Teleosták

Teleosták are a group of ray-finned fish that belong to the class Actinopterygii. The term "teleost" was first coined in the 19th century by the British anatomist Sir Richard Owen, and it comes from the Greek words "teles" (far) and "osteon" (bone), referring to the fact that their skeletons are composed of cartilage in some areas and bone in others.

Teleosták are characterized by their streamlined bodies, excellent swimming abilities, and a wide range of sensory organs, including eyes, ears, and a highly sensitive lateral line system. They are one of the most diverse groups of fish, with species that vary greatly in size, shape, and color, ranging from the tiny Philippine goby to the massive ocean sunfish.

Teleosták have adapted to a wide range of aquatic environments, including tropical coral reefs, temperate deep-sea environments, and even freshwater habitats. Many species are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs, while others exhibit complex courtship behaviors, indicating a high degree of social complexity.

From an evolutionary perspective, teleosták emerged around 170 million years ago, and their success can be attributed to their advanced sensory systems, advanced brain structures, and their ability to occupy a wide range of ecological niches. Today, teleosták make up about half of all known fish species, with over 25,000 described species worldwide. Their ability to thrive and diversify has made them one of the most fascinating and abundant groups of fish in the world.