collection of items: poster of minnesota fish species, cards with fish pictures on them, and stuffed toy fish arranged neatly on table

Fish Families

Minnesota boasts 160 fish species (141 of which are native) grouped into 27 fish families (25 native). Scientists classify fish into families depending on physical characteristics, physiology, genetics, and evolutionary history. In this activity, students learn how fish are classified and about the number of fish families in Minnesota. In a group exercise, students learn the key physical characteristics of five important Minnesota game fish families.

Download the Lesson Plan

Credit: DNR MinnAqua Program - Get in the Habitat Leader's Guide

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