Fish

The order Beloniformes comprises a group of acanthopterygian (spiny-finned) fishes that primarily inhabit the surface waters of tropical and subtropical seas, estuaries, and rivers. This group includes species characterized by their elongated, streamlined bodies, adapted for rapid movement near the surface.

The order Mugiliformes comprises around 75 known species. They are medium-sized fish with elongated, fusiform bodies, adapted for fast swimming.

The order Characiformes comprises more than 2,200 described species of freshwater fish from Central America, South America, and Africa. They are characterized by their laterally compressed bodies, well-developed fins, and a wide variety of striking colors and patterns.

The order Cichliformes comprises more than 1.700 species of fish distributed primarily in freshwater environments of tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Central and South America. In Ecuador, several species inhabit rivers, lagoons, and coastal systems, adapting to a wide variety of aquatic habitats.

The order Clupeirormes comprises more than 400 species. They are marine and freshwater fish with elongated and compressed bodies, shiny silver scales, and a characteristic gregarious behavior, forming large schools.

The order Cyprinodontiformes is composed primarily of freshwater fish, although some species inhabit brackish or even marine waters. They are small, elongated fish that are usually found in shallow areas, ponds, or slow-moving streams.

The order Elopiformes includes fish characterized by their elongated, slender bodies covered in silvery scales. They are medium-sized fish that can reach up to 1 meter in length.

The order Gymnotiformes includes the electric fish of South America. They are characterized by their elongated, laterally compressed bodies, lacking a dorsal or pelvic fin, giving them a distinctive silhouette similar to a blade or knife.

The order Perciformes constitutes the most diverse group of fish and, in fact, the largest among all vertebrates, with nearly 11,000 species representing about 40% of known fish species.

This order is characterized by its laterally flattened body and by having both eyes on the same side of the head, a unique adaptation that allows them to live lying on sandy or muddy bottoms.

This order is a very diverse group, with over 1200 species distributed in the Americas and around 3000 worldwide. They are easily recognized by their sensory barbels, which resemble a cat's whiskers and allow them to detect food in murky or dimly lit waters.

The order Synghathiformes is known for its unique and delicate appearance. They have elongated, slender bodies covered in bony rings that provide rigidity and protection, as well as a small, tubular mouth adapted for sucking in tiny crustaceans and plankton.