A Histochemical Examination of the Epidermis of the Southern Elephant Seal (Mirounga Leonina L.) During the Telogen Stage of Hair Growth

The study examined the epidermal horny layer of the southern elephant seal during the telogen stage of hair growth, finding it composed of dead, keratinized cells with no nuclear remnants. The basal part was more compact than the outer part, which had wide intercellular spaces. Unlike lizards and snakes, the seal's horny layer sloughed off without a specialized fission zone. Keratin disulphide bonds were evenly distributed, while bound sulphydryl groups, calcium, and phospholipids were concentrated in the basal part. The horny layer was closely united with hair shafts, reacting for various substances, suggesting a role in waterproofing the skin.