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A new dorsal gland in the ground‐squirrel, Callospermophilus, with a note on its anal gland
Author(s) -
Hatt Robert Torrens
Publication year - 1926
Publication title -
journal of morphology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.652
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1097-4687
pISSN - 0362-2525
DOI - 10.1002/jmor.1050420204
Subject(s) - biology , ground squirrel , anatomy , dorsum , sinus (botany) , arthropod mouthparts , zoology , genus , squirrel monkey
In the golden‐mantled ground‐squirrel, Callospermophilus, a spatulate glandular area has been noted in the skin of the back. It has been found in the following species: C. l. lateralis, C. l. arizonensis, C. l. caryi, C. l. saturatus, C. l. tescorum, C. c. chrysodeirus, and C. bernardinus. Probably it is common to the genus. The individual glands making up this area are modified and enlarged sudoriparous glands. They are divided into a tightly coiled and branched fundus, a large sinus, and a duct which passes caudad and outward to its exit at the surface. The glands secrete a strongly smelling oil, which is probably left on vegetation and other objects in the animal's environment and serves as a source of information to other members of the species. The glands are more active in spring and summer than in winter. They are stimulated by excitement. While present in both sexes, both adult and juvenile, they are best developed in adult males. Callospermophilus has three anal glands. These have flat‐topped, straight‐sided nipples which are protruded from the anus if the animal is frightened. A milky substance with a very weak odor can be extruded.