Questions and Answers
Over half of all known vertebrates belong to the Class Actinopterygii.
True
The Class Actinopterygii includes freshwater species (bass, trout, perch, minnows) and marine species (flounder, grouper, tarpon, sailfish, sea horses).
True
What respiratory structures have become the most effective in modern bony fishes?
gills
What is the function of the operculum in bony fishes?
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What allows fish to achieve neutral buoyancy in the water column?
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What do bony rays provide to fish?
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During the Devonian period, into which two major groups did bony fish diverge?
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The dorsal fin of bony fishes shifted from a heavy, fixed keel to a thinner, more flexible and foldable fin.
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What is the function of opercula in bony fishes?
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Who are the most common ancestors to bony fish?
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Study Notes
Characteristics of Class Actinopterygii
- Over half of all known vertebrates belong to Class Actinopterygii.
- This class includes both freshwater species (e.g., bass, trout, perch, minnows) and marine species (e.g., flounder, grouper, tarpon, sailfish, sea horses).
Respiratory Structures
- Gills of modern bony fishes are the most efficient respiratory structures in the animal kingdom.
- Operculum, a movable flap covering each gill, enhances gill efficiency by pumping water over them, enabling breathing while stationary.
Buoyancy and Support
- The swim bladder allows fish to maintain neutral buoyancy and aids in gas exchange.
- Bony rays provide increased support and rigidity, allowing for flexibility in maneuvering.
Evolutionary Divergence
- During the Devonian period, bony fish evolved into two major groups: Class Sarcopterygii and Class Actinopterygii.
Fin Structure
- The dorsal fin of bony fishes evolved from a heavy, fixed structure to a thinner, more flexible, and foldable fin.
Feeding Mechanism
- Opercula contribute to creating a sophisticated suction mechanism for capturing prey.
Ancestry
- Amphibians represent the most common ancestor to bony fish.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the major characteristics of the Class Actinopterygii, which encompasses a wide variety of vertebrates. This quiz includes true/false questions and definitions related to freshwater and marine species, as well as gill structures in modern bony fishes. Perfect for students studying ichthyology or related subjects!
