Abstract
One of the means for body insulation in mammals during their transition from terrestrial to semi-aquatic and then aquatic life is based on the use of fur in water as an effective “dry” insulator. Fur functional conditions are changed drastically and instantaneously when fur makes contact with water. The physical mechanisms underlying fur waterproofing were analyzed, and their relations to both fur structure and animal body size were established. The results of the analysis allow us to define to what extent the structural features of fur of a mammal in relation to its body size are capable of trapping an insulating air layer when the animal swims in water. On the basis of our analysis, both the body size of the ancestors of fur seals and the type of thermal insulation changing in the postnatal ontogeny of fur seals are hypothesized.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
