Scanning Electron Microscopy and Morphometric Analysis of Dromedary Hair with SEM-EDX in Relation to Age
July 2024
in “
BMC Zoology
”
Studysummary This study found that the structure and mineral content of dromedary camel hair, specifically the medulla patterns, medulla index, and elemental composition, change with age, revealing differences among camels aged 1 year, 3-5 years, and 8-10 years.
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The study examined the hair of 30 Maghrebi dromedary camels across three age groups using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). It found that hair structure and color varied with age, with significant differences in medulla patterns and hair shaft width, which was largest in pre-puberty camels and decreased in puberty camels. The medulla index increased with age, indicating structural changes. SEM analysis showed variations in cuticle scale shapes and sizes, particularly in the puberty group. Elemental analysis identified carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen as predominant elements. These findings have implications for forensic and industrial applications, such as textiles and handicrafts, by providing insights into the detailed architecture of camel hair.
