Características y Tipos de Peces

Characteristics of Fish

• Cold-blooded (ectothermic): body temperature regulated by environment
• Aquatic animals that breathe through gills
• Scales provide protection and reduce friction
• Streamlined bodies for efficient swimming

Body Structure

• Skeleton: made of bone or cartilage
• Fins: dorsal (back), anal (bottom), pectoral (side), and caudal (tail) fins for movement and balance
• Scales: overlapping, protective plates that reduce friction and provide camouflage

Types of Fish

• Bony fish (Osteichthyes): majority of fish, including goldfish and salmon
• Cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes): sharks, rays, and skates
• Jawless fish (Agnatha): hagfish and lampreys (primitive, eel-like fish)

Senses and Behavior

• Vision: highly developed, with some species having excellent color vision
• Hearing: detect vibrations through lateral line system
• Smell: highly developed sense of smell
• Social behavior: some species are solitary, while others form schools for protection and mating

Adaptations

• Camouflage: coloration and body shape help fish blend in with environment
• Speed: fast swimming allows fish to catch prey or escape predators
• Defense mechanisms: poison, spines, or bioluminescence deter predators