Built to Breathe Below the Surface
Fish live in water because their bodies are specially designed for it. Unlike people, fish don’t have lungs; they have gills. Gills let them take oxygen straight from the water as it flows over them. If a fish were on land, it wouldn’t be able to breathe, just like we can’t breathe underwater without help.
Swimming Through Their Perfect Home
Fish have smooth, slippery bodies and fins that help them glide through water easily. Water supports their bodies and helps them stay cool. Many fish also lay their eggs in water, where it’s safe and the temperature stays steady. Everything about a fish’s body, from its scales to its tail, is made for life underwater.
FAQs
Q: Can fish survive out of water?
A: Not for long. Most fish can only stay out of water for a short time before they stop breathing.
Q: Are there any fish that live on land?
A: A few rare fish, like mudskippers, can live both in water and on land for a while. But they still need moisture to survive.
