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Which five fish orders are included in the superorder Paracanthopterygii?
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paracanthopterygian
Oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau).
The superorder Paracanthopterygii is a diverse group of bony fishes that ichthyologists classify based on specific jaw musculature, caudal vertebrae structure, and pelvic fin placement. While classification remains a subject of ongoing study and is considered provisional, the superorder is currently divided into the following five orders:12
- Batrachoidiformes: Commonly known as toadfishes.1
- Gadiformes: An order that encompasses codfishes, including commercially important species like hakes, haddocks, and pollocks.1
- Lophiiformes: Comprised of the anglerfishes and goosefishes.1
- Percopsiformes: Known as trout-perches, these are the only members of the superorder restricted to freshwater environments.1
- Ophidiiforms: A group that includes pearlfishes and cusk-eels.1