicanus differs from Malacoctenus margaritae by the following characters: symphysial pores 1-4, usually 1 (vs. 1-4, usually 2-4); scales between anterior lateral line and the dorsal contour 4-5, usually 4 (vs. 3-4, usually 3); and in Malacoctenus margaritae the length of the third pelvic-fin ray is shorter and body marking is considerably more distinct (Ref. 82814).