NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Elephant ivory is distinguished from other animal dentition by its unique cross section patterning. An elephant tusk cross section shows diamond-shaped striations, called “engine turning” and is unique to elephants.

Detailed explanation-2: -As 1 in 10 female elephants have one tusk or none, the trait must also be influenced by a second genetic factor. By comparing DNA from tusked and tuskless elephants, Princeton’s researchers then identified MEP1a, a gene involved in producing dentin-the core mineral in ivory.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ivory tusks are actually massive teeth that protrude well beyond the mouths of elephants. Like our own teeth-and those of many mammals-these tusks are deeply rooted. Much of the tusk is made up of dentine, a hard, dense, bony tissue.

Detailed explanation-4: -They are highly intelligent animals with complex emotions, feelings, compassion and self-awareness (elephants are one of very few species to recognize themselves in a mirror!).

Detailed explanation-5: -One characteristic that is really apparent with elephants-and with many other species-is that they can exude a wide variety of personalities. They can be bold or shy, laid-back or short-tempered, curious or afraid, and the list goes on.