- The mandible and maxilla move in a coordinated, hinging motion to open and close the mouth, allowing the fish to grasp or ingest food.
- Yes, this fish has teeth; they are typically small, pointed structures located on the jaws (maxilla and mandible) and sometimes on other oral bones, adapted for gripping prey.
- The operculum functions as a protective bony flap that covers and shields the delicate gill filaments from physical damage and predators while allowing water to flow over the gills for respiration.
- On the gill filaments, gas exchange occurs: oxygen dissolved in the water diffuses into the blood capillaries within the filaments, while carbon dioxide waste diffuses out from the blood into the water, which is then expelled as the fish ventilates its gills.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of fish dissection worksheet.
