Gasterosteus - The Stickleback Fish with Prominent Bony Plates

Gasterosteus is a genus of fish in the family Gasterosteidae, commonly known as the sticklebacks. The name Gasterosteus comes from the Greek words "gastēr", meaning "belly", and "osteon", meaning "bone". This refers to the prominent bony plates that are found on the bodies of these fish.

Sticklebacks are small to medium-sized fish that are found in a variety of freshwater and marine habitats, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They are known for their distinctive body shape, which is characterized by a long, slender body and a prominent head with a pointed snout. They also have a distinctive set of bony plates that run along the length of their bodies, which provide protection from predators and help to maintain their body shape.

Sticklebacks are important components of many aquatic ecosystems, serving as both prey and predator for other fish and invertebrates. They are also popular among aquarium hobbyists and are often kept in home aquariums.