What is the primary function of the aardvark's powerful, spade-like forelimb claws?
Answer
Breaching the hardened, often concrete-like exterior of termite mounds.
The powerful forelimbs equipped with spade-like claws are essential anatomical tools tuned specifically for foraging success. These claws are primarily utilized to gain access to the aardvark's specialized prey by breaching the extremely durable, hardened exterior layers that enclose termite mounds. This digging capability is highly efficient; an aardvark can excavate through hard soil at a rate estimated up to 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) in just five minutes if rapid access is required, whether escaping danger or reaching a subterranean food source quickly.
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