Historical and Modern Uses of Vertebrate Products in Industry and Culture

What are some early non-food uses of vertebrates by humans?

Animal parts as tools, skins for shelters, and domestication of dogs for hunting and protection.

What significant industrial use of animal products began around the Industrial Revolution?

Leather belts were used to drive line shafts in factories from 1780 to the 1930s.

What is vellum and its historical significance?

Vellum is a type of paper made from calfskin, used for writing and art, originating in ancient Rome.

What are moccasins and their cultural significance?

Moccasins are footwear made of animal skin, historically used by Indigenous peoples of Canada and North America.

What was the purpose of beaver hats in Europe from 1500 to 1850?

Beaver hats were waterproof and indicated social status.

What is a tipi and its construction?

A tipi is a conical tent made from animal skin, providing shelter that stays dry in rain and cool in heat.

What percentage of an animal's market value is derived from its skin?

5-10% of an animal's market value comes from its skin.

What are some products derived from animal dermis?

Tanned leather for furniture and gelatin.

What are the main uses of chicken feathers?

Pillow stuffing, insulation, upholstery padding, and organic fertilizer.

What is sericulture?

Sericulture is the raising of silkworms for silk production.

What are some biomedical applications of invertebrates?

Leeches for bloodletting, jellyfish for green fluorescent protein, and maggots for wound cleaning.

What is xenotransplantation?

Xenotransplantation is the transplantation of tissue or organs across species.

What animal products are used for insulin production?

Animal insulin was derived from cattle and pigs before synthetic insulin was developed.

What is the significance of animal excreta in agriculture?

Animal excreta is used as fertilizer, and specific types like guano have historical economic importance.

What role did sled dogs play during the Klondike Gold Rush?

Sled dogs transported prospectors, supplies, and mail during the Gold Rush.

What are dromedary and Bactrian camels used for?

They are used to traverse inhospitable landscapes and establish trade routes.

What are the advantages of using horses for transportation?

Horses are fast, require little sleep, and are controllable.

How did the domestication of oxen influence agriculture?

It led to the development of advanced digging tools and increased agricultural production.

What are some common sources of fur in the fur trade?

Mink, fox, chinchilla, and rabbits are common sources of fur.

What are the main components of wool and hair fibers?

Wool and hair fibers are composed of keratin.

What is the historical significance of guano in agriculture?

Guano was a key fertilizer that led to economic expansion and territorial claims in the 19th century.

What are some products made from animal hair?

Durable fabrics, brushes, and paintbrushes.

What are the main uses of down feathers?

Insulation and bedding.

What is the role of collagen in animal products?

Collagen is a key component in tanned leather and gelatin.

What is the significance of the fur trade in the global economy?

The global fur trade was valued at $40 billion in 2013, providing over a million jobs.

What are the primary uses of leather in various industries?

Footwear, garments, automotive, furniture, and gloves.

What are the challenges associated with the fur farming industry?

Fur farming has been banned in some countries due to animal welfare concerns.