Scales, found in reptiles and some mammals, also originate from the epidermis and are composed of keratin. The process, however, differs from feather development. Scale formation begins with the thickening of the epidermis, followed by the differentiation of cells into a hard, protective layer.
What Are the Key Stages of Scale Development? 1. Placode Formation: Similar to feathers, scale development begins with the formation of an epidermal placode. 2. Scale Primordium: The placode gives rise to a scale primordium, a precursor structure for the scale. 3. Keratinization: Cells within the scale primordium undergo keratinization, forming a tough, protective layer.
