This data paper describes a dataset of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences from 51 fish specimens obtained from local fish markets in eight coastal localities in Oman and Saudi Arabia. For each vouchered specimen, basic metadata such as locality, date of purchase, and morphometric data was documented, and a photographic record was made. Tissue samples were collected for DNA analysis. The COI gene was amplified and sequenced using standard DNA protocols. The resulting COI sequences were curated and deposited in the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). The dataset enhances the genetic representation of marine fishes from the Red Sea and Arabian Sea and adds three novel fish COI records in BOLD, Plectropomus marisrubri, Scarus zufar, and Scorpaenopsis lactomaculata, as well as numerous fish taxa which are currently poorly documented. These sequences represent a reference resource for specimen identification and verification, and can be used to underpin taxonomic revisions, comparative phylogenetic and phylogeographic studies, assessments of regional biodiversity and sea food authentication. In making these data freely available, this contribution promotes reproducibility, data reuse, and collaboration among researchers working on marine ecology, conservation, and fisheries management, as well as monitoring and consumer protection.
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