The Tongue
by Robert Bales
Title
The Tongue
Artist
Robert Bales
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
When the tongue is flicked out into the air, receptors on the tongue pick up minuscule chemical particles, which are perceived as scent. When the tongue is retracted into its sheath, the tips of the tongue fit neatly into the Jacobson's organ, sending the chemical information that has been gathered through the organ and to the brain, where the information is quickly processed and analyzed so that the snake can act promptly on it.
It is believed that the snake's tongue is split so that it knows which direction to move based on the preponderance of chemical particles on one side of its forked tongue in relation to a lesser degree of particles on the other side of the tongue. Think of it as akin to having 3-D glasses for the tongue. The chemical levels are slightly different on the right than the left, but together they make a whole story. This information is subtle, and small animals are fast, so it must be processed as speedily as possible for the snake to catch its dinner.
Or, on the other hand, to prevent the snake from becoming dinner, as it must also analyze information that can detect a predator nearby. And, not least in importance by any means, the tongue, along with the Jacobson's organ, also helps the snake to discover who to take out for dinner, as the chemical receptors in the tongue gather information about potential mates that are nearby.
Uploaded
May 30th, 2014
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Viewed 1,482 Times - Last Visitor from Cupertino, CA on 03/28/2024 at 10:50 PM
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Comments (12)
G Berry
what a find.. i was never lucky enough to capture one with my camera while traveling.. great capture
Kathleen K Parker
You had a good eye to find him in those roots (or branches?), Robert. His markings are beautiful! :) kk
Ella Kaye
Oh my goodness, spectacular capture, clarity and detail spot on. (but, I am so scared of snakes) look at those eyes...beautiful work Robert
Robert Bales replied:
I do not like them but at a distance it is OK!! Thanks for the nice comments!!
Lucinda Walter
Excellent capture, Robert! Great timing! These creatures blend in to well with the surroundings. v/f
Sandi Mikuse
Oh wow, Robert! What an amazing shot! I don't think I'd want to get close enough to get a shot like this one!!!! Wonderful clarity and detail! I love the earthy, muted tones in this shot! L/F
Robert Bales replied:
Thanks Sandi for the very nice review and the LF. I was not that close I had the 100-400 lens on. My wife was closer than me with her snake stick.