Bony Fish

Bony fish are the largest group of vertebrates on Earth. From tiny guppies to giant tuna, they thrive in oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Unlike cartilaginous fishes, like sharks, which have skeletons made of flexible cartilage, bony fish have hard bones. This gives them a strong body and helps them move smoothly through the water.

Bony fish are divided into two classes: ray-finned fish and lobe-finned fish.

Ray-finned fish, like salmon and goldfish, have thin, flexible fins supported by bony spines.

Lobe-finned fish, like coelacanths or lungfish, have thick, fleshy fins that resemble limbs.

Most bony fish also have a special organ called a swim bladder. Like a built-in life jacket, it helps them stay at the right depth without constantly swimming.

Another feature in the bony fish is the operculum, a bony flap that covers their gills. This allows them to breathe even while staying still.

Unlike most other fish, bony fish can see in color. This helps them find food, avoid predators, and recognize other fish.