Ice Fish (Channichthyidae)

Icefish, belonging to the family Channichthyidae, are unique Antarctic fish known for their ability to live in extremely cold, icy waters. Unlike most fish, they lack hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in blood, which makes their blood appear clear. To survive in such icy environments, icefish have adapted by developing antifreeze proteins that prevent their blood from freezing. They also have a high blood volume and large hearts to circulate oxygen efficiently. These special adaptations enable icefish to thrive in the harsh, frigid Antarctic ecosystem where few other fish can survive.