Esociformes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Esociformes |
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| Northern pike (Esox lucius) | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Superorder: | Protacanthopterygii |
| Order: | Esociformes Bleeker, 1859 |
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Esociformes is a small group of fish. These fish are a type of ray-finned fish. This means they have fins supported by bony spines. There are two main families of Esociformes alive today. These are the Umbridae, also known as mudminnows, and the Esocidae, which are the pikes.
This group of fish also includes an extinct family. It is called Palaeoscidae.
About Esociformes
The Esociformes are an order of fish. In biology, an order is a way to group living things. It helps scientists organize different species. This order is part of a larger group called ray-finned fish. These fish are known for their unique fins.
Families of Esociformes
The Esociformes order has two main families that are still around.
- The Esocidae family includes the pikes. The name Esocidae comes from the pike genus Esox. One very well-known fish from this family is the Esox lucius. It is often called the northern pike.
- The Umbridae family includes fish known as mudminnows. These are generally smaller fish.
There was also an older family called Palaeoesocidae. But this family is now extinct, meaning all its members have died out.
Where Do They Live?
Esociform fish live in freshwater. This means they are found in rivers, lakes, and ponds. You can find them in different parts of the world. They live in North America and the northern parts of Eurasia. Eurasia is a large landmass that includes Europe and Asia.
Interesting Facts
The Esociformes order is quite similar to the Salmonidae order. The Salmonidae order includes fish like salmon and trout. This similarity shows how different fish groups can share common features. Scientists study these similarities to understand how fish have changed over time.
