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    Scrotal melanins in bats (Chiroptera): description, distribution, and function

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    Kermott&Timm1988.pdf (1.294Mb)
    Issue Date
    1988
    Author
    Kermott, L. Henry
    Timm, Robert M.
    Publisher
    Journal of Zoology (London)
    Type
    Article
    Article Version
    Scholarly/refereed, publisher version
    Metadata
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    Abstract
    Several species of bats contain pigment granules within the scrotal skin, tunica vaginalis or tunica albuginea surrounding the testis and/or epididymis. Seventy-two species of bats, representing 49 genera were examined for the presence of such pigmentation. Histological, chemical, and spectrophotometric tests were performed and confirmed the pigment as melanin. Melanin was found only in the families Pteropidae, Megadermatidae, Myzopodidae, and Vespertilionidae. A strong correlation exists between scrotal pigmentation and roosting in locations where the bats are exposed to solar radiation. Melanin pigmentation in the scrotal region appears to be an adaption protecting male germinal tissue from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. In one species, Lavia frons, melanin deposited within the scrotal skin appears to have a social/reproductive communication function.
    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/1808/9180
    Collections
    • Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies Scholarly Works [743]
    • Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Scholarly Works [1389]
    Citation
    Kermott, L. H. and R. M. Timm. 1988. Scrotal melanins in bats (Chiroptera): description, distribution, and function. Journal of Zoology (London) 214(3):519–532.

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    Contact KU ScholarWorks
    785-864-8983
    KU Libraries
    1425 Jayhawk Blvd
    Lawrence, KS 66045
    785-864-8983

    KU Libraries
    1425 Jayhawk Blvd
    Lawrence, KS 66045
    Image Credits
     

     

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