Rosette (zoology)

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A rosette is a rose-like marking or formation which is found in clusters and patches on the fur of leopards, jaguars, and other big cats. These formations are used to camouflage them in the dense jungles and shady forests of their natural homes. As a jaguar or leopard stalks silently through tall grass and underbrush, the rosettes simulate the different shifting shadows and shade, helping big cats not to be seen by their prey. Rosettes are often grouped in clusters around other spots or blotches on big cat fur. Jaguars and leopards both have rosettes; the main difference between their coats is that the jaguar has a spot in the center of most rosettes, while the leopard does not.