Which of the following fishes has ganoid scales?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (a) Acipenser
Explanation:
→ Acipenser (sturgeons) possess ganoid scales—thick, rhomboid, enamel-like scutes.
→ These scales provide strong protection and represent primitive fish integument.
→ Widely used as a taxonomic character in identifying ancestral lineages.
Information Booster:
→ Ganoid scales are composed of ganoin, a hard shiny layer.
→ Decline of sturgeons due to overfishing and habitat loss.
→ Seen also in gars (family Lepisosteidae).
Additional Information (Other Options):
(b) Mrigal, (c) Catla – cycloid/ctenoid scales (teleosts).
(d) Anabas – ctenoid scales.