feathers
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Biology
Hyperspectral imaging technology illuminates a bird’s colorful feathers
Photo of a magnificent bird of paradise specimen. Credit: Image_1: Magnificent Bird of Paradise inset photo: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Magnificent_Bird-of-Paradise_0A2A2180.jpg JJ Harrison, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by- sa/4.0 /deed.en Image_1: Photo of magnificent bird of paradise specimen: David Ocampo, personal permission. From the shimmering appearance of a peacock’s tail to the distinctive rosettes of a jaguar’s fur, animals display an incredible variety of colors and patterns. Quantifying…
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Biology
Study provides molecular insight into sexual dimorphism in chicken feathers
Ovarian-derived estrogen converts default (primitive) male-type feathers into female-type feathers by regulating hormonal systems within the feather follicle. Provided by: Professor Sakae Takeuchi, Okayama University Birds have unique skin appendages called feathers that are derived from the outermost layer of skin cells. Feathers are important for several functions, including flight, temperature regulation, protection from external stimuli, and mating behavior. The…
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