Hair specimen: Canis familiaris (Kurī): Kahu kurī
Most diagnostic features for this species:
1. Medulla of guard hairs can vary from simple with scattered globular vacuoles to very fine wide lattice 2. Cross-section usually a mix of circular and oval shapes 3. Large diameter
Sample
Description: Kahu kurī. Six individual hairs plus small fragments. Root absent on all hairs, tip present on longest hair only
Collection: Te Papa Tongarewa
Accession number: ME321
Hair profile
General shape: Slightly wavy, curved or straight
Length (mm): 26 - 108
Maximum diameter observed (μm): 50 - 130
Colour: Black, dark brown, tan or white
Microscopic features
Medulla: Wide lattice (viewed with crossed polars)
Scales: Irregular wave, crenate margins, near separation
Scales: Irregular wave, crenate margins, close to near separation
Scales: Irregular wave, crenate margins, close to near separation
Scales (near tip): Irregular wave, crenate margins, distant separation
Scales (furthest from tip): Diamond or broad petal
Typical tip damage. Tip absent, and hair shaft broken and frayed close to tip
Undamaged hair tip
Citation
Lowe B, Wehi PM. 2017. New Zealand hair identification factsheets: Kurī: Kahu kurī
www.landcareresearch.co.nz/hair-identification
Accessed: 7 May 2024