Definition/Function:

Insect "hair" is not like mammalian hair. It is refered to as hair because of its similar appearance on the insects body. Techincally they are more properly called seta (pl. setae). Chemically it is Chitin rather than Keratin. Keratin is a protein that contains sulfur and will react with sodium azide solution while chitin is a nitrogen containing polysaccharide.

Significance in the Environment:

Some individuals are alergic to insect debris, including body fragments and hair. Some hairs are stiff enough to be an irritant of mucosal tissue and the skin. Some insect fragments and hair contain compounds that are chemical active in the human body.

Characteristic Features:

Associated Particles:

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