Fish

Question 1

What are the key characteristics of fish?

Answer 1

Gills, Paired fins and scales

Question 2

What is the largest and most diverse group of fish?

Answer 2

Teleost (ray-finned fishes). 29000 species (96%!!)

Question 3

What features make sharks excellent active predators?

Answer 3

Torpedo shape body for speed Large olfactory organs for detecting chemicals Lateral lines – pick up vibrations Excellent vision (closer range) Electroreception Sharp teeth

Question 4

What are the key structural differences between cartilaginous and bony fish?

Answer 4

Bony Fish: Hard skeletons Swim bladder (or lungs) Operculum over gills Cycloid scales ‘D-shaped’ Cartilaginous fish: Dermal denticles scales– tooth-like Light cartilage skeleton Continuous swimming (no swim bladder)

Question 5

How do cartilaginous and bony fish maintain positive buoyancy?

Answer 5

Cartilaginous Fish: Light cartilage skeleton Low density squalene in liver Bony Fish Swim bladder aids buoyancy

Question 6

What are the major fins of fish and what is their function?

Answer 6

Dorsal fin: Balance and stay upright Caudal fin: moving forward Anal Fin: Balance Pectorial Fin: change direction, steering Pelvic: Steering