More than 25,000 species of fish inhabit the Earth's
rivers, lakes and oceans.
Fish have more recognized species than any other vertebrate and
their habitats range from the smallest freshwater streams to the deepest
seafloor canyons. They grow from a fraction of an inch to 50
feet and live anywhere from the artic waters to the
tropics. Fish skeletons can either be cartilaginous or bony, a category that
includes the vast majority of fish.
They can be found in nearly all aquatic environments, from high mountain streams. Fish are an important resource for humans worldwide, especially as food.
Fish have had a role in culture through the ages, serving asdeities, religious symbols, and as the subjects of art, books and movies.
