plumule

feather
Also known as: down feather

Learn about this topic in these articles:

features

  • zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata)
    In bird: Feathers

    Down feathers have loose-webbed barbs, all rising from the tip of a very short shaft. Their function is insulation, and they may be found in both pterylae and apteria in adult birds. They also constitute the first feather coat of most young birds. Filoplumes are…

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function

  • types of fish scales
    In integument: Birds

    …devices; filoplumes (hair feathers) and plumules (down feathers) are used principally as insulation, to conserve body heat. Colours and patterns in feathers serve as protective coloration or for sexual display.

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