📖 what
What is a narwhal's tusk?
animalswhalesArctic
Quick Answer
A narwhal's tusk is actually a giant tooth — usually the left canine — that spirals out through the upper lip and can grow up to about 3 metres long.
The Full Story
Narwhals are Arctic whales, and the tusk is mostly found in males, though some females grow one. It grows straight out of the upper jaw in a left-handed spiral. Unlike most teeth, it is packed with nerve endings connected to the outside through tiny channels, and research led by dentist Martin Nweeia suggests it may sense changes in the surrounding water. Males also appear to use tusks in displays to rivals and females. Rarely, a narwhal grows two tusks.
Key Facts
1.The tusk is usually the narwhal's left canine tooth.
2.Tusks can reach about 3 metres in length.
3.Around 1 in 500 males is estimated to grow two tusks.
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The 'unicorn of the sea' has a tooth longer than a person — here's what it's for."