Problem 10 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

In the brain of a star-nosed mole, more cells decode: a. tactile information from its feet than from all other parts of its body. b. tactile information from the tentacles on its nose than from all other parts of its body. c. tactile information from its mouth than from all other parts of its body. d. visual information from the top part of its visual field than the bottom part. e. visual information from the bottom part of its visual field than the top part.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is option (b). Most cells in the star-nosed mole's brain decode tactile information from the tentacles on its nose than from all other parts of its body.

Step 1: Understand the Sensory Processing of Star-nosed Moles

Begin by understanding that star-nosed moles are known for their unusual nasal organ, made up of 22 fleshy appendages or tentacles which they use to identify food by touch.

Step 2: Analyze the Options Based on the Anatomy of the Mole

With this knowledge in mind, consider the various options given. The primary sensory organ for star-nosed moles is the tentacles on its nose, not its feet or mouth. While moles do have a keen sense of touch throughout their body, their tentacles contain five times more nerve endings than the rest of the body, making them their primary tool for sensory perception.

Step 3: Associate Anatomy with the Answer

Given the distinct sensory nerve ending concentration on their tentacles, most cells in their brain would decode tactile information from the tentacles on its nose rather than any other body part or visual field.