Compsanthias, new genus of Pacific Anthiadidae (Teleostei).

Compsanthias new genus is described for Anthias ventralis Randall (type species) and A. hawaiiensis Randall, which had been previously classified in the genus Pseudanthias Bleeker. Compsanthias is distinguished from other anthiadid genera in having the following combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays X,16-18, usually X,17; anal-fin rays III,9-10, usually III,9; pectoral-fin rays 14-16, usually 15, most rays branched; branched caudal-fin rays 7+6; tubed scales in lateral series 39-46. Three characters are presented as evidence for monophyly, although each needs further investigation: relatively large infraorbital 3, modally III,9 anal-fin rays, and presence of red to purple oblique stripe from behind upper part of eye to upper part of head. Additional potential synapomorphies relevant to the phylogenetic position of the genus are discussed.