Caspian Lamprey [Caspiomyzon wagneri]
Description
The Caspian Lamprey, scientifically known as Caspiomyzon wagneri, is a unique species of lamprey native to the Caspian Sea. This parasitic fish has a snake-like body and a round mouth filled with rows of teeth. Unlike other lampreys, it has a single dorsal fin. It spends most of its life in freshwater rivers and streams, migrating to the sea to reproduce. Adult lampreys attach themselves to host fish, feeding on their blood and bodily fluids.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Lampreys
Petromyzontida
|
| Order |
Northern Lampreys
Petromyzontiformes
|
| Family |
Northern Lampreys
Petromyzontidae
|
| Genus |
Caspian Lamprey
Caspiomyzon
|