What is a group of fish called?

Lungfish

Lungfish are a fascinating group of freshwater ray-finned fish, notable for possessing both gills and lungs, hence their name. They are found in Africa, South America, and Australia, representing a living link to the evolutionary transition from aquatic to terrestrial vertebrates.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Evolutionary%20Significance">Evolutionary Significance</a>: Lungfish are considered to be the closest living relatives of tetrapods (amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals). Their ability to breathe air and their fleshy, lobed fins provide clues to how early vertebrates may have transitioned from water to land.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Physical%20Characteristics">Physical Characteristics</a>: Lungfish have elongated, eel-like bodies. Some species possess filamentous pectoral and pelvic fins that they use for locomotion along the substrate. Their scales are embedded within the skin, giving them a smooth appearance.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Respiratory%20System">Respiratory System</a>: Lungfish have developed one or two lungs depending on the species, which are connected to the esophagus and used to breathe air. They also possess gills, which they use for aquatic respiration, particularly when dissolved oxygen levels are high.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Estivation">Estivation</a>: African and South American lungfish are well-known for their ability to survive prolonged periods of drought by entering a state of dormancy called estivation. They burrow into the mud, secrete a mucous cocoon to prevent water loss, and slow their metabolism until the rains return.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Diet">Diet</a>: Lungfish are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of prey including crustaceans, mollusks, insects, and small fish. They may also consume plant matter.

  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Conservation%20Status">Conservation Status</a>: The conservation status of lungfish varies depending on the species. Some species are threatened by habitat loss and overfishing.