Most fish have both skin and scales. Scales are small, rigid plates that grow out of the skin of a fish and overlap each other. They provide protection from predators, parasites, and other injuries, and also help the fish move more easily through the water.
What is the fish skin called?
The skin of most fish is composed of multiple layers of protective scales, which are called “epidermal scales”. These scales are made up of a hard outer layer called “ganoin”, which is a type of keratin, and a softer inner layer called “cosmine”.
Do all fish have scales?
Most fish do have scales, though there are some exceptions. For example, all the clingfishes (family Gobiesocidae) are scaleless. Additionally, some species of fish may have scales that are so small they can barely be seen. The Torah requires that Kosher fish must have both scales and fins. Scales provide a layer of protection to the fish and also help in the regulation of body temperature.
What fish have skin not scales?
Fish that have skin instead of scales include catfish, sharks, rays, chimaeras, skates, moray eels, sturgeons, paddlefishes, salifin blennies, combtooth blennies, redtail catfish, zebra catfish, tiger sorubim, and some species of eels. These fish have different layers of substance over their skin, such as mucus or denticles, instead of scales.
Are fish scales part of the skin?
Yes, fish scales are part of the skin. Fish scales are small, rigid plates that grow out of the skin of a fish. They are made of bone from the deeper, or dermal, skin layer, and act as a shield against predators, disease and habitat changes.