FISH FACTS presents fundamental scientific and market data concerning the most commercially important fish and shellfish in North America in an easy-to-use, clear, and concise format. The basic biological facts of North America's marine and freshwater fishes have been combined with current market and statistical information to provide the reader with a portrait of the various species that comprise one of our most valuable and renewable resource industries. This is the first time that the major commercial species have been matched with their approved market names as designated in The Fish List, the United States Food and Drug Administration's guide to acceptable market names. While many books provide identifica- tion under one or two names, Fish Facts supplies the market name, scientific designation, and many common names and aliases, along with major international recognitions, so mistaken identifications will be minimized. Common confusions in terminology and species identification have been isolated so that readers know what to look for. Identification is also enhanced by the use of illustrations. Included are the basic facts on habitat, fishing methods, life cycles and growth, present and potential utilization, landings information, and average annual prices to fishermen. Important facts and subjects of particular commercial or biological interest have been highlighted. Marine finfish, freshwater fish, and shellfish are each presented in alphabetical order according to their recognized market names. All species are indexed by market name, common names, scientific designation, and their most commonly used aliases.