BONY FISH

"The bony fishes are the most diverse group of vertebrates. About 25,000 species are known, but scientists believe thousands more remain to be discovered. Fishes are important members of food chains in both marine and freshwater ecosystems, and they have developed an amazing variety of life styles and body forms. Commercial populations of marine fishes are under severe threat from over fishing. Thousands of species inhabiting the world's coral reefs are also endangered because of over fishing and the use of poisons and explosives such as dynamite. In freshwaters many species have become extinct because of loss of habitat or from the introduction of exotic species. Fishes provide humanity with countless benefits, particularly as a major source of food for millions of people. It is therefore critical that every effort be made to protect their habitats and prevent over exploitation."