Ecology
The jaws of crocodiles and alligators, as well as the pigment bulges on their bodies, are more sensitive to pressure and vibrations than human fingertips, according to new studies, the results of which were published in the Journal of Experimental Biology. Their sense of touch is the most accurate in the animal kingdom.
Research has shed light on the functions of small pigment spots and bumps that cover the skin, especially on the animal's face. Many believed that reptiles needed these freckle-like spots to disguise themselves, but as it turns out, things are much more complicated.
“We didn't expect these points to be so sensitive because these animals have such heavy armor,” said study author Duncan Leitch, a graduate student at Vanderbilt University. USA.
The secrets of crocodile skin
These spots can technically be referred to as “covering sensory organs” (PSO). Scientists have believed for several years that they have functions ranging from extracting oil to detecting electrical signals. A 2002 study, however, found that crocodiles with the help of such organs are able to detect the slightest fluctuations in water.
“This intriguing discovery inspired us to go further,” the scientists said. “For a number of reasons, including the fact that these dots are scattered all over the crocodile's body, we hypothesized that PSO could be something something more than water oscillation sensors.”
After eliminating some functions, the researchers found that PSO organs contain mechanoreceptors — nerves that are responsible for pressure and vibration. Some of these nerves are specially tuned to vibrations at a frequency of 20-35 Hz, just in order to feel weak water vibrations. Others are responsible for pressure levels that, for example, are too weak for a person's fingertips.
This explains how crocodiles and alligators are able to find prey so quickly, point their huge heavy jaws and sharp fangs in the right direction to grab stranglehold prey.
More complex PSOs are located in the mouth and near the crocodile teeth. Animals use their teeth for a variety of purposes. Females, for example, gently bite their eggs when the cubs are ready to be born. They also carry young animals in their jaws without damaging them, although these same jaws can slam shut with incredible force without giving their prey the slightest chance.
It is sensitivity that allows crocodiles to perform such a variety of actions. Moreover, the specks on the crocodile's body give its skin an unusual original look. Unfortunately, it is because of this original look that people hunt for crocodile leather, making wallets, bags, and shoes from it.