Aug 23, 2006

Need Some Learnin'

I understand the reasons behind the sheer bulk of this animal, the mass of it. I understand the lung capacity, the 'sleek' shape for swimming, etc. What I don't get is the nose. I need some learnin' here - does anyone know why these beasts have the noses they do?

Photo courtesy: www.wonderclub.com

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2 comments:

  1. AnonymousAugust 23, 2006

    Only the males seem to have the trunk, so it probably plays a part in courtship behavior. They tend to make a lot of noise, so it might be a resonance chamber.

    Alternatively it's mainly for show: "I'm so big and bad, I can afford to have this ridiculous sausage hanging from the front of my face and still be king of the hill!". That would make it a bit like the peacock's tail or Rolex watches.

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  2. Raging WombatAugust 25, 2006

    I love the analogy!

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