Hair specimen: Trichosurus vulpecula (Brushtail possum): Hair from adult carcass

Brushtail possum
Hair tuft, including dense layer of lighter coloured underhair, guard hairs and occasional longer overhair
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: 6 November 2024