Modicus (fish) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Modicus (fish)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Actinopterygii
Order:	Gobiesociformes
Family:	Gobiesocidae
Subfamily:	Gobiesocinae
Genus:	Modicus Hardy, 1983
Type species
Modicus minimus Hardy, 1983

Modicus is a group of small clingfishes. These fish are special because they are found only in the waters around New Zealand. This means they are "endemic" to that area, living nowhere else in the world!

What Makes Modicus Fish Special?

Modicus fish have some unique features that help scientists tell them apart from other similar fish.

• They have special comb-like structures called gill rakers that are well-developed. These help them filter food from the water.
• Their pectoral fins (the fins on their sides, like arms) have clear rays, which are like the bones or supports inside the fin.
• Their teeth are grouped together at the front of their jaws. Each jaw can have up to two strong, pointed teeth called canines.
• The lower jaw has a single row of teeth that curve backward.
• They have special structures called gill filaments on their first three gill arches, which are part of their breathing system.
• Their gill membranes (thin tissues covering the gills) are joined in the middle with a part of their body called the isthmus.
• One of their most interesting features is their sucker. This is a double disc formed by their joined pelvic fins (the fins on their belly). They use this sucker to cling tightly to rocks or other surfaces, even in strong currents!

Types of Modicus Fish

Currently, scientists know about two different species (types) of Modicus fish:

• Modicus minimus Hardy, 1983
• Modicus tangaroa Hardy, 1983

See also

In Spanish: Modicus para niños