Carangiformes

Carangiformes is an order of ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii) within the superorder Acanthopterygii. The group includes many species commonly known as jacks and their relatives. They are primarily marine fishes inhabiting warm-temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, with some species entering brackish waters and rivers. Members are typically medium to large, streamlined, and laterally compressed, with a deeply forked caudal fin that enables fast, enduring swimming.

Locomotion in Carangiformes is characterized as carangiform: propulsion arises mainly from the posterior portion of the body, especially the tail, while the anterior body remains relatively stiff. This mode supports rapid bursts and sustained cruising, suitable for chasing prey and covering large ranges. Their fins are usually well-developed for maneuverability and stability in open water.

Ecology and life history: Carangiform fishes are largely pelagic predators, feeding on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Many species form schools and undertake migrations, some covering vast distances. They occupy a variety of habitats from coastal bays and reefs to open-ocean pelagic zones. Several species are targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries and are valued for their meat and sport potential.

Taxonomy and systematics: The precise composition of Carangiformes has varied with advances in phylogenetics. The order comprises several families of fast-swimming, predatory fishes, most notably the family Carangidae (the jacks and pompanos) and related lineages recognized by different taxonomic systems. Some schemes place certain relatives in adjoining orders, reflecting ongoing changes in the understanding of evolutionary relationships among teleosts.