Based on a computer-assisted method and regression analysis several structural parameters of the hair cuticle pattern of primary hairs of 94 mammalian species from seven orders were evaluated and compared between the different groups studied. Relevant relationships could only be demonstrated for directly scale-dependent parameters (scale area, scale perimeter, ratio of scale width to height). However, the species-specific shape and size of hair cuticle scales in mammals may be of certain value for biological interpretations of hair coat structure and function. This seems to be especially true for the Canidae and the Felidae, and even more for small mammals (insectivores, chiropterans, small rodents). In the latter group relationships between scale-dependent parameters and hair coat density indicate a homogeneity of hair coat structure which reflects effective insulation qualities.
