Terminology question

[pat8you]

Ok so i'm a bit confused what the difference is between shoal and a school.

Saw this in another thread which is what made me think to start this one.

Yes, a harem is a group of fish that shoal together and usually of the same species (think anthias)

can a harem refer to a school of fish as well or is there even any difference between the two.

Pat

 

[RogerMcAllen]

A shoal is a group a fish.

A school is a shoal that moves in unison (tetras, sardines, etc.).

 

[Innovator]

I agree with Roger and a harem usually refers to a specie-specific mating group limited in numbers and not an entire school of fish. An example is anthias with 1 male for every 3-4 females (give or take and more in the wild).