Vertebra Fish

Fish vertebra (lat. v. piscaria) is one of the sections of the fish spine. It consists of several (usually 3-5) fused vertebrae and provides support for the dorsal and anal fins.

The fish vertebra has the shape of a semicircle. Its upper arch carries the spinous process, and the lower arch carries the costal process. Between the arches there is an opening for the spinal canal. Muscles that control the movements of the fins are attached to the vertebral bodies.

Different species of fish have different numbers of fish vertebrae. For example, pike has 5-6, carp has 3, herring has up to 15. The more vertebrae in a fish vertebra, the longer and more mobile it is. This is due to the lifestyle of specific fish.

Thus, the fish vertebra performs an important supporting and motor function, ensuring the mobility of the dorsal and anal fins of fish.