: In these species, the scales are often modified into large, bony plates called scutes rather than a full body covering.
: Each scale consists of three distinct layers: a bony basal layer, a middle layer of dentine (similar to human teeth), and a hard, enamel-like outer layer called ganoine . ganoid fish
: Due to their thick, bony nature, these scales make the fish's body relatively rigid compared to more modern teleost fish. Representative Living Species : In these species, the scales are often
: Found in Africa, these fish are some of the most primitive living ray-finned fishes. Representative Living Species : Found in Africa, these
: Unlike the overlapping "shingle-like" scales of common fish, ganoid scales are rhomboidal and connect via peg-and-socket joints . This creates an interlocking, nearly impenetrable surface that is highly resistant to predators.