What do seawater fish look like?

Seawater fish come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, and colors, making it impossible to give a single description! But here are some common characteristics that distinguish many saltwater fish:

General Appearance:

* Streamlined bodies: Many seawater fish have streamlined bodies that help them move easily through water.

* Fins: They have a variety of fins for swimming, steering, and stability.

* Scales: Most seawater fish have scales, which are tiny bony plates that cover their skin.

* Gills: Seawater fish breathe through gills, which extract oxygen from the water.

Coloration:

* Bright colors: Some seawater fish are brightly colored, using their colors for camouflage, communication, or attracting mates.

* Camouflage: Many species have colors and patterns that help them blend in with their surroundings.

* Biofluorescence: Some fish emit their own light, a phenomenon called biofluorescence, which can be used for communication, attracting prey, or deterring predators.

Specific Examples:

* Clownfish: These fish have bright orange bodies with white stripes. They live in anemones, which protect them from predators.

* Angelfish: These fish have beautiful, often vibrant colors and are known for their unique shapes.

* Sharks: These cartilaginous fish have a sleek, torpedo-shaped body and sharp teeth.

* Tuna: These fast-swimming fish have a streamlined body and powerful muscles.

* Eels: These fish have long, serpentine bodies that allow them to move through narrow spaces.

To really understand the diversity of seawater fish, you need to see them in person or explore images online! Websites like National Geographic, BBC Earth, and the Smithsonian Institute provide stunning visuals of the incredible variety of saltwater fish.