Scale

A scale is a horny scale containing keratin and air bubbles. The scale is formed as a result of keratinization of epidermal cells.

Keratin gives the scales rigidity and protects the underlying tissue. Air bubbles in the scale reduce its density and contribute to waterproofing.

Many animals have scales, including fish, reptiles and some mammals. They perform a protective function, protecting the skin from mechanical damage, infections, and dehydration. In fish and reptiles, scales also participate in the hydrodynamics of the body.

The size and shape of the scales vary depending on the type of animal. Fish scales are usually thin, closely overlapping each other. In reptiles, the scales are larger and partially overlap each other. Some mammals (armadillos, porcupines) have thick horny scutes.

Thus, scales are an important element of the skin of many animals, performing protective and hydrodynamic functions.

Scale is a horny scale that is formed as a result of keratinization of epidermal cells. It contains keratin and air bubbles, which gives it special strength and elasticity. In this article we will look at what a scale is, how it is formed and what its role is in the life of humans and animals.

Scales form on the surface of the skin of animals and humans. They serve as protection from environmental influences, retain moisture and prevent heat loss. Each scale is made up of several layers, including the stratum basale, which produces new cells, and the stratum corneum, which makes up the scale itself.

The stratum corneum consists of keratin, a strong protein material that is formed as a result of the death of epidermal cells. Keratin has high strength and elasticity, which allows the scale to effectively protect the skin.

In addition, the scales contain air bubbles, which give them additional lightness and elasticity. This is especially important for animals that live in water, as scales help them swim.

Scales may have different structures and functions in different animals. For example, in fish, scales are arranged in rows and serve as protection against injury and disease. Some reptiles, such as snakes, have smooth or keeled scales, which help them move on various surfaces.

Human skin also contains scales that form on the surface of the stratum corneum of the epidermis. They play an important role in protecting the skin from harmful environmental influences such as ultraviolet rays and chemicals.

In addition, the condition of the scaly skin may indicate a person’s health. For example, dry and flaky scales may indicate an imbalance of moisture in the skin or the presence of skin diseases.

In conclusion, scales are an important element in protecting the skin of animals and humans. They are formed as a result of keratinization of epidermal cells and contain keratin and air bubbles. Knowledge of the structure and function of scales helps to understand how animals adapt to their environment and also helps to care for human skin.

Scale (also known as Scale) is a horny scale that is formed as a result of keratinization of epidermal cells. It contains keratin and air bubbles that help it perform its functions.

The scales can be found on the surface of the skin, hair and nails. In human skin, scales are located in the top layer - the stratum corneum, which consists of keratinized cells. They help protect the skin from harmful environmental influences such as UV rays and toxins.

In addition, scales can also perform other functions. For example, in fish, scales help them move through the water, protect them from injury, and prevent water loss. In some insects, scales serve to deceive predators, protect against their attacks, and attract mates during reproduction.

Scales can have different shapes and sizes, depending on their functions and location. For example, in fish the scales can be large and tightly adjacent to each other, while in insects they can be small and arranged in several layers.

In general, scales are an important part of many living organisms, which helps them survive in various conditions and protect themselves from harmful environmental influences.

Scales are small horny formations that cover our skin, appearing due to the keratinization of epidermal cells (the upper layer of skin) that have lost the ability to divide (that is, have slowed down their division). The formed epithelial plates fall off, new ones form in their place, thus forming a protective and breathable film