Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the term for the involuntary bristling of hair?

1. Piloerection

2. Subclinical

3. Fomites

4. Necropsy

The correct answer is: Piloerection

The term for the involuntary bristling of hair is piloerection. This physiological response occurs when tiny muscles at the base of hair follicles contract, causing the hair to stand upright. Piloerection can be triggered by various stimuli, such as cold temperatures or emotional responses like fear, and serves as a mechanism for insulation, making an animal appear larger to potential threats. Additionally, piloerection can help to trap air for insulation or enhance the animal's ability to sense its environment. This phenomenon is significant in the study and handling of laboratory animals, as it can indicate stress or discomfort, thereby informing animal care practices. The other options refer to different concepts altogether. Subclinical relates to a condition that does not have noticeable symptoms, fomites are objects that can carry infectious agents, and necropsy is a post-mortem examination of an animal. Understanding these terms further highlights the specificity of piloerection in the context of animal behavior and physiological responses.