About This Book
A systematic, accessible survey of fish anatomy and habits defines fishes as vertebrates that rely chiefly on gills and highlights the great variety of body shapes and appendages. It outlines the compact head–trunk–tail plan and the tail’s central role in propulsion, then examines unpaired and paired fins, their embryonic origin, the structure of fin rays and defensive spines, and the bony and cartilaginous supports and muscles that move them. Different tail architectures and fin placements are linked to function and development, and the account closes with observations on skin and external coverings.