Latilidae

Latilidae is a family of ray-finned fish belonging to the order Perciformes. The family contains a single genus, Lates, and includes several species commonly known as giant perch or Nile perch. These fish are found in tropical freshwater and brackish waters of Africa and the Indo-Pacific region.

Members of the Latilidae family are characterized by their large size, elongated bodies, and prominent dorsal fins. They are carnivorous predators, feeding on other fish and invertebrates. The most well-known species is Lates niloticus, the Nile perch, which can grow to over two meters in length and is a popular food fish in Africa. However, its introduction to Lake Victoria in the mid-20th century has had a devastating impact on the lake's native cichlid populations.

Other species in the genus Lates include Lates calcarifer (barramundi) and Lates plunketi. Barramundi is also an important commercial and sport fish, found in coastal waters and estuaries from the Persian Gulf to Australia. The family Latilidae is of significant ecological and economic importance, but also highlights concerns regarding invasive species and their impact on biodiversity.