Bone shield

Set of nested plates (modified scales), covering the skin, especially in catfish.

The bone shield is an anatomical structure present in certain species of fish, in particular cichlids. This structure is a thickening of the skin and muscles located at the back of the head of the fish, above its spine.

The bone shield is generally clearly visible and can be of different sizes and shapes depending on the species of fish. It is often more developed in males than in females, and can be used for defense, the nuptial parade and to impress other fish.

In some cichlids, the bone shield is used to protect the head from the fish during fights with other fish from its species or different species. It can also be used to protect fish when it feeds or digs in the aquarium substrate.

The bone shield is formed by strengthening the skin and muscles that develop over time thanks to exposure to steroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands of fish. In some cichlids, the bone shield can be very imposing and extend over the entire length of the fish head.

It is important to note that the bone shield is not really made up of bone, but rather connective tissues and cartilage. However, it can be very hard and solid, and can be used as an effective weapon to defend yourself against predators or other aggressive fish.

As aquariophiles, it is important to take into account the presence of a bone shield from the fish that we choose for our aquarium. Some fish with a developed bone shield can be more aggressive and may need a larger aquarium to be able to flourish. It is also important to provide a suitable substrate and maintain the aquarium well to avoid damage to the bone shield of fish.