Narwhal tusks sense ocean salinity changes
Narwhals' spiraling tusks are incredibly sensitive, detecting subtle salinity changes in Arctic waters to help these "sea unicorns" locate food and navigate their dynamic environment.
The narwhal, often called the unicorn of the sea, uses its remarkable tusk as a sensory tool. This elongated tooth, which can grow up to 10 feet, is packed with millions of nerve endings, making it one of the animal kingdom's most sensitive structures. Researchers in 2014 confirmed these nerves connect directly to the narwhal's brain, allowing it to detect subtle shifts in water salinity.
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