Raytiniai

Raytiniai, also known as the Ray-finned fish, are a group of fish that make up the class Actinopterygii. They are characterized by their fins supported by rays, which are bony or cartilaginous elements that extend from the body and provide support for the fin membranes. This class includes a wide variety of fish, ranging from small, freshwater species to large, marine predators. Ray-finned fish are further divided into two subclasses: Neopterygii, which includes most modern ray-finned fish, and Holostei, which includes the gar and bowfin.

The Neopterygii subclass is the more diverse and includes several orders, such as the Lepisosteiformes (gar and bowfin), Acipenseriformes (sturgeons and paddlefish), and the Teleostei (bony fish), which is the largest group of ray-finned fish and includes species like salmon, tuna, and goldfish. The Teleostei order is further divided into many families and suborders, reflecting the vast diversity of bony fish.

Ray-finned fish have a single nostril on the top of their head and a lateral line system, which is a series of sensory pores along the sides of their body. This system helps them detect vibrations and changes in water pressure, aiding in navigation and prey detection. They also have a swim bladder, an organ that helps them control their buoyancy in the water.

Ray-finned fish play a crucial role in marine and freshwater ecosystems. They are a significant food source for many predators and are also important for human consumption and recreational fishing. However, many species of ray-finned fish are threatened or endangered due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these valuable fish and their habitats.