The next time you go fishing, snorkeling or to the aquarium, look closely at the variety of fish you see. Why do they have different body shapes, mouths, colors and patterns? 

Each species is adapted for survival while serving a specific role in the environment. For example, largemouth bass have torpedo-shaped bodies and huge jaws so they can swim fast and gobble up prey. Although bluegill are relatively slow, their vertical disk-shaped bodies and stripes keep them well camouflaged while poking through vegetation.

Also, if you observe a catfish searching for food on the bottom, you’ll see the advantage of its flat belly.   

WILD Facts is a regular feature written by Linda May, a wildlife interpretive specialist with the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division.