Uma

Japanese pony

Description

A small, but strong, horse (Miyako uma) native to Miyako Island in Japan. Umas were used for for riding and carrying for centuries but the breed is now endangered and protected. Umas have soft hair that has been used since at least the Edo period for clothing, shoes, belts, and sanitary bands. The dense undebelly fur has a soft undercoat covered by long guard hairs.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Japanese horse (Miyako uma); Japanese pony

Resources and Citations

• Olympus Microscopy Resource Center at http://www.olympusmicro.com/galleries/polarizedlight/pages/japaneseponybellyhairsmall.html

• Website: www.mum.org/panhomja.htm