The larval distribution and feeding habits of Cynoglossus abbreviatus and Cynoglossus lighti were investigated around the Rokkaku estuary in Ariake Bay during October 2004 and March and April 2005. Cynoglossus abbreviatus started and completed metamorphosis at larger sizes than C. lighti. Developmental phases consisted primarily of individuals at metamorphosis and postmetamorphosis, which were mainly distributed inside and just outside the Rokkaku River in March-April for C. abbreviatus and October for C. lighti. Tidal changes in vertical distribution just outside the river mouth differed between the closely related species; C. abbreviatus was distributed in the surface and middle layers at flood tide, and aggregated near the bottom (where the current speed was lowest) at ebb tide. Cynoglossus lighti stayed mainly near the bottom during all tidal phases. Larvae of both Cynoglossus species selectively fed on copepods (Pseudobradya sp.), which were scarce in the waters. These facts suggest that the nursery grounds of the two Cynoglossus species were different in terms of their tidal vertical distribution patterns.