A comparative view of the fundamentals of the structure and function of fish skin

作者：Seegers Ulrike; Meyer Wilfried^*

来源：Kleintierpraxis, 2009, 54(2): 73-87.

• epidermis
• mucous cells
• bony scales
• Cyclostomata
• Chondrichthyes
• Osteichthyes

A comparative view of the fundamentals of the structure and function of fish skin
This publication gives a broad and comparative review of the structure and function of fish skin in the three large recent fish groups Agnatha (Cyclostomata), Chondrichthyes (Elasmobranchii) and Osteichthyes. In addition, important aspects of the biology of these animals are taken into consideration. The review is based on the evaluation of old and recent literature, and includes unpublished observations of the authors. The study contains original illustrations related to the different fish groups studied.
First, the separate skin layers are described, focussing on the epidermis and dermis. The epidermis represents a multifunctional part of the integument, with a continuously metabolically active epithelium that establishes contact with and protection against the environment. It consists of a monolayered stratum (str.) basale, the superimposed multilayered str. spinosum and the outer str. superficiale with its flat cells. The epidermis is characterized by a multitude of different types of secretory cells, with skein cells and goblet cells as the most prominent features. The underlying dermis has a superficial, thin str. laxum. This is followed by a relatively thick str. compactum, which contains the bony scales (Chondrichthyes: placoid scales; Osteichthyes: ganoid, cosmoid and elasmoid scales) in scale pockets. The evolution and development of bony scales is also referred to in connection with the latter stratum and its contents. The hypodermis is found directly adjacent to the somatic muscular system. The fat tissue of this layer is primarily important as an energy reservoir during the spawning season. Secondly, the basics of the innervation and the sensory properties of fish skin are discussed. Finally, information about skin pigmentation (types of chromatophores, colouration and patterning) and related functional aspects (e.g., colour change, behavioural consequences) are considered.

• 出版日期2009-2