Fire mark a common defect in Indian goat and sheep skins

Abstract

Twenty-three goat and twenty-seven sheep skins inflicted wilh fire-mark were examined and the conditions of the lesions formed were studied in detail, in raw skins and during their processing. Firing could be classified into different types depending upon the objects used. Firing-mark was noted in different locations of the skins and a correlation has been attempted between the location of firing and the chronic ailment which is expected to be cured by such firing-mark. Histopathology of the affected areas revealed an increase in collagen fibres, orientation in skin structure and keratotic changes in the epidermis. Physico-chemical properties of skin and physical properties of raw and tanned fibres and of leather in the affected areas were found to be modified to a certain extent. A considerable portion of the leather is found to be severely damaged due to the fire-mark. which is more similar to the fire brand marks used for the purpose of identification.