FISH MORPHOLOGY

Body Shape - Fusiform• Streamlined, torpedo-shaped• Fast-swimming fish• Predators, live in open water• Move tail side to side• Examples: tuna, swordfish, shark, striped bass

side view front view

Body Shape - Compressiform• Compressed from side to side• Quick bursts of speed over short distances• Live among plants and move in narrow spaces• Examples: moonfish, angelfish• Move tail side to side

front view

Body Shape - Depressiform

• Flattened top to bottom• Live on bottom• Slow• Flap fins up and down and swim like a bird• Examples: flounder, skates, rays

front view

Body Shape – Filiform (Attenuated)

• Elongated shapes• Live in soft mud, sand or under rocks• Slow• Slither like a snake• Examples: eels, sand lance

side view

Fins classified into paired and unpaired :

Paired : pectoral fins and pelvic fins

Unpaired : dorsal fins,anal,caudal fins