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Placoid Scale |
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Placoid Scale
a scale characteristic of cartilaginous fishes. It consists of a flat base (the basal plate), a neck, and a crown. Inside each scale there are several pulp canals or a cavity filled with pulp. A placoid scale is formed of dentin; its tip is covered with a harder, enamel-like vitrodentin. The scale originates between ectoderm and mesoderm, and, as it develops, it breaks through the ectoderm and emerges as a spine. Its formation is complete when the basal plate forms in the mesoderm. The placoid scale is constantly replaced during the life of a fish. In the evolution of vertebrates, the placoid scale precedes the more complexly structured ganoid scale. The teeth of vertebrates are derivatives of placoid scales. Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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