False color electron microscope images of denticles (IMAGE)

University of California - Santa Barbara

False color electron microscope images of denticles

Caption

Spikey, ridged scales reduce drag in swift-swimming sharks, while thicker, rounder scales offer protection from abrasion. The three-pronged scale on top may serve a defensive function. False color electron microscope images of denticles (not to scale); clockwise from upper left: lemon shark, tiger shark, great hammerhead shark, nurse shark, bull shark, and scalloped hammerhead shark.

Credit

ERIN DILLON, AARON O'DEA AND JORGE CEBALLOS

Usage Restrictions

For Use with Credit

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.