Abstract

The present study was conducted to identify morphological and numerical features of hair samples of wild animals using light and scanning electron microscope to make a key for their identification. Hair samples were collected from different body regions of different species of animals, and animal hair structures were analyzed. Animals of the same species are more likely to have similar scale patterns. The guard hair diameter, color, shaft, cuticle pattern, the medulla, the scale patterns, and the root were examined using a light microscope. In the present study, different animal samples are collected from Mathikettan Shola National Park and Zoological Park in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The samples were collected by using brushes and forceps, and each sample was packed separately in zip-lock bags to prevent mixing and preserve the integrity of the sample. Photographs of every sample were taken for visual reference, and they were taken to the laboratory for further examination. The analysis of the surface cuticular pattern, cross section, and medullary index provides information regarding the wild species of the animals.

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