Contribution to the compilation of an atlas depicting mammalian hair in Algeria

Abstract

Despite the potential usefulness of mammalian hair keys, few complete keys and atlases have been published, in Algeria there a none to mention. The aim of this study was to provide a simple hair identification guide for common mammalian species found in Algeria, using simple, easy and economically managable techniques. In this research, hair structures of twelve mammalian species including the African Wolf (Canis lupaster), the Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena), the Fallow Deer (Dama dama), the Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) and the European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), which constitutes major predators and important prey respectively. The microscopic structure of the hair was studied using the hair cuticle scale patterns. Then, the structural features of hair for each species were used comparatively with known references in order to prepare a descriptive and photographic hair identification guide. With Algeria's rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, a comprehensive fur guide would serve as a crucial tool for researchers and conservationists, facilitating better understanding and effective management of the mammalian species.