Operculum is a bony plate covering gills of________.

Options

A. bony fishes
B. cartilaginous fishes
C. all fishes
D. tadpole

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Term "Operculum":**
- The operculum is a bony plate that serves as a protective cover for the gills in certain aquatic animals.

2. **Identifying the Types of Fish:**
- There are two main types of fish: bony fish and cartilaginous fish.
- Bony fish include species like the catla, rohu, and tilapia, while cartilaginous fish include sharks and rays.

3. **Analyzing Bony Fish:**
- Bony fish possess an operculum that covers their gills. This structure protects the gills from debris and helps in respiration.

4. **Analyzing Cartilaginous Fish:**
- Cartilaginous fish do not have an operculum. Their gills are exposed, which allows for efficient water flow and gas exchange in saltwater environments.

5. **Considering Other Aquatic Organisms:**
- Tadpoles, which are the larval stage of frogs, do not have an operculum. They belong to the amphibian category and have a different respiratory system.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the analysis, the operculum is specifically found in bony fish.

**Final Answer:** Operculum is a bony plate covering gills of **bony fish**.

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