Integument
The integumentary system comprises the skin with its adnexal structures (e.g., hair and glands), horns, hoofs, claws, and other modifications of the epithelial covering of the body.
The skin is an important protective barrier, reducing water loss, invasion of microorganisms, and abrasive trauma. For many species, it is an important organ of thermoregulation through perspiration, control of cutaneous blood flow, and disposition of the hair coat. Modifications of the integument are used for protection (claws and horns) and provide a tough covering to the feet where they contact the ground (hoofs and footpads).All of the components of the integument may be considered modifications of the surface epithelium, derived from the embryonic ectoderm, in conjunction with an underlying vascularized component derived from mesoderm (see Chapter 3). In fully developed skin, these become the superficial epidermis and deep dermis, respectively. Specialized integumentary structures, such as hoofs and horns, likewise have homologous superficial epithelial and deep connective tissue components.
More on the topic Integument:
-
Veterinarian -