Fish Diseases and Management

2.2.2.4 Dermis

Dermis is composed of two layers, the stratum spongiosum and stratum compactum. Stratum compactum is a dense network of collagenous matrix which provides the structural strength to the skin. Stratum spongiosum on other hand is a loose network of collagen and reticulin fibres containing the pigment cells, mast cells and cells of the scale beds and also the scales.