A representative volume element based micromechanical analysis of a Bi-layered Ganoid Fish scale

The Mississippi Alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula) possesses a flexible exoskeleton armor consisting of overlapping ganoid scales used for predatory protection. Each scale is a two-phase biomineralized composite containing bio-modified hydroxyapatite (hard) minerals and collagen (soft) fibers. The protective layer consists of a stiff outer ganoine layer, a characteristic "sawtooth" pattern at the interface with the compliant bone inner layer....