Ichthyology facts for kids

Ichthyology, also known as fish science, is a special part of zoology that focuses on studying fish. This includes all kinds of fish, like the ones with bones (Osteichthyes), those with cartilage instead of bones (like sharks and rays, called Chondrichthyes), and even fish without jaws (Agnatha). Scientists are always discovering new fish species! About 250 new types of fish are officially named and described every year. By October 2016, over 33,400 different fish species had been found and recorded.

The History of Fish Study

Fish were important to ancient cultures, appearing in their art like this Mimbres pottery.

This is the front page from an important book about fish by Peter Artedi, a famous early fish scientist.

People have been studying fish for a very long time, even since the Stone Age! It all started because humans needed to find food, make clothes, and create tools to survive. The very first "fish scientists" were hunters and gatherers. They learned which fish were best to eat, where to find lots of them, and when they were easiest to catch. These early discoveries were often shown in their amazing artwork.

A person who studies fish today is called an ichthyologist. These scientists help us understand fish, their homes, and how to protect them.

See also

In Spanish: Ictiología para niños