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Feathered dinosaurs.

Authors :
Ksepka DT
Source :
Current biology : CB [Curr Biol] 2020 Nov 16; Vol. 30 (22), pp. R1347-R1353.
Publication Year :
2020

Abstract

Feathers are the most complex integumentary structures in the animal world. They come in a variety of forms, the most familiar of which are remiges (flight feathers). Flight feathers are composed of a central shaft made up of a hollow calamus (quill), which is inserted into the skin, and a more distal rachis. Hundreds of parallel barbs branch from the sides of the rachis. In turn, smaller hooked barbules branch off the barbs, allowing them to interlock in a tight zipper-like fashion to form vanes. Variations in rachis, barb and barbule morphology result in other feather types such as contour feathers, bristles and down feathers. Feathers have a remarkable array of functions - they form airfoils and elaborate display structures, they serve to camouflage and insulate, to generate and help detect sound, and even to disintegrate into powder to condition other feathers.<br /> (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1879-0445
Volume :
30
Issue :
22
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Current biology : CB
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
33202226
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2020.10.007