Shark Skin Is Basically Nature’s Coolest Armor
Shark skin is a marvel of nature that has fascinated scientists and the general public alike. Covered in tiny scales known as dermal denticles or placoid scales, shark skin is a tough and durable surface that helps these formidable predators glide through the water with ease. The scales are made of dentin, a hard tissue similar to the material found in our own teeth, and are arranged in a pattern of overlapping plates. This unique structure creates a series of grooves and ridges on the surface of the shark’s skin, which reduces drag and increases the animal’s efficiency in the water. But that’s not all – these scales also serve as armor, protecting the shark from parasites and other skin irritations. (Smithsonian)