Paddlefish
Paddlefish
Paddlefish (pronunciation: /ˈpædəlˌfɪʃ/), also known as spoonbill, is a type of fish that belongs to the family Polyodontidae. The name "paddlefish" is derived from the elongated, paddle-like snout these fish possess.
Etymology
The term "paddlefish" is a combination of the words "paddle" and "fish", referring to the distinctive, paddle-shaped snout of this species. The term "spoonbill" is also used, again referring to the shape of the snout, which resembles a spoon or bill.
Description
Paddlefish are large freshwater fish that are native to North America. They are characterized by their long, paddle-shaped snouts, which are used to detect food in murky waters. Paddlefish are filter feeders, consuming primarily zooplankton. They are known for their large size, with some individuals reaching lengths of over 5 feet.
Species
There are two recognized species of paddlefish: the American paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) and the Chinese paddlefish (Psephurus gladius). The American paddlefish is found throughout the Mississippi River Basin, while the Chinese paddlefish, now believed to be extinct, was native to the Yangtze River in China.
Conservation Status
Paddlefish populations have been declining due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. The Chinese paddlefish is believed to be extinct, while the American paddlefish is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Paddlefish
- Wikipedia's article - Paddlefish
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