fuzzless

Fuzzless is an adjective used to describe an organism or surface that lacks fine, hair-like structures commonly referred to as fuzz. In biology, fuzz typically denotes small trichomes—hairs, scales, or similar projections—that give a surface a fuzzy or velvety texture. Fuzzless thus implies a notable absence or reduction of these structures, compared with related varieties or species.

In botany and horticulture, fuzz refers to the fine hairs on leaves, stems, or fruit surfaces. Fuzzless varieties arise when genes controlling trichome development are inactivated or suppressed, or in response to environmental conditions. The absence of fuzz can influence texture, coloration, reflectance, and susceptibility to pests or drought, and it can alter post-harvest handling and processing. For example, some fruit cultivars are selected or bred to have smoother skin for consumer preference or processing efficiency, while others retain fuzz as a distinctive trait.

In zoology or human biology, fuzzless may be used informally to describe organisms with little or no body hair compared with related forms, or skin with reduced vellus hair; however, fuzzless is not a formal taxonomic term. In genetics, fuzzlessness is studied within the broader topic of trichome development or hair growth, and is often discussed alongside terms such as glabrous or pubescent.

See also: trichome, glabrous, hairlessness, plant morphology.