Talk:Fish locomotion

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since fish locomotion is mainly about locomotion in water, shouldn't we include dolphin's mode of move about? And, what about the locomotion of squids, shrimps, octupuses? Xah Lee 23:00, 2005 May 5 (UTC)

[edit] The role of scales in fish locomotion?

I observe that when salmon skin is stretched the scales become erect, presenting a very rough surface to the water. When the skin is relaxed, the scales return to become flush with the body presenting a streamlined surface. I suggest that it is not only the wiggle that propels the fish, but also the effect of this property of the skin/scales that may account for the efficiency of fish, such as the salmon, swimming up stream against powerful currents. The effect of the scales suggests a rowing motion, which could be activated by the stretching and contraction of the skin during the wiggle motion. I am totally ignorant of this subject and the literature so perhaps someone could add a better description of this, with appropriate citations, if indeed it is the case that scales play this role in locomotion? I apologise if somehwere in this article this has already been mentioned. Fenton Robb 21:53, 26 January 2007 (UTC)

I have made some enquiries about this and the following response from an expert seems pretty conclusive - "I am sorry that I am not able to provide evidence relating to your hypothesis. However it is worth bearing in mind that the skin of salmon (and other fish) is covered by a protective mucous membrane. It could be argued that this layer would prevent the scales achieving purchase against the surrounding water. In other words it might be like trying to row a boat covered in a plastic bag." Fenton Robb 18:29, 29 January 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Dolphin locomotion?

What about the movement of Cetacea? I wonder why they move their tails up and down instead of from side to side like fish. --84.189.124.169 (talk) 19:16, 2 January 2008 (UTC)