[Campbell Biology P.1156] The star-nosed mole Condylura cristata is described as relying on 2... | Practice Question

The star-nosed mole Condylura cristata is described as relying on 25,000 touch-sensitive receptors on its star-shaped appendages to find prey in total darkness. Which type of sensory receptor is primarily responsible for detecting the presence of prey through touch, and what form does the sensory information take as it travels to the brain?

  • A: Chemoreceptors; electrical signals
  • B: Mechanoreceptors; action potentials
  • C: Thermoreceptors; chemical signals
  • D: Electromagnetic receptors; nerve impulses

Explanation

The description of the mole's receptors as 'touch-sensitive' directly points to Mechanoreceptors, which detect touch, sound, and motion. The diagram also states that 'Sensory information encoded as action potentials is sent along specific paths axons ', confirming the form of transmission to the brain.