Why do fish have scales?

Answer: Protection and smoother swimming

To store nutrients — Wrong. Scales don't store nutrients. Fish store energy in their liver and muscles, not in their scales which are made of bone-like material.

For temperature regulation — Wrong. Fish are cold-blooded and regulate temperature through behavior, not scales. Scales primarily serve protection and hydrodynamic functions.

Protection and smoother swimming ✓ — Correct! Fish scales act like armor, protecting against predators and parasites. They also overlap to reduce drag, helping fish glide smoothly through water. Some scales even provide camouflage!