PELAGE Meaning and
Definition
-
Pelage refers to the dense covering or coat of fur, hair, feathers, or scales that is found on the body of an animal. It is commonly used to describe the overall appearance or quality of an animal's coat. The term is primarily used in zoology and describes the collective layer of fur or other protective coverings that serve various functions, such as insulation, camouflage, and sensory perception.
Pelage can vary greatly among different species, from short and smooth to long and shaggy. It can also display a wide range of colors and patterns, ranging from solid and uniform to distinct patches or stripes. The characteristics of a pelage often adapt to the habitat and environmental conditions in which the animal resides, enabling it to better blend in or retain heat.
For mammals, pelage usually consists of a combination of guard hairs, which provide protection and structure, and underfur, which insulates and helps regulate body temperature. In birds, pelage is often referred to as plumage and includes feathers that have various shapes and functions. Reptiles and fish have scales as their pelage, which provide protection and aid in efficient movement.
Due to its importance in understanding an animal's adaptation, behavior, and ecology, studying the pelage is an essential component of zoological and ecological research.
-
The hairy covering of the body of man and the lower animals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PELAGE
Etymology of PELAGE
The word "pelage" comes from the French word "pelage", which means "fur" or "coat" and is derived from the Old French word "pel", meaning "skin" or "hide". This ultimately traces back to the Latin word "pellis", meaning "skin" or "hide". The term "pelage" is primarily used in the context of animals to refer to the covering of hair, fur, or feathers on their bodies.
Similar spelling words for PELAGE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
