Fish can grow to immense sizes, with the largest species reaching astonishing dimensions. Based on realistic estimations, a maximum size of 22 m (72 ft) and 25–30 tons has been deemed achievable for the largest fish species.
This incredible size represents the upper limit for fish growth, primarily attributed to the largest types of fish found in the world's oceans.
Largest Fish Species
While the 22m, 30-ton figure represents the absolute maximum size, it's important to note distinctions within the fish kingdom. The very largest fish are typically cartilaginous fish, such as certain species of sharks, rather than bony fish.
Largest Bony Fish
Among the vast diversity of bony fish, the sizes attained are also impressive but generally smaller than the absolute largest cartilaginous species. According to information regarding the most massive bony fish:
- The beluga sturgeon (Huso huso), native to the Caspian and Black seas, is considered the largest extant (living) bony fish.
- The beluga sturgeon is noted as the only extant bony fish to rival the massiveness of the ocean sunfish. While not reaching the 22m, 30-ton scale of the largest overall fish, these species represent the peak size for bony fish.
Here's a quick look at the scale:
| Fish Type | Example Species | Maximum Realistic Size Estimate (Length) | Maximum Realistic Size Estimate (Weight) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall (incl. Cartilaginous) | (Not explicitly named, likely Whale Shark) | Up to 22 m (72 ft) | Up to 25–30 tons | Represents absolute largest fish. |
| Largest Bony Fish | Beluga Sturgeon, Ocean Sunfish | (Rivals in massiveness) | (Rivals in massiveness) | Largest within the bony fish group. |
In summary, while the largest bony fish like the beluga sturgeon are massive, the absolute champions of size in the fish world, capable of reaching lengths of over 20 meters and weighing tens of tons, are found among other fish groups, notably the cartilaginous species.
