Observations on the Structure of the Skin of the Teleost Fundulus heteroclitus (L)

Morphological and histochemical observations were realized on the body and fin skin of the teleost Fundulus heteroclitus. Attention was called to the following aspects:1. The presence and origin of a continuous mucous layer covering the superficial epithelium.2. The presence and characteristics of peculiar ridge-like structures on the superficial epithelium.3.The occurence of the so called “chloride cells” in this animal's epidermis.4. The presence of a cushion-like mucous connective tissue layer between the epidermis and the scales.5. An analysis of the scale's structure and its position in the dermis was performed.The functional significance of the above-mentioned structures is discussed.