Elops
fish genus
Quick Summary
The genus Elops refers to a group of ray-finned fishes belonging to the order Elopiformes, which are considered primitive bony fishes. These fish are closely related to tarpons and are commonly known as ladyfishes.12
Key Characteristics of Elops
- Appearance: Ladyfishes are slender, pikelike, and covered in fine silver scales. They have small, sharp teeth and a bony throat plate.2
- Habitat: They are primarily tropical coastal marine fish, though adults can enter brackish or fresh water.12
- Size: Ladyfishes typically grow up to about 1 meter (3 feet) in length and can weigh up to 13.6 kg (30 pounds).12
- Diet: They are predatory fish, feeding mainly on other fishes.1
- Reproduction: Ladyfishes spawn close to shore, and their young are transparent and eellike.12
- Fossil Record: The family Elopidae, which includes Elops, has a fossil record extending back to the Jurassic Period.1
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