SPECIES INFO
Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) is found in the western Atlantic. Although it has been found as far north as Cape Cod and as far south as Argentina, the main portion of its range is in the Caribbean Ocean. This fish can swim up rivers, and has navigated the Panama Canal and has now been found in the Pacific Ocean. This is a popular sport fish, and the shallow waters around Florida lure sport fishermen from afar to attempt to land one of these silver kings. Although the average size is about 5 feet long and perhaps 30 to 40 pounds, records go over 8 feet long and 300 pounds. Although this fish is not considered good eating, it is considered a prime sport fish for its spectacular runs and jumps when hooked.The tarpon family (Elopidae) contains the well known tarpon and also the several species of various ladyfish.
The Elopiformes order contains two families of fish. These fish are considered very primitive. The tarpon family is known for it namesake, the tarpon, which is a prized sport fish. The Albulidae family is known for its single species of bonefish also known as a great sport fish.
Bony fish, Class Teleostomi, are a class of chordates that include the majority of fish-like animals found on earth. They are characterized by a bony jaw and a bony skeleton. They are found in both fresh and marine waters.
Backboned Animals (Phylum Chordata) are the most advanced group of animals on earth. These animals are characterized by having a spinal cord or backbone. Most members have a clearly defined brain that controls the organism through a spinal cord. Fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals are in this phylum.
Currently, some taxonomists believe that the fish should be divided into two groups (sharks and regular fishes) and that there are some other primitive groups in the phylum such as hagfish or lampreys.
Animal Kingdom contains numerous organisms that feed on other animals or plants. Included in the animal kingdom are the lower marine invertebrates such as sponges and corals, the jointed legged animals such as insects and spiders, and the backboned animals such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
