Final answer:
Catfish, perch, pike, and trout are part of the ray-finned fish group, which have distinguishing fin structures supported by bony rays and constitute about half of all vertebrate species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ray-Finned Fish
Types of fish such as catfish, perch, pike, and trout belong to a larger group known as ray-finned fish. This diverse group is characterized by having a bony endoskeleton and fins that are supported by long, thin rods known as rays. In total, ray-finned fish encompass a wide variety of species, which make up about half of all vertebrate species.
The fins of ray-finned fish are particularly notable in this class, as they are constructed of webs of skin stretched over flexible bony spines or rays. These fishes do not have muscles in their fins; instead, movements are controlled by the muscles in the main body. This distinctive structure allows for various methods of locomotion in water.
The diverse group includes successfully adapted freshwater and marine species such as bass, salmon, goldfish, and many others.
Actinopterygii, another name for ray-finned fishes, includes a wealth of well-known fish like tuna, salmon, and trout. This group showcases the wide-ranging adaptability of fishes in different aquatic environments, from streams and rivers to open seas.