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Perciformes

Perciformes, whose name literally means 'perch-shaped', are the most diversified and heterogeneous group of fishes and the order with the largest number of species among the vertebrates, accounting for up to 41% of all fish species according to the taxonomic classification used. The diversity of species within this order is so great that we will find species in both fresh and salt waters, in the vast majority of biotopes (open water, reefs, prairies, sand, mud, rocks, great depths, surface waters,...), and in all the seas and oceans of the earth.

Despite being an order difficult to define due to the absence of clear distinguishing characteristics, we can say that as a general rule perciforms have a dorsal and anal fin with the first rays transformed into sharp spines that vary in number depending on the families, genera and species; and the posterior portion of these fins with smooth rays. Generally the pelvic fins, which are located in a position between the throat and the belly, have a spine and up to 5 soft rays. The caudal fin usually consists of 17 or fewer main rays; while they have no adipose fin. The skin of perciforms is covered with scales. The size range of perciforms ranges from 7 millimeters for Schindleria brevipinguis to over 5 meters for the Atlantic blue merlin (Makaira nigricans).

The classification of perciforms is a rather controversial aspect, in which there have been numerous changes, and where genetic discoveries are allowing the reclassification of numerous families within and outside this order. Within the order perciformes the more than 2,200 different species are organized in 2 suborders (Percoidei, Notothenioidei), with 62 families (54 and 8 families respectively) and 365 different genera.

Given the variability of shapes, sizes and habitats in which the different species of perciforms live, it will not surprise us to know that the diet can be equally heterogeneous, finding species that feed exclusively on algae, planktonic microorganisms, invertebrates, other perciforms,...



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