S07 → N400

The Spike of Fascinating & Unexpected





SPIKE 38
→ FISH SCALE.



© 1. Joshua Jo/Shutterstock / 2. The Tweed Foundation — scale “readings” / 3. unknown — Messina Straits Argyropelecus hemigymnus, this deep sea hatchetfish has scales which reflect blue light / 4. Michael W. Davidson/The Florida State University — Ctenoid Fish Scale / 5. Josef Reischig — Fish scale 300x / 6. Dennis Kunkel Microscopy/Science Photo Library — Amatitlania nigrofasciata fish scale / 7. Evident — Ctenoid fish scale / 8. Josef Reischig — Fish scale 600x / 9. Nature’s Workshop Plus — Dogfish Placoid scale / 10. Jean-Marie Cavanihac — cycloid scales: some species’ scales can have pigmentation dots, for example, on rainbow trout / 11. Jean-Marie Cavanihac — cycloid scales: smelt / 12. Jeff Rotman/Photolibrary/Getty Images — Shark placoid scales.
 

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Fish scales are small, overlapping structures that can come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the species and habitat of the fish. They serve as a protective layer, revealing intriguing aspects of fish biology and their evolutionary adaptations. Most fish scales are made of a tough, protein-based material called keratin, which is also found in human hair and nails. The scales are typically arranged in rows along the fish’s body, overlapping like shingles on a roof. This arrangement allows for flexibility and movement while providing a strong, durable layer of protection. The shape and structure of fish scales can vary widely among different species. Common types of fish scales include cycloid scales, which are round or oval-shaped with smooth edges, and ctenoid scales, which have comb-like projections along their edges. There are, in fact, four main types of fish scales: placoid, cosmoid, ganoid, and cycloid or ctenoid. Each type provides different benefits, such as enhanced protection, reduced water resistance, or improved flexibility. For example, the placoid scales of sharks are small, tooth-like structures that reduce drag and turbulence, allowing sharks to swim efficiently and swiftly through the water. This hydrodynamic feature inspired the design of swimsuits for competitive swimmers, mimicking the drag-reducing properties of shark skin.

One intriguing aspect of fish scales is their role as a historical record of a fish’s age and growth, akin to the rings of a tree. Under a microscope, the growth rings on a fish scale can reveal not just the fish’s age but also the environmental conditions it encountered throughout its life, providing valuable insights for scientists. Moreover, the protective layer of slime on fish scales, serving as a defence mechanism against parasites and infections, underscores their crucial role in maintaining the fish’s health and well-being.

Some fish scales have even found unique uses outside the aquatic world. For example, in certain cultures, fish scales are used in the production of iridescent jewellery and decorative items due to their shiny and reflective properties. Furthermore, research has shown that fish scales can inspire technological advancements; their structure has influenced the development of lightweight, flexible, and strong materials used in modern engineering and design. In the culinary realm, fish scales have an interesting role as well. In some cuisines, they are fried and consumed as a crunchy snack, showcasing the diverse ways in which different parts of the fish are utilised.




→  Sourced from: SYSTEM 04 (Poutchka Patrol)
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