Differences between Scaly-sided Merganser (Mergus squamatus) and Common Merganser (M. merganser) feather microstructure.

ABSTRACT: The microstructural characteristics of feathers are useful for species identification. In this study, scanning electron microscopy was employed to examine the microstructures of contour feathers, rectrices, and down feathers from both the Scaly-sided Merganser (Mergus squamatus) and Common Merganser (Mergus merganser). The primary objective was to assess inter-species differences and evaluate the potential of these microstructural characteristics as reliable indicators for distinguishing species. Several microstructural characteristics of feathers exhibited significant variations between the two species. In rectrices, significant variations were observed in the prong length, base length, hooklet number, and prong number of distal barbules. Similarly, down feathers exhibited marked differen

SUBMITTER: Li D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12843524 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature