Scanning microscopy of surface structures of Tilapia mossambica (Peters) scales

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Abstract
Scanning microscopic observations were made of the surface structures of isolated scales of Tilapia mossambica (Peters). The circuli were found to form numerous minute processes called scalar denticles, which may act to secure the position of the scale with reference to surrounding dermal tissues. The skin covering the lunula of the scale includes a number of pores which are thought to represent the terminal openings of dermal mucous cells. This part of the skin also shows peculiar epidermal surface patterns. These surface patterns may be indicative of areas subject to increased mechanical stress.