Plural of fish

[dharanija35]

what is the plural of fish?
what is teh male and female counterpart of a fish?

[BobK]

Originally Posted by dharanija35

what is the plural of fish?
what is teh male and female counterpart of a fish?

Fish or fishes, depending on context.

I've always said just 'male fish' and 'female fish', though I believe cognoscenti call them cock and hen - have a look at some fishing-related web-sites.

b

[MikeNewYork]

Originally Posted by dharanija35

what is the plural of fish?
what is teh male and female counterpart of a fish?

The most common plural of "fish" is "fish". However, "fishes" can be used when one is talking about different species of fish.

There are many fish in Lake Michigan (just a count of actual beings).
There are many fishes in Lake Michigan (many different species).

[curmudgeon]

I think they are just referred to as male or female. 'The female salmon lays here eggs in fast running water' The male salmon fertilises the eggs by spawning (I think, might be wrong about the mechanics but hopefully you get my drift)

So you could have a female dogfish I suppose. You wouldn't call it a bitchfish! (as in canines, for any of you sensitive souls)