Ladyfish (Elops surus) is found in the western Atlantic from southern New England south to mid Brazil. It is also found near shores in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. This silver fish can grow to about 4 feet in length. This silver fish has a large mouth and a large eye and the tail is almost symmetrical. The top of the dorsal fin is concave. This is a popular sport fish known for its leaping ability. Although this fish is commercially caught and sold, it is not considered a delicacy.

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.

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