Penetrating Piscine Patterns: X-Rays Reveal What's Beneath Fishes' Scales [Slide Show]

Features | More Science

A new exhibition at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History reveals the complex structures within fish

By Ann Chin ?| February 1, 2012

PRICKLY PUFF: When the long-spine porcupine fish pumps water into its stomach, it becomes round with bristles to ward off predators. Image: Sandra J. Raredon/Division of Fishes, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution

X-rays of fish skeletons that scientists use to study evolutionary development are now displayed as art. A new exhibition at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History will feature 40 x-rays of sea creatures laid out in evolutionary sequence. X-Ray Vision: Fish Inside-Out?showcases the work of the museum?s scientists. X-rays allow researchers to study fish structures without dissections. The exhibition opens to the public on February 4 and runs until August 5. ?

For a preview of X-Ray Vision: Fish Inside-Out, view this slide show.

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