There are around 573 species of fish in this order. They have flattened bodies and large, wing-like pectoral fins that are attached to the side of their heads and run the length of their body! They use their wing-like pectoral fins to propel themselves through the water. They have a very small or no caudal fin; no anal fin; and eyes on the top of their heads. They have five or six pairs of gill slits on their undesides and many species have long, thin, whip-like tails. Most species are found in the ocean, but some species are found in freshwater environments.
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