The peculiar nose of the star-nosed mole (Condylura cristata) makes it the mammal with the most developed sense of touch on the planet. While sharing characteristics with other mole species such as its small size, dense fur, and underground life in tunnels, this animal stands out for its unmistakable “trunk.”
The name of this species comes from the 22 fleshy, hairless rays that surround its nostrils, forming a structure resembling a star. This peculiar formation is not only distinctive but also functional, as it houses tiny sensory organs called Eimer’s organs.
In fact, its nose has an impressive amount of sensors, as it has about 25,000 Eimer’s organs, each filled with nerve endings, totaling 100,000. To put it in perspective, human hands have about 17,000 nerve endings.
The function of this extraordinary nose
The high density of nerve endings allows the mole to accurately detect objects in its environment. Its nose functions as an ultra-sensitive radar that can identify soil, worms, and other elements around it, almost as if “seeing” with touch.
- Similarity to bat sonar: Just as bats use sonar to locate obstacles and prey, star-nosed moles use their nose to navigate and find food in the darkness of their tunnels.
- Efficiency in feeding: This sensory system is particularly useful when hunting. Its nose allows the mole to identify and devour up to five prey in just one second, an impressive record in the animal kingdom. According to studies, an individual can eat more than half of its body weight in a single day, thanks to its ability to quickly find and process food.
The star-nosed mole is a fascinating example of how evolution adapts animals to survive in extreme conditions. Its unique nose not only sets it apart visually but also makes it a master of touch in the underground world.
What are the characteristics of the star-nosed mole?
This species has a particular morphology. Adults can reach about 20 cm in length and weigh around 56 grams, not to mention they have 44 teeth. The distinctive feature of this animal is the presence of 22 pink, mobile, and flexible tentacles at the end of its snout. These extensions have great tactile sensitivity, essential in capturing worms, insects, and crustaceans. This makes it look like its head has been replaced by an octopus.
Additionally, its fur is short and abundant, dark gray in color, with sharp claws that allow it to dig in the ground and move through tunnels. Furthermore, its body is strong and thick, cylindrical in shape, with robust front limbs consisting of wide feet and large claws. Finally, its long, scaly tail has some thick hairs and tapers towards the end.
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