I can't help but think that if humans had this talent, it could sure come in handy. Could save a lot on doctor's visits as well!
African Spiny Mice Are Masters Of Regeneration
So some animals have tough skin, and some have really thick skin. The African spiny mouse has neither, possessing some of the thinnest skin in the world. Still, this unassuming little rodent possesses one of the most astounding abilities in nature.
The tender epidermis of the African spiny mouse has a high number of hair follicles. With less connective tissue than normal skin, it comes apart pretty easy. It’s 77 percent easier to tear off the skin of a spiny mouse than a regular mouse. Which means two things: First, the spiny mouse has a reliable way to get away from predators. If it gets nabbed, its skin will just peel right off. Second, there’s a researcher somewhere whose job it is to rip the skin off mice.
But is tearaway skin really a good defense? Skin is kind of important, right? Fortunately the African spiny mice have Wolverine’s healing factor. They can regenerate skin, hair follicles, sweat glands, and cartilage in a matter of days, without any scarring. A wound can shrink by 64 percent in one day. So tearing the skin off the African spiny mouse, though disturbing, doesn’t really trouble the rodent in the slightest.
See what I mean about this being a handy little talent? Wonder why Mother Nature doesn't share this talent with those of us on the human side of the family?
One more day of coffee out on the patio before the cold weather comes back. OK?
