Fish muscle is the tissue responsible for movement, and it has a specific structure. It is composed of segments called myotomes, which are divided by thin connective tissue membranes known as mycommata.
Understanding Fish Muscle Structure
Here's a breakdown of the key components:
- Myotomes: These are the individual muscle segments that run along the length of the fish. Think of them like the sections of a loaf of bread, each section being a myotome.
- Mycommata: These are thin connective tissue membranes that separate the myotomes. They act like the dividers between the slices of bread, giving the fish structure.
- Muscle Fibers: Within each myotome, muscle fibers run parallel to the fish's long axis. These fibers are relatively short, typically less than 20 mm long, and are very thin, ranging from 0.02 to 1 mm in diameter.
Key Features Summarized
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Myotomes | Muscle segments running along the fish’s body |
| Mycommata | Connective tissue membranes dividing myotomes |
| Muscle Fibers | Found within myotomes, aligned with the fish's long axis |
| Fiber Length | Typically less than 20 mm |
| Fiber Diameter | Ranging from 0.02 to 1 mm |
Practical Insight
This segmentation allows for efficient movement and flexibility in the water. The myotomes contract sequentially, which enables the fish to propel itself through the water with undulatory movements. The mycommata allow the muscle to bend and flex.
