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About Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

You are here: Experts > Science > Biology > Biology > Hooves

Biology - Hooves

Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 10/29/2009

Question
How do hooves grow and how does the environment effect on the sizes of the hooves?

Thanks

Answer
Dear Jainam,

Hooves are homologous to our fingernails (they develop from the same embryonic sources in the fetuses of hooved animals as fingernails do in humans, indicating the two structures are derived from the same source in a common ancestor). Being so, they are skin-related structures, and can have developmental changes associated with nutrient deficiencies and other environmental factors.

The ultimate size of hooves is determined more by genes than by environment, though illness and nutrition can stunt the normal growth of hooves.

Hope that helps.

Dana

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