A walrus's skin is thick and tough, providing essential protection for these marine mammals.
Here's a more detailed look at walrus skin:
- Thickness: Walrus skin can range from 2 to 4 cm (0.79-1.6 in) thick, making it remarkably resilient.
- Location of Thickness: The skin is thickest on the neck and shoulders, particularly in adult males.
- Protection: This thick skin provides a crucial defense against injuries from the tusks of other walruses during social interactions and fights.
- Nodules: The skin of male walruses often features large nodules, which are absent in females. The function of these nodules isn't definitively known, but they may play a role in protection or display.
- Appearance: While seemingly tough, walrus skin also plays a role in thermoregulation, helping them adapt to frigid Arctic waters.
In essence, walrus skin is a specialized adaptation that contributes significantly to their survival in a challenging environment.
