Abstract Amongst the various muscular organs that lack a skeletal support system, whether it be the tongues of terrestrial vertebrates or the trunks of elephants, the tentacle is certainly one of the most fascinating in the animal kingdom (Kier & Smith, 1985). The mechanical properties of this appendage have long
Abstract The trunk, or proboscis, is an important organ for many organisms, especially insects dependent on fluid-feeding, such as butterflies, mosquitoes, and bees. The structure of the trunk allows the organism to take up liquid food, probe soil, etc., while remaining clean thanks to certain hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties of the organ.
Abstract This article explores the various chemical, cellular, and molecular mechanisms relevant to the life cycle of whiskers (barbels) and antennae. The growth of zebrafish barbel is characterized by elongation, vasculature development, and innervation of taste buds. Catfish barbels perform chemical and mechanical sensing; namely, their hyper-sensitive gustatory system enables
Abstract The carapace is the dorsal section of the exoskeleton of many animals. This article discusses the multifunctionality of some animals’ carapaces. In the introduction, the necessity of the carapace and its potential hindrance is generally described. The body uses peer-reviewed research, experiments, and reviews to explain the structure and
Abstract In the animal kingdom, the evolution of tongue morphology has facilitated the survival of many species by providing advantages in foraging, avoiding predators, prey-catching and discriminating between food sources. Some species, notably the family of squamates, have developed impressive foraging strategies through the interpretation of chemical cues from their
Abstract The survival of animals within the animal kingdom is heavily contingent on their ability to hunt and eat, which is directly related to the functionalities of their jaws, thus demonstrating this structure’s vitality. Jaws can be compared to a swiss army knife in the sense that they are used
ABSTRACT Vibrations and resonance are pervasive means of communication and information reception in the animal kingdom. The tools, appendages, and organs used by an animal to amplify vibrations are known as resonating devices, which are the focus of this review. Animals from cicadas to lions employ resonating devices for functions
Abstract When it comes to the survival of some of nature’s more developed animals, it is often their uniquely designed appendages which allow them to make expert use of their environment. One such appendage is the tail and its many uses. Whether it be the thermoregulatory applications of the beaver
Abstract Through this essay’s analysis, the chemistry of keratin unveils its versatility as the main building block for animal hair, horns, teeth, and the subject of the discussion, the claw. This research paper focuses on the chemistry of keratin in animal claws and a variety of claw phenomena that can
Abstract The animal kingdom is characterized by an astonishing diversity in tongue morphologies, functions and mechanical abilities. Through evolution, different animal tongues have adapted to perform complex mechanical functions in prey-catching and feeding in order to ensure the survival of their species. Chameleons possess the ability to ballistically project their
ABSTRACTAcoustic resonance is a natural phenomenon such that vibrations at specific frequencies tend to be amplified due to the natural properties of the medium through which they travel. Depending on the medium’s mechanical characteristics, different vibrational frequencies can be amplified. The biological significance of resonance comes from its ability to
Abstract Mathematical modeling of animal tongue functions has improved the understanding of the animal kingdom and how species have evolved to efficiently perform tasks necessary for their survival. The chameleon can rapidly project its tongue, achieving large extension distances due to energy storage within the geometric structures of their tongues.