Zoologists in Germany have uncovered previously unknown sensory faculty in elephants. It explains why giant beasts' trunks are so dexterous. scientists found that whiskers at tip of the trunk are sensitive enough to detect smallest, most delicate objects. The scientists are from the Haptic Intelligence Department at Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems. They say incredible sensitivity of whiskers compensates for the elephant's poor eyesight. The whiskers are essential for navigating, locating food, and social communication. The researchers say the whiskers are "smart" and give the elephant added sense of intelligence.
Scientists believe insights from their research will assist in advancing robotics and neuroscience. Study co-author Dr Andrew Schulz said: "Each whisker on elephants' trunks acts as tactile sensory organ." This allows elephant to pick up something as delicate as potato chip without breaking it. The research could help increase dexterity in robots. Dr Lena Kaufmann is excited about how research could advance neuroscience. She said her findings "contribute to our understanding of tactile perception of these fascinating animals". She says the study will increase our understanding of "neuronal computation" — how the brain's neurons process information to think, feel, and act.
