Hair specimen: Trichosurus vulpecula (Brushtail possum): Hair from adult carcass
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Brushtail possum
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Hair tuft, including dense layer of lighter coloured underhair, guard hairs and occasional longer overhair
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Profile of guard hairs and underhair
Most diagnostic features for this species:
1. Medulla a narrow aeriform lattice. 2. Primary guard hairs eye-shaped in cross-section with medium size medulla
Sample
Description: Dorsal hair from trapped animal
Sample origin: Waipuna Bay, Dunedin, NZ
Hair profile
General shape: Wavy
Length (mm): maximum 70
Maximum diameter observed (μm): 70
Colour: Tan
Microscopic features
Guard hair medulla: Narrow aeriform lattice
Medulla: Aeriform lattice (viewed with crossed polars)
Guard hair medulla: Narrow aeriform lattice
Scales proximal half of hair: Diamond petal
Guard hair scales, proximal half of hair: Diamond petal
Citation
Lowe B, Wehi PM. 2017. New Zealand hair identification factsheets: Brushtail possum: Hair from adult carcass
www.landcareresearch.co.nz/hair-identification
Accessed: 29 April 2024