The Cartilaginous FishClass: Condrichthyes

Sharks, Rays, Skates, and Chimaeras

Michael SlonkoskyKyle MoranMatt Gregory

Cartilaginous Characteristics

-Jawed Fish-Paired Fins-Paired nostrils-Two Chambered Heart-Cartilage Skeleton

External Anatomy of Shark

External Anatomy of Ray

Placoid Scales

-Tough Skin Covering-Dermal Teeth/Denticles-Continue towards mouth -Specialized Version: Teeth

Reproductive System

Skate or Ray?

Differences-Reproductive strategies.

- Rays: live bearing (viviparous) - Skates are egg laying (oviparous)

-Appearance- Skates have a prominent dorsal fin - The dorsal fin is absent or reduced in rays - Most rays are kite-shaped with whip-like tails containing barb - skates have fleshier tails and lack spines. - rays are generally much larger than skates. - Skates have small teeth - Rays have plate-like teeth for crushing prey.

-ProtectionRays : stinging spines or barbs skates : thorny projections on their backs and tails

Chimaeras