Fish Anatomy & Taxonomy

Orientation

Dorsal Fin Large fin on back that varies in size, shape and position Stabilizes fish

Pectoral & Pelvic Fin Pectoral Fins: Located on side of body – Used for steering & locomotion Pelvic Fins: Located on belly or under pectoral fins – Function in stabilizing & braking

Anal & Adipose Fin Anal Fin: Located on ventral side (underside) behind the pelvic fins Adipose Fin: Small fin located between the dorsal and caudal fin

Caudal Fin Caudal Fin: Tail fin that varies in shape, affecting the fish’s speed and buoyancy Used for propulsion

Mouth Mouth: The size and shape of a fish’s mouth indicates what they feed upon

Barbels Barbels: “Whiskers” near the mouth Used by bottom feeding fish to sense food

Some Hints Body more than 5x as long as broad Hinge of mouth Scales