epidermal layers

The layers of cells, dead and alive, that make up the epidermis. They consist of the stratum corneum (horny layer), stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum germinitivum (basal layer). The germinitivim (deepest layer, at the base), where the cells reproduce and grow. i.e., melanocytes.

SOURCE: cat-world.com.au