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Basics of skin structure and function in elasmobranchs: a review
1Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany. wilfried.meyer@tiho-hannover.de
Journal of Fish Biology
|April 14, 2012
Summary
Shark and ray skin (elasmobranch integument) structure and function remain poorly understood. This review details their epidermis, dermis, scales, and sensory organs, contrasting them with bony fishes.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Ichthyology
- Comparative Anatomy
Background:
- The integument of bony fishes, especially teleosts, is extensively studied.
- In contrast, the skin structure and function of cartilaginous fishes like sharks and rays (elasmobranchs) are significantly less understood.
- This knowledge gap highlights the need for a comprehensive overview of elasmobranch skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a detailed description of the basic structural and functional features of shark and ray skin.
- To consolidate existing literature and present novel findings on elasmobranch integument.
- To offer a comparative perspective with the well-documented skin of bony fishes (Osteichthyes).
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of elasmobranch skin.
- Inclusion of unpublished findings from the authors' research.
- Detailed examination of skin layers: epidermis, dermis, scales, and sensory structures.
Main Results:
- Detailed characterization of the elasmobranch epidermis, including its cell types.
- Description of the robust dermis and its unique features.
- Analysis of specialized scales (dermal denticles) and their derivatives.
- Documentation of sophisticated sensory equipment within the integument.
Conclusions:
- Elasmobranch skin exhibits unique structural and functional adaptations.
- The epidermis, dermis, scales, and sensory organs play crucial roles in shark and ray biology.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complexities of elasmobranch integument, especially in comparison to teleosts.
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