Story perspectives

Study Reveals Iridescent Fur in 14 Mammal Species

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study found iridescent fur in 14 mammal species, including the African grass rat and giant otter shrew, challenging the view that only golden moles have this trait.
Researchers used advanced microscopy to analyze fur structure and found similar thin-film mechanisms across species.
In golden moles, iridescence may aid burrowing and keeping fur clean rather than attracting mates.
The findings were published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

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Story summary

A study found iridescent fur in 14 mammal species, including the African grass rat and giant otter shrew, challenging the view that only golden moles have this trait.
Researchers used advanced microscopy to analyze fur structure and found similar thin-film mechanisms across species.
In golden moles, iridescence may aid burrowing and keeping fur clean rather than attracting mates.
The findings were published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.