Ever wondered why certain animals have scales? And what would these creatures look like without them? Well, the answer would be ‘weird.’ All the animals on this earth have received certain features and properties that have made their existence comfortable and easier. Similarly, animals with scales have evolved this way because of the environment’s demands, protecting animals against predators, and helping them maneuver over the weaker individuals in the food chain.
Moreover, scales aren’t just for looks and protection. But it is also present to help the animal maintain a normal body temperature. Also, animals with scales can easily camouflage. Thus, this can be witnessed in the case of crocodiles, non-poisonous snakes, and frogs. Also, the scales of every animal mean a different thing. Now, let’s talk about certain facts that describe the abilities of animals with scales.
5 Facts About Animals With Scales
1. Fish with Scales
The dermal scales of fishes are present on the mesoderm of their bodies. Adding to this, the scales of fish are made up of bones. Primarily, this scale’s main purpose is to protect and resist strong currents. The scales on the body of fishes are rather soft and allow the fishes to drift through the water, along with the ability to protect fishes from bacteria.
2. Reptiles with Scales
Reptiles are the most common creatures that can be seen with scales on their bodies. The scales on their bodies are made up of keratin. As researched, the scales in reptiles have a bit complicated structure. Looking deeper into it, the epidermal scales cover their entire body from the outside. Whereas the bony scales below the epidermis. In some reptiles, scales help in the retention of water. While in others, it is used for proper movement and slithering.
Also, read: 5 Arctic Animals That Could Vanish In Upcoming Years
3. Birds with scales
It might come up as a surprise that even birds have scales. When looked at with focus, birds have tiny keratin scales all over their legs.
4. Mammals with scales
Mammals aren’t well known to be the ones with scales. But, a few varieties do involve scales all over their bodies. These mammals have terrestrial scales. At length, the mammal to have scales are pangolins, which are covered by large, hard scales. Also, musky rat-kangaroos and scaly-tailed squirrels are known to have scales all over their tails.
5. Arthropods with scales
Arthropods consist of butterflies and moths. They have scales all over their wings. Along with the use in protecting the creatures against temperature differences, providing them with sun protection, and blessing them with the beautiful color of their wings.
The fun part here is that the scales of some poisonous creatures give them fluorescent color, which acts as a “Beware sign” for anyone walking past that animal.
Reading these things made it very evident that universe has special plans for everyone, and each individual or creature is made according to the purpose they have to fulfill in their lifeline.
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