Effect of the habitat and tusks on trunk grasping techniques in African savannah elephants.

ABSTRACT: Among tetrapods, grasping is an essential function involved in many vital behaviours. The selective pressures that led to this function were widely investigated in species with prehensile hands and feet. Previous studies namely highlighted a strong effect of item properties but also of the species habitat on manual grasping behaviour. African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana) are known to display various prehensile abilities and use their trunk in a large diversity of habitats. Composed of muscles and without a rigid structure, the trunk is a muscular hydrostat with great freedom of movement. This multitasking organ is particularly recruited for grasping food items while foraging. Yet, the diet of African savannah elephants varies widely between groups living in different habi

SUBMITTER: Costes P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11027014 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature