Question

List the aquatic adaptations found in fish.

Answer 1

Aquatic adaptations found in fish:-

1. Fish have a body contour that is spindle-shaped and streamlined. This means that in most fish, the head and tail are narrower than the middle of the body. This helps them in movement by cutting through water easily. A fish has a tail that helps it to change directions while it is moving. The fins of the fish are adapted to maintain balance in the water.
2. Fish have slippery, protective scales on their bodies that help prevent decay in water and help in swift movement through the water.
3. Fish have gills that contain fine blood vessels that take up dissolved oxygen in the water for respiration and release carbon dioxide. A flap called operculum on each side of the head covers the gills and allows air to enter the gills.
4. Fish have a hollow outgrowth of the alimentary canal, called the air bladder or swim bladder, which functions as an organ of flotation and an accessory respiratory organ. The swim bladder works a little like a hot air balloon. The more oxygen it contains, the higher a fish will suspend or float in the water.
5. Fish have a special row of sense organs called the lateral line system extending the whole length of the body, which gives them the ability to hear low-frequency sounds. A fish's ears are located beneath the skin on either side of the head. The lateral line senses the pressure of water and is used to detect movement and vibration in water. The lateral line serves an important role in detecting prey or predators.