Question

What are placoid scales used for?

Answer 1

Placoid scales:

1. Placoid scales, also known as denticles.
2. They are spiny tooth-like structures in cartilaginous fishes such as sharks, sting rays, etc.
3. They are rough to touch, and they are nearly impossible to penetrate.
4. They are chiefly bony and are covered with an enamel-like substance called ganoin.
5. Placoid scales differ from the cycloid scales (present in bony fishes) as the former is triangular and the latter are round and flexible

Function of placoid scales:

They serve to protect a fish from predators or even can injure or kill the prey.