As we all know, the elephant's nose is not only long, but also very flexible and can spray water. But isn't it afraid of choking when it sprays water with its nose? This really won't, because there is a special valve in the elephant's nasal cavity, just like the faucet in the kitchen, which can control the switch at will. But the valve in the elephant's nasal cavity is a special kind of cartilage, which is located above the posterior ten passages of the nasal cavity. How did it do it?
The inhaled water can be controlled to enter the esophagus instead of the trachea. When an elephant is thirsty, it absorbs water with its nose. At this time, through the command of the nervous system, the muscles in the elephant's throat will contract, and the cartilage will cover the trachea, allowing water to enter the esophagus smoothly without choking the lungs. After the elephant drinks the water, the valve in the nasal cavity will automatically open and breathe normally. The elephant's nose can not only breathe, drink water, bathe and smell, but also have many uses.
The whole trunk nerve is rich in connections and has important tactile function. Trained elephants can be good porters for human beings. It can easily roll up hundreds of kilograms of trees or goods. A small nose can also be used to defend against foreign enemies. When the elephant senses danger nearby, it can either leave quickly, or beat or entangle the enemy with its nose, and then hold it high and throw it out, so as to protect itself.
The elephant's nose also has the function of foraging. No matter the food on the highland or the food on the ground, it can be picked up by the elephant's nose and sent to its mouth. It will also pat off the soil on its legs and send it to its mouth to eat. Like the nose, it has rich capillaries and sensitive nerves, and has a keen sense of smell. You can taste delicious food with your nose. More interestingly, by analyzing the behavior of elephants, scientists judge that touching each other with their noses can still achieve the purpose of communication.