What characteristic defines the scales covering most wrasse bodies?
Answer
Ctenoid, possessing small, tooth-like projections
The scales covering the bodies of most wrasses are specifically identified as ctenoid. This scale type is distinguished by having small projections, often described as tooth-like, along their edges. These projections are believed to contribute to the streamlining of the fish's body shape. This contrasts with other scale types found in various fish families, such as the smoother cycloid scales or the more heavily armored placoid scales. The ctenoid nature of the scales is a consistent physical marker noted for members of the Labridae family.
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