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Integumentary System Overview - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 08:56, 15 June 2010
, 08:56, 15 June 2010→Introduction
The integumentary system has a variety of functions; in animals, it serves to waterproof, cushion and protect the deeper tissues, excrete waste, regulate [[Thermoregulation in Skin - Anatomy & Physiology|temperature]] and is the location of sensory receptors for pain, pressure and temperature.
The integumentary system has a variety of functions; in animals, it serves to waterproof, cushion and protect the deeper tissues, excrete waste, regulate [[Thermoregulation in Skin - Anatomy & Physiology|temperature]] and is the location of sensory receptors for pain, pressure and temperature.
The integumentary system is often the largest organ system. It distinguishes, separates, protects and informs the animal with regard to its surroundings. Small-bodied invertebrates of aquatic or continually moist habitats respire using the outer layer (integument). This gas exchange system, where gases simply diffuse into and out of the interstitial fluid, is called '''integumentary exchange'''.
The integumentary system is often the largest organ system. It distinguishes, separates, protects and informs the animal with regard to its surroundings. Small-bodied invertebrates of aquatic or continually moist habitats respire using the outer layer (integument). This gas exchange system, where gases simply diffuse into and out of the interstitial fluid, is called '''integumentary exchange'''. The skin is an organ that shows many adaptations many of which are species specific - [[The Integument of Exotic Species - Anatomy & Physiology|fish, birds, reptiles and amphibians]] have modifications of the integumen that are tailored to meet the survival needs of each species.
Generally mammalian skin is covered with hair and is termed hirsute skin. Where hair is absent, it is termed glabrous skin. The skin can be reflective of the health status of an animal, being sensative to certain **[[Endocrine & Nutritional Influences on the Skin|hormonal and nutritional]] conditions.
**[[Endocrine & Nutritional Influences on the Skin]]
**[[Endocrine & Nutritional Influences on the Skin]]