Fish Skeletal System

Skull (Cranium)

Protects the brain and sensory organs (eyes, olfactory structures).

Maxilla & Premaxilla

Upper jaw bones that aid in feeding.

Mandible

Lower jaw bone responsible for mouth movement.

Operculum

A bony plate covering and protecting the gills.

Vertebral Column (Axial Skeleton)

Made up of vertebrae that provide support and flexibility.

Fin Rays (Lepidotrichia)

Bony or cartilaginous structures that support the fins.

Dorsal Fin

Helps maintain balance and prevent rolling.

Pectoral Fins

Assist in steering and maneuvering.

Pelvic Fins

Aid in stability and stopping.

Anal Fin

Helps with stability in swimming.

Caudal Fin (Tail Fin)

Provides propulsion for movement.

Pectoral Girdle

Connects the pectoral fins to the axial skeleton.

Pelvic Girdle

Supports the pelvic fins and aids in balance.

Ribs

Provide protection for internal organs and assist in body structure.

Intermuscular Bones

Small bones that contribute to body rigidity and flexibility.

Hypural

“Tail bone”, attached to fin ray

Neural and Hernal Spine

Top and Bottom tail “ribs”, respectively

Clavicle

Fish “shoulders”

Pelvis

Extends from front of fish

Girdle

Supports Fin Rays

Bones attaching outside fins

Radial Cartilage

Anterior and Posterior Dorsal Fins

Front and Back top fins