expose-the-light:

X-Rays of Fish Reveal Diversity

1. X-Ray Image of a Winghead Shark:

The distinctive form of a winghead shark, Eusphyra blochii, is revealed in an X-ray image. The shark’s eyes are spread far apart, giving it superb binocular vision.

2. X-Ray Image of a Long-Spined Porcupine Fish:

The robust oval, spine covered body of a long-spined porcupine fish, Diodon holocanthus, is revealed in this X-ray image.

3. X-Ray Image of a Monterey Skate:

An X-ray image of a Monterey skate, Raja montereyensis, reveals a spine that extends like a tail out from the pelvic fin. The skeletons of skates, rays, chimaeras, and sharks are made of cartilage, rather than bone.

CREDIT: © Sandra Raredon / Smithsonian Institution

4. X-Ray Image of a Longnose Butterflyfish:

An X-ray image of a longnose butterflyfish, Forcipiger longirostris, helps scientists study the fish’s complex bone structure.

CREDIT: Sandra J. Raredon / Smithsonian Institution