Abstract
Sagittal features (4) recur in different combinations on the otoliths of teleostean fishes in the numerous orders. It was, therefore, possible to separate and delimit the orders. The 4 features [structure of the collicula; the opening of the sulcus acusticus; the structure of the ostium and the cauda; and the definition of the cristae superior and inferior] show a development from simple to more complex combinations. This allows the construction of a provisional new phyletic sequence of the South African teleost orders.