Classification of Fishes PPT Presentation Download

Fishes are an incredibly diverse group of aquatic animals that form a significant part of the vertebrate population. They are primarily classified based on their anatomical, physiological, and evolutionary characteristics. Here’s a detailed classification:

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Classification of Fishes PPT Presentation Download

Agnatha (Jawless Fishes)

Agnatha includes primitive, jawless fishes. They have elongated, eel-like bodies and lack paired fins and scales. Their skeletons are cartilaginous. Examples include lampreys and hagfishes. These fishes are mostly scavengers or parasites and are considered the most ancient group of vertebrates.

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Chondrichthyes (Cartilaginous Fishes)

Chondrichthyes are characterized by their cartilaginous skeletons, which provide flexibility and lightness. They possess well-developed jaws, paired fins, and placoid scales. Sharks, rays, and skates are prominent members of this class. These fishes typically have gill slits and lack a swim bladder, relying on oil-filled livers for buoyancy.

Osteichthyes (Bony Fishes)

Osteichthyes is the largest class of fishes, comprising species with skeletons made of bone. They have a swim bladder for buoyancy and gills covered by an operculum. This class is divided into two subclasses:

Actinopterygii (Ray-Finned Fishes)

Ray-finned fishes have fins supported by bony spines or rays. They exhibit great diversity in size, shape, and habitat. Examples include salmon, goldfish, and tuna.

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Sarcopterygii (Lobe-Finned Fishes)

Lobe-finned fishes have fleshy, lobed fins that are joined to the body by a single bone. This group includes coelacanths and lungfishes. They are of evolutionary significance as they gave rise to amphibians.

Key Features for Classification

Fishes are also classified based on other features like habitat (marine or freshwater), body shape, and feeding habits. These classifications help in understanding their ecological roles and evolutionary relationships.