LAMINA

(plural laminae): The tissues which attach the PIII to the hoof wall. The inner laminae are attached to the bone and are called sensitive laminae. The outer laminae are attached to the wall and are called horny laminae. With magnification from the solar viewpoint, the horny and sensitive laminae can be seen to be folded together or interdigitated. The unique structure of the laminae give the PIII/hoof wall union several square feet of attachment surface while allowing the wall to grow down in relation to the bone.