ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Estuarine fish

Estuarine fish are fish that live in areas where saltwater (from oceans or seas) and freshwater (from rivers or streams) mix together.

Imagine a big bowl filled halfway with saltwater and the other half with freshwater. This is like an estuary - it's a special type of habitat where the two types of water meet. Estuaries can be found where rivers and streams meet with the ocean, or even in bays or lagoons where water currents can create a mixture of both types of water.

Fish that live in estuaries must be able to handle changes in the water's salt content. They have adapted in many ways over time to be able to survive and thrive in this unique environment. Some of them have special organs to help them regulate the amount of salt in their bodies, while others can change the way they breathe in order to tolerate different levels of oxygen in the water.

Estuarine fish are important because they serve as a source of food for many types of animals, including humans! They also have an important role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of insects and other small creatures. So next time you're near an estuary, keep an eye out for these amazing creatures!