First specimen-based record and preliminary assessment of the fisheries status of Otolithoides pama (Hamilton, 1822) (Perciformes: Sciaenidae) from the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Strait of Malacca

Otolithoides pama (Hamilton, 1822), commonly known as the pama croaker, is reported here from the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia based on recent specimens collected during ichthyofaunal surveys in Bagan Datuk, Perak (January 2024; n = 1) and Muar, Johor (June 2019; n = 3 and April 2025; n = 8). This represents the first voucher specimen-based distributional record of the species in Malaysian waters, where no locally deposited specimens have previously been documented.

Historically, five preserved specimens of O. pama have been held in overseas institutions since 1922, highlighting a century-long gap in local representation. The species is widely distributed across the Bay of Bengal, from Pakistan and India to Bangladesh and Myanmar, with recent records extending to the Andaman Sea (Thailand). The twelve newly collected Malaysian specimens, including one juvenile and seven pre-adults (standard length 158–325 mm), suggest possible dispersal into the Strait of Malacca via the East Indian Ocean Current.

Diagnostic features include a large body, small eyes, conical snout, large terminal mouth, short and weak second anal spine, and a pointed caudal fin. Morphometric and meristic analyses are provided, along with a phylogenetic tree based on the mitochondrial COI gene, supporting the monophyly of the species with observed intraspecific variation. This study marks a significant update to the known distribution of O. pama and contributes to the national ichthyological records with the first locally curated specimens.