Abstract
Examination of the type series of Lestidiumjaponica Tanaka reveals that the generally accepted concept of this species does not accord with the type series. A historical review of the literature showed that the characterization of L.japonica changed over time, and what has been recognized as "L.japonica" for more than 70 years actually represents a distinct and different species. Among the junior synonyms of "L.japonica", Paralepisphilippinus Fowler, 1934 is resurrected as a valid species herein in a new combination, Lestrolepisphilippina. Lestrolepisnigroventralis Ho, Tsai & Li is recognized as a junior synonym of L.japonica herein. Revised diagnostic characteristics for both L.japonica and L.philippina are provided, along with comments on related names to verify their nomenclatural status.