Bony Fish
Our next group of marine vertebrates are from the Class Osteichthyes and consist of the bony fish. Consisting of two subclasses, Actinopterygii – the Ray-finned fish, and Sarcopterygii – the Lobe-finned fish, consisting of over 28,000 species. 99% of all fish species belong to this order.
They can be found in marine and fresh water and have a range of characteristics that are adapted to life below water. These consist of: jaws with teeth, a bony skeleton, paired fins and gills covered by operculum, skin covered with scales, a swim bladder for buoyancy control, a homocercal tail (both top and bottom can be the same size), and a lateral line.
Can you think of a famous bony fish? Pop your answer in the chat below.
Life Below Water: Conservation, Current Issues, Possible Solutions
Life Below Water: Conservation, Current Issues, Possible Solutions
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