Skeletal malformations are often associated with limited movement, reduced feeding capacity, depressedgrowth, and a high mortality rate. Deformed fish have a low market value and represent wasted time and effort.Skeletal malformations are observed frequently in hatchery-reared marine finfish larvae and juveniles. Such malformationscontinually hinder development of marine finfish aquaculture. This study summarizes early bone development(including jaw skeleton, vertebral column, and caudal vertebra) characteristics of commercial marinefish, such as golden pompano, yellowtail kingfish, and Asian sea bass, and compares bone malformation position,time of occurrence, and frequency in fish larvae. We also review genetic, environmental, and nutritional factorsthat regulate skeletal development in marine fish larvae to help reduced skeletal deformities during marine larvalfish culture.