Research Article Open Access

Hair Shaft Anatomy of Mammals: A Comprehensive Overview

Abstract

Hair is composed of root and shaft of which latter was an epidermal outgrowth consisting of outer cuticle, middle cortex and inner medulla. The cortex was non-cellular and the medulla was cellular made up of cornified cells. The features of guard hair vary from species to species which is an important tool in identification of species. Analysis of hair is an easy method which is used in forensic medicine, zooarchaeology, anthropology and ecology. Wild animals are being pouched and killed for their meat, skin, tusks etc. The cuticular pattern, medulla type and cortex pattern are species specific which are the main features that helps in differentiating the animal species. Animal hair examination at a criminal scene may provide valuable information in forensic investigations.

Vinayasheela S*, Purushotham G

To read the full article Download Full Article