Fish Scale
Fish Scale
A Fish Scale (pronunciation: /fɪʃ skeɪl/) is a small, rigid plate that grows out of the skin of a fish. The skin of most fishes is covered with these protective scales, which can also provide effective camouflage through the use of reflection and colouration, as well as possible hydrodynamic advantages.
Etymology
The term "Fish Scale" originates from the Old English fisc and scealu, meaning "fish" and "shell" respectively.
Types of Fish Scales
There are four main types of fish scales:
- Cycloid scales: These are smooth and round, and are common in fishes such as salmon and carp.
- Ctenoid scales: These have a rough texture and are found in fishes like bass and crappie.
- Ganoid scales: These are diamond-shaped and are found in fishes like sturgeons and gars.
- Placoid scales: These are small and tooth-like, and are found in sharks and rays.
Related Terms
- Dermis: The layer of skin beneath the epidermis where fish scales grow.
- Epidermis: The outermost layer of skin in fish, which covers the scales.
- Chromatophores: The pigment-containing and light-reflecting cells in fish scales that give them their colour.
- Mucus: A slimy substance produced by fish skin that covers the scales and protects them from parasites and infections.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fish Scale
- Wikipedia's article - Fish Scale
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