Question

What is the ctenoid scale?

Answer 1

Ctenoid scales:

1. Ctenoid scales are similar to cycloid scales, but they feature spines or comb like teeth along their free edges, and they are seen in higher bony fishes such as perches and sunfishes.
2. Scales of ctenoid fish defend the body from predators and other environmental factors.
3. Simultaneously, they provide enough flexibility for species-specific movement.
4. Catfish and some eels, do not have scales. Whereas, Perch-like fishes commonly have ctenoid (toothed) scales.
5. The small teeth on the scale's posterior border are known as Cteni. They are overlapping, similar to cycloid scales, allowing for more movement and flexibility than other forms of scales, such as ganoid scales.
6. A superficial 'bony' layer, formed of an organic framework impregnated principally with calcium based salts, and a deep fibrous layer, composed primarily of collagen, make up cycloid and ctenoid scales.

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