"Fish"
* As a singular noun: When referring to one fish, use "fish."
* Example: "I caught a big fish."
* As a plural noun: When referring to multiple fish *of the same type*, use "fish."
* Example: "There are lots of fish in the lake."
"Fishes"
* As a plural noun: When referring to multiple fish *of different types*, use "fishes."
* Example: "The aquarium displays many exotic fishes."
In simpler terms:
* "Fish" is usually the plural form unless you're talking about different types of fish.
* "Fishes" emphasizes the variety of fish.
Here are some examples:
* "Fish" (same type): I saw a school of fish swimming by.
* "Fishes" (different types): The scientist studied the different fishes in the coral reef.