TED-ED: Why are fish fish-shaped? - Lauren Sallan

The video explores the diverse motion mechanisms in fish, highlighting their evolutionary adaptations. Fish are categorized into two main groups based on their motion: body and caudal fin driven, and median and paired fin driven. The former group includes species like eels and tuna, which use their bodies and tails for propulsion. The latter group, including rays and reef fish, relies on fins for movement. The video also discusses outliers like seahorses and pufferfish, showcasing the evolutionary success of these adaptations across thousands of species.

What is the maximum distance a flying fish can glide using its wing-like fins?

• 300 meters

• 400 meters

• 200 meters

• 100 meters

Which group of fish primarily uses their body and tail for propulsion?

• Body and caudal fin driven motion group

• Thunniform swimmers

• Median and paired fin motion group

• Ostraciiform species

Which type of fish uses about two-thirds of their body mass to generate motion?

• Ostraciiform species

• Carangiform swimmers

• Subcarangiform swimmers

• Anguilliform swimmers

What is the primary advantage of median and paired fin motion in fish?

• Streamlined shape

• Increased body mass

• Efficient navigation in complex habitats

• High-speed swimming

How do seahorses use their dorsal fins?

• To glide through the air

• For high-speed swimming

• As makeshift tails

• To dig into the sea floor