Overview of Aquarium Fish Physiology and Body Parts

Every aquarium owner should have a basic knowledge of the fish's body parts. It is important to know both what they are called and how they function. This article gives an overview of the parts of the body for aquarium fish.

Aquarium Fish Fins - Names and Locations

The dorsal fin is probably the most recognized aquarium fish fin. Many have heard this world in shark movies. The dorsal fin is the large fin in the middle of the fish's back. It can be very short or long depending on the fish species. Some fish also have adipose fins on their top. These are usually quite small and right next to the tail fin.

The tail of the fish is actually called the caudal fin. It extends from the caudal peduncle, which is the muscular base of the tale.

There are three possible fins on the bottom, or belly, of aquarium fish. The first, closest to the head, are the pectoral fins. These are usually small. Next, the pelvic or ventral fins come from the middle of the fish's belly. Finally is the anal fin. This is very close to the fish tail behind the anus.

Aquarium Fish Mouth Types

There are three types of aquarium fish mouths. The type of mouth a fish has depends on its feeding habits and where it lives in the aquarium.

The most usual mouth type is the terminal mouth. This mouth is directly on the end of the fish's head and points straight ahead. These fish are often mid-level swimmers who eat floating or swimming food.

Some fish have superior aligned mouths. These fish are top-level swimmers and usually eat floating food. This mouth is turned upwards and usually has a long lower jaw.

The bottom feeders have inferior mouths. Like catfish, their mouths turn downward with a small lower jaw.

Aquarium Fish Tail Types

The styles, shapes, and sizes of aquarium fish tails are widely varied. However, there are six main types of tail shapes.