抄録
Light and electron microscopic identification and characterization of cells associated with goldfish scales were made with reference to their respective functions.The cells involved in the scale growth were classified into following four groups: small round cells surrounding the marginal osteoid zone, large flattened cells covering the calcifying osseous layer including those associated with the growth of ridges, cells found in the terminal of the groove, and cells forming laminae of the fibrillary plate.On the basis of their topography and fine structural characteristics, possible functions of the cells were discussed.A special attention was paid to the fine structure of the groove.The bottom wall of the groove was shown to be uncalcified and composed of randomly dispersed thick collagen fibers and of a densely packed substance.This feature supports the idea that it would give flexibility to the scale.
