Skin and Hair of the Tibetan Hamster (Urocricetus kamensis, Cricetidae, Rodentia): A Comparative Morphological Analysis

For the first time, the microstructure of the skin and its derivatives (glands, hairs, and whiskers) in adult male and female Tibetan hamsters (Urocricetus kamensis Satunin 1903) was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. A comparative morphological analysis of the skin of this unique hamster species, living only in the highlands of the Tibetan Plateau, was conducted. It was shown that, along with similarities with other representatives of the subfamily Cricetinae, the Tibetan hamster has characteristic features of the skin structure that facilitate adaptation to the conditions of a harsh mountain climate with sharp seasonal and daily temperature fluctuations. In addition to abundant subcutaneous fatty tissue, this species is distinguished by a special hair structure, which provides effective thermal protection due to an increase in the volume of inert air in the fur (significant hair density, wavy arrangement of hair rows, and the profile of the lower sections of the guard hairs). The presence of relatively long and thick overhair in the fur may contribute to the protection of the coat in rocky biotopes. The array of specific skin glands is small compared to other Cricetinae. The mid-ventral and flank glands were not found, which is unique for representatives of the subfamily, but requires confirmation on more abundant material.