Chapter 35: Problem 3
The presence of a bony skeleton, an operculum, and a swim bladder are all defining characteristics of a. Myxini. b. lampreys. c. Chondrichthyes. d. bony fishes. e. amphibians.
Short Answer
Expert verified
The taxonomic group identified by these characteristics is 'bony fishes' - also known as Osteichthyes.
Step by step solution
01
Identify Characteristics
Start by understanding the defining characteristics provided in the question - a bony skeleton (an internal structure that offers support and shape), an operculum (protective flap that covers the gills of fishes), and a swim bladder (an inflatable sac in some fish species used to maintain buoyancy).
02
Review Taxonomic Groups
Review each of the given taxonomic groups. The Myxini (hagfish), lack a proper vertebral column making them not a match. Lampreys are jawless fish and lack a bony skeleton. The Chondrichthyes includes sharks and rays, which have skeletons made of cartilage, not bone. Amphibians, while having bony skeletons, don't possess swim bladders, as these are specific to fish.
03
Match Characteristics to Taxonomic Group
The only group left is, therefore, 'bony fishes'. This group (also known as osteichthyes) is characterized by a bony skeleton, an operculum, and often a swim bladder, making them the best match given the characteristics in the question.
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Bony Skeleton
The bony skeleton is a unique feature that sets bony fishes, or Osteichthyes, apart from other aquatic vertebrates. Unlike their counterparts with cartilage-based structures, bony fishes have an internal framework made of calcium-rich bones.
This robust structure provides greater support and protection to their bodies, enabling them to withstand various underwater currents and environments. A few key points about bony skeletons:
This robust structure provides greater support and protection to their bodies, enabling them to withstand various underwater currents and environments. A few key points about bony skeletons:
- Strength and Durability: The bones are tough and can endure pressures that the softer cartilage cannot.
- Shape and Support: The skeleton helps maintain the fish's body shape, supporting muscles and allowing for efficient movement.
Operculum
An operculum is a bony flap that serves as a protective cover over the gills of bony fishes. Its presence ensures that these vital respiratory organs are shielded from physical damage and reduces water flow resistance.
Key functions of the operculum include:
- Protection: Keeps delicate gills safe from debris and predators.
- Efficient Respiration: By operating a back-and-forth movement, it helps draw water over the gills, facilitating oxygen exchange.
- Streamlining: Contributes to a smooth body surface, reducing drag when the fish swims.
Swim Bladder
The swim bladder is a remarkable adaptation found in many bony fish species. This gas-filled sac lies within the fish's body cavity and plays a crucial role in buoyancy control, allowing the fish to maintain its position in the water column without constant swimming.
Here’s how it works:
- Buoyancy Control: By adjusting the amount of gas (often oxygen) in the swim bladder, fish can sink or rise in the water.
- Sound Production and Reception: In some species, the swim bladder also helps in producing sounds and can act as a resonating chamber for hearing.
Taxonomic Groups
Understanding the primary taxonomic groups of fishes helps in classifying and identifying different species based on selected features. Taxonomy gives a structured way to categorize fish into groups or "classes" based on similarities and evolutionary traits.
For instance, consider the main fish groups:
- Myxini (Hagfish): Jawless fish, lack a true vertebral column, and possess a flexible, cartilage-based body.
- Lampreys: Similar to hagfish but have rudimentary vertebral elements and are also jawless.
- Chondrichthyes: This group includes sharks and rays, which have skeletons made of cartilage, not bone.
- Osteichthyes: Known as "bony fishes," they have a true bony skeleton, operculum, and often a swim bladder.
- Amphibians: While they do have bony skeletons, they lack the aquatic adaptations like a swim bladder that are specific to fishes.
Osteichthyes
Osteichthyes, commonly known as bony fishes, are the largest class of vertebrates, encompassing a diverse array of species that possess defining characteristics like a bony skeleton, operculum, and often a swim bladder.
Key characteristics of Osteichthyes include:
- Bony Skeleton: Provides structural support and protection.
- Operculum: A protective flap covering the gills, aiding in efficient respiration.
- Swim Bladder: Aids in buoyancy control, allowing for energy-efficient movement in water.
- Diverse Habitats: From freshwater streams to oceanic depths, bony fishes inhabit a wide range of aquatic environments.