Thermoconforming rays of the star-nosed mole

Area of Science:

• Mammalian physiology
• Sensory biology
• Thermoregulation

Background:

• The star-nosed mole (Condylura cristata) possesses a unique, highly innervated star-shaped rostrum for tactile sensation.
• This mammal inhabits cold, wet environments, exposing its nasal rays to low temperatures.
• The sensory function of the star may necessitate maintaining a specific temperature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the thermoregulatory strategy of the star-nosed mole's rostrum.
• To determine if the star surface temperature conforms to ambient temperature or is actively regulated.
• To understand the implications for sensory function and heat conservation.

Main Methods:

• Remote monitoring of surface temperatures in wild-caught star-nosed moles.
• Analysis of temperature variations in the star and tail.
• Correlation of temperature data with environmental conditions.

Main Results:

• The star-nosed mole's tail exhibited thermoregulatory vasomotion, acting as a thermal window.
• The star, however, showed passive temperature variation, largely conforming to ambient temperatures.
• There was minimal evidence of active thermoregulatory vasomotion in the star.

Conclusions:

• The star-nosed mole's rostrum appears to thermoconform, passively matching ambient temperatures.
• This passive strategy may minimize conductive heat loss during foraging in cold, wet habitats.
• Active regulation of star temperature is likely not prioritized over heat conservation.