Japanese icefish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Japanese icefish |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Salangichthys
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| Species: |
microdon
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The Japanese icefish, known scientifically as Salangichthys microdon, is a small, see-through fish. It belongs to a group of fish called icefish. You can find these fish in the waters around Japan, Korea, and the Russian Far East.
This species is special because it's the only member left in its scientific group, or genus, called Salangichthys. It used to share its genus with another fish, but that one was moved to a different group. The Japanese icefish is quite small, usually growing to about 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) long. Even though it's tiny, people catch it for food, and it's important in commercial fishing in these regions.
Where Do Japanese Icefish Live?
Japanese icefish can live in different types of water. Some of them live in salty ocean water, but they travel to fresh water, like rivers, to lay their eggs. This journey is called migration, and fish that do this are known as anadromous.
Other Japanese icefish don't migrate. They spend their whole lives in water that is a mix of fresh and salt water, called brackish water, or sometimes only in fresh water. Both types of icefish can be found living in the same areas at different times.
Why Are Japanese Icefish Important?
Even though they are small, Japanese icefish are considered a valuable food source. They are caught by people for eating, and this supports local fishing industries. This makes them an important part of the food chain and the economy in the areas where they live.
See also
In Spanish: Pez de hielo japonés para niños
