Pronunciation: [dˈɛntɪkə͡lz] (IPA) 
The word "denticles" is spelled with the letter "c" instead of "k" because it comes from the Latin word "dens" (tooth), which is pronounced with a soft "c" sound in Classical Latin. In English, the word is pronounced with a hard "c" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /k/, followed by the vowel sound /ɪ/ and the consonant sound /lz/. Denticles are small tooth-like projections found on the edges of coins and other objects.
Denticles is a term most commonly used in biology, particularly in reference to the structures found in certain marine animals, such as sharks and certain types of fish. It refers to small, pointed or tooth-like structures that are present on their skin or scales. Denticles are typically arranged in rows or ridges, and they serve various functions depending on the species.
In sharks, denticles are particularly notable as they cover the skin entirely, giving it a rough texture. These skin denticles provide several advantages for the shark, including reducing drag while swimming by preventing turbulence, enhancing maneuverability, and providing protection against predators. Their structure also aids in conserving body heat and may help in sensing changes in the surrounding water.
In other fish species, such as certain types of bony fish like sturgeons, denticles can be found on their scales. These specialized scales with denticles offer similar advantages, contributing to increased hydrodynamics during swimming.
Outside of the realm of biology, denticles can also refer to small notches or projections on the edge of an object. In numismatics, for instance, denticles are small tooth-like shapes that can be found along the edge of some coins to prevent wear.
Overall, denticles are small, tooth-like structures found on the skin or scales of various animals, serving a range of functions such as reducing drag, enhancing maneuverability, protecting against predators, and aiding in sensory perception.
The word "denticles" has a Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "dentīculus", which means "small tooth". The Latin term "dentīculus" is a diminutive form of "dens", meaning "tooth". Thus, "denticles" is derived from the Latin root "dens" and the suffix "-culus", which denotes something small or diminutive.
