Osteichthyes
Osteichthyes
Osteichthyes (/ˌɒstiːˈɪkθi.iːz/), also known as bony fish, are a taxonomic group of fish that have bony, as opposed to cartilaginous, skeletons. The vast majority of fish are members of Osteichthyes, which is an extremely diverse and abundant group consisting of 45 orders, and over 435 families and 28,000 species.
Etymology
The term "Osteichthyes" is derived from the Greek "osteon," meaning bone, and "ichthys," meaning fish.
Classification
Osteichthyes are divided into two classes, the Actinopterygii, or ray-finned fish, and the Sarcopterygii, or lobe-finned fish. The latter includes the tetrapods, which are the four-limbed vertebrates, including humans.
Anatomy
Osteichthyes are characterized by a bony skeleton with a spine. They also have gills, most have scales, and all have paired fins, which are the defining features of fish. The vast majority of Osteichthyes are ectothermic, or cold-blooded.
Related Terms
- Actinopterygii: The class of ray-finned fishes, a sub-group of the Osteichthyes.
- Sarcopterygii: The class of lobe-finned fishes, another sub-group of the Osteichthyes.
- Tetrapods: The four-limbed vertebrates that are classified under the Sarcopterygii.
- Ectothermic: Referring to organisms that regulate their body temperature largely by exchanging heat with their surroundings.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Osteichthyes
- Wikipedia's article - Osteichthyes
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