Cypriniformes

Cypriniformes (/sɪˈprɪnɪfɔːrmiːz/) is an order of Ray-finned fish, including the carps, minnows, loaches and relatives. This order contains 11-12 families, over 400 genera, and more than 4,250 species, with new species being described every few months.

Etymology

The name "Cypriniformes" comes from the Greek words "kyprinos" (κυπρῖνος), meaning "carp," and "-formes," meaning "having the shape of." This refers to the carp-like shape of the fish in this order.

Taxonomy

Cypriniformes is the largest and most diverse order of freshwater fish. It is divided into two superfamilies: Cyprinoidea, which includes the carps, minnows, and their relatives; and Cobitoidea, which includes the loaches and their relatives.

Characteristics

Fish in the Cypriniformes order are typically small to medium-sized and are found in a wide variety of habitats, from small streams to large rivers. They are characterized by their lack of teeth in the mouth, instead having pharyngeal teeth.

Related Terms

Cyprinidae: The largest family in the Cypriniformes order, including carps and minnows.
Cobitidae: A family in the Cypriniformes order, including loaches.
Pharyngeal teeth: Teeth in the throat of fish, a characteristic of Cypriniformes.