SHARK SKIN'S DESIGN ...

Shark skin when viewed under an electron microscope.

These scale like formations are called dermal denticles, and they cover the bodies of all sharks. They share an evolutionary origin with vertebrate teeth. Like teeth, each denticle has a central pulp cavity supplied with blood vessels, and an outer layer of an enamel like substance. Studies have found that these denticles reduce drag, and make sharks more efficient swimmers.