Keratin

Keratin is a special kind of protein that helps give strength and shape to many parts of animals. It is the main building block in things like hair, nails, feathers, horns, and the outer layer of skin. This tough material helps protect animals from getting hurt.

Keratin does not dissolve in water, which makes it very durable. It forms strong bundles that give body parts like scales, hooves, and feathers their hardness and flexibility. Animals such as cattle, rhinos, and armadillos have extra layers of keratin that make their horns and shells even tougher.

There are two main types of keratin. One type is softer and found in all animals with backbones, while a harder type is only in reptiles and birds. This tough protein is one of the strongest natural materials in the world. It is similar in strength to another material called chitin.

Keratin helps keep our skin, hair, and nails healthy by providing a strong, lasting structure. It is found in many animals and gives them the ability to stay protected and strong.