title: Shark skin: a function in feeding.
abstract: Dermal denticles are unique tooth-like structures embedded in the skin of sharks and rays that protect them from predators and ectoparasites, reduce mechanical abrasion and possibly minimize swimming-induced drag. Here, we show that juvenile lesser spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) also use this body armour to anchor food items near their tail so that bite-sized pieces can be torn away by rapid jaw and head movements. This scale-rasp behaviour is novel among fishes and suggests a new role for skin in the feeding ecology of sharks. Scale rasping may be important ecologically because it could function to increase the dietary breadth and growth potential of juveniles.
authors.affiliation: Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB, UK.
authors.forename: E J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Southall
authors.forename: D W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Sims
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004284:Dogfish / Q000502:physiology*; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D013623:Tail / Q000502:physiology