Questions and Answers
What are cartilaginous fish?
Two classes of fish that have skeletons made of cartilage rather than bone.
What do sharks, rays, and chimaeras have that is unique?
Jaws and a cartilaginous skeleton.
What features distinguish sharks from bony fish?
Skeleton of cartilage, lack of a swim bladder, and a complex reproductive system.
Which animal is known for having one of the keenest senses of smell in the animal kingdom?
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What are spiracles?
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Which animal is responsible for more injuries to people than all other species of fish combined?
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What are chimaeras?
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Which two fish have slimy scaleless bodies and lack jaws?
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Study Notes
Cartilaginous Fish Overview
- Cartilaginous fish belong to two classes that possess skeletons composed of cartilage instead of bone, providing flexibility.
Key Characteristics
- Sharks, rays, and chimaeras are identified by possessing jaws and a cartilaginous skeleton.
- Distinctive features of sharks include a skeleton of cartilage, absence of a swim bladder, and a complex reproductive system, differentiating them from bony fish.
Shark Attributes
- Sharks exhibit one of the most acute senses of smell within the animal kingdom, enhancing their predatory capabilities.
Breathing Mechanism
- Rays utilize spiracles, which are specialized openings located just behind their eyes, for respiration.
Stingray Hazards
- Stingrays are responsible for more injuries to humans than all other fish species combined, highlighting the need for caution when encountering them.
Chimaeras
- Chimaeras consist of nearly 30 unique species of cartilaginous fish that inhabit the ocean floor, exhibiting unusual adaptations for their environment.
Jawless Fish
- Lampreys and hagfish, unlike cartilaginous fish, are characterized by their slimy, scaleless bodies and lack of jaws, showcasing a distinct evolutionary lineage.
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Description
Test your knowledge on cartilaginous fish with this quiz! Explore key characteristics, including their unique skeletons made of cartilage and reproductive systems. Perfect for biology students diving into the world of sharks, rays, and chimeras.
