Fish have shared characteristics such as having scales, a backbone, and breathing through gills, which define them as a group. While many fish lay eggs, not all do, but the essential traits listed in option C are universally applicable to fish. Thus, the correct answer is option C.
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All fish share certain common characteristics that distinguish them from other animals, especially within aquatic environments. Let's explore these common features:
Backbone : Fish are vertebrates, which means they have a backbone or spinal column. This backbone supports their body and protects their spinal cord.
Scales : Many fish are covered with scales, which are small, hard plates that overlap each other and protect the fish's body. However, not all fish have visible scales, but those that do use them as a line of defense.
Gills : Fish breathe through gills. These are specialized organs located on either side of a fish's head used to extract oxygen from waterβa crucial adaptation for life in aquatic environments.
Among the given options, the correct answer is C. Fish have scales, a backbone, and breathe through their gills .
Understanding these key characteristics helps in identifying and classifying fish, providing insight into their biology and adaptations to life in water. Fish are an essential part of aquatic ecosystems and display remarkable diversity across different species.