Cyclostome facts for kids
The cyclostomes are a special group of fish that includes the lamprey and hagfish. They are the only two types of living jawless fish left on Earth. This means they don't have jaws like most other fish you know!
Quick facts for kids Cyclostomes |
|
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| (unranked): | |
| Superclass: |
Cyclostomata
|
Contents
Meet the Cyclostomes: Jawless Wonders
Cyclostomes are truly unique creatures in the animal kingdom. They are part of a very old group of fish called the Agnatha. Unlike most fish, cyclostomes do not have jaws. This makes them very different from sharks, tuna, or even your pet goldfish!
Two Unique Fish
There are about 100 different species of cyclostomes. These include various kinds of lampreys and hagfish. Even though they look a bit different, scientists have studied their DNA. This research shows that lampreys and hagfish are very closely related. They both came from the same ancient group of jawless fish.
Hagfish: Vertebrates Without Backbones
Hagfish are especially interesting. They are considered vertebrates, which means they are animals with a backbone. However, adult hagfish do not actually have a backbone (or vertebrae). Scientists believe that hagfish might have lost their backbones over a very long time. This happened as they adapted to their unique way of life.
Their Special Mouths
The name "Cyclostomata" gives us a big clue about these animals. It means "round mouths." If you look at a lamprey or hagfish, you'll see why! Their mouths are round and do not have jaws. This means they cannot close their mouths like we do.
Because their mouths are always open, they have a special way of breathing. Water constantly flows through their mouths and over their gills. This helps them get the oxygen they need to survive. It's a very different way of life compared to fish with jaws!
