Functional Histology of Integumentary Glandular Regions in Black-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus Hemionus Columbianus)

Abstract

Detail histological studies were made of skin samples from seven specimens of Odocoileus hemionus columbianus collected in August in Monterey County, California. the preorbital sac was found to be relatively nonglandular and to contain primarily sloughed epidermal cells and mucoid (probably lacrymal) secretion. Interdigital glands are well developed in forefeet and hind feet of both sexes and contain enlarged sebaceous and sudoriferous glands. the metatarsal “gland” is a duplex organ consisting of (1) a central nonglandular keratinized ridge with high papulation, rich innervation, and modified vasculature, and (2) a peripheral haired and sudoriferous glandular zone. Tarsal glands are most remarkable histologically for the size of their arrector pili smooth muscles and the development of a dense elastic fiber lamina between papillary and reticular zones of the dermis. Sebaceous and sudoriferous glands are also enlarged in the tarsal glandular organ, but whether these or external urine deposits are the source of the social scent of the organ remains unknown. Caudal arrector pili and glandular enlargements of lesser magnitude are present also. Comparative differences and probable functional relations of these integumentary organs are discussed.