The skin: The many functions of fish integument

Diane G. Elliott

doi:10.1016/b978-0-12-374553-8.00285-9

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The skin: The many functions of fish integument

Diane G. Elliott

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Abstract

The integument or skin is the envelope that not only separates and protects a fish from its environment, but also provides the means through which most contacts with the outer world are made. It is a large organ and is continuous with the linings of all body openings, and also covers the fins. Fish integument is a multifunctional organ, and its components may serve important roles in protection, communication, sensory perception, locomotion, respiration, ion regulation, excretion, and thermal regulation.

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Diane G. Elliott. 2011. The skin: The many functions of fish integument. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-374553-8.00285-9

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