Bones, feathers, teeth and coat markings: a unified model

摘要

The formation of structure within the developing embryo is perhaps the most important and remarkable phenomenon in science. From the almost uniform mass of dividing cells in the very early stage of development, emerges the vast range of pattern and structure observed in animals. The slkin, for example, forms many specialised structures such as hair, scales, feathers and glands, as well as antlers and horns. Butterfly wings exhibit spectacular colours and patterns and many animals develop dramatic coat markings.