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The Journal of Heredity 1942:33(5):191-199
© 1942 The American Genetic Association 33:191-199

research-article

TYPES OF FUR FIBERS

THORA M. PLITT HARDY, and JOHN I. HARDY

Assistant Microanalyst, Fish and Wildlife Service, U. S. Dept. of the Interior
Senior Animal Husbandman, Bureau of Animal Industry, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture

Abstract

For the microscopic examination of fur fibers two colorless media (synthetic plastics) have been found useful for permanent mounts, and two liquids for temporary mounts. Study of the pigmentation or of the cuticular scales may be favored by choice of refractive indices.

Microscopic examination of prime silver fox and of mink pelts led to the conclusion that three main types of fibers contribute materially to the quality of furs. These are the underfur fibers, the regular guard hairs, and the "single" guard hairs. The three types of hairs were studied for general characteristics, such as relative lengths, form, and color, as well as specific characteristics, such as the features of their surface structure and relations to each other in the follicles. Specialized hairs are present in the tail gland and in a tuft near the navel.

Impressions of the surface structure of the fibers were made on thermoplastic films by a modification of the original method. This modification was necessary to prevent the crushing effect on the thicker fibers. These impressions reveal features of surface structure in certain parts of the hairs that are characteristic for certain types of fibers and for different species of animals.


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