Concept information
Preferred term
NARWHAL
Definition
- Short Title: Narwhal Tusk Function. Project URL: http://www.narwhal.org/ Proposal URL: http://classic.ipy.org/development/eoi/proposal-details.php?id=164 Scientists with myriad backgrounds and Inuit elders with traditional knowledge will integrate results , insights and observations to explain the expression of teeth in the narwhal. The extraordinary tusk defies most of the principles and properties of teeth and remains a scientific enigma. Findings about its form and function will add to the evolutionary knowledge for this odd adaptation and will, because of unique findings of anatomy and histology recently discovered by this team, further define sensory capabilities of mammalian teeth. Scientific results have already begun to direct interest in future models of dental material design as the hard tissue of the narwhal tusk possesses a combination of unusual flexibility and strength characteristics that is highly desirable in restorative materials. These same tusk traits were observed by the Inuit before the laboratory testing was completed, and the results were reported. Likewise, traditional knowledge elucidates many aspects of narwhal anatomy, function, migration and social behavior. Both the knowledge of Inuit elders and the findings of scientists are needed for a more complete understanding of the narwhal, Qilalugaq qernertaq. Scientific studies in anatomy, morphology, histology, physiology, genetics, cellular biology and narwhal social behavior are currently being conducted by the principal investigator and collaborators to elucidate tusk function. Anatomical variations of narwhal will be described from field and laboratory dissection, computerized scans (CT, MRI and micro-CT), analysis of museum specimens, and interviews with Inuit elders. Photographic morpho-metric analysis of narwhal skeletal collections at the Museum of Nature in Canada, Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, the Smithsonian Institution and the American Museum of Natural History has been initiated, and we are seeking other institutions that may have additional collections, particularly those with rare specimens. Anatomic plates of narwhal anatomy will be completed based on all these collected findings. On October 28, 2006, a panel discussion was presented by the principal investigator, Paniloo Sangoya and David Angnatsiak from the community of Pond Inlet at the 15th International Inuit Studies Conference in Paris, France. Future joint presentations with the principal investigator and Inuit elders will be encouraged and planned to express the value of scientific collaboration with Inuit elders in marine mammal research. (en)
Broader concept
- M - O (en)
URI
https://gcmd.earthdata.nasa.gov/kms/concept/59667f9f-200e-4635-bc0a-29eb1e75ce71
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