What sensory mechanism appears to be used by sharks to selectively assess caloric content in carrion?

Answer

Feedback through teeth acting as mechanoreceptors

Great white sharks exhibit a sophisticated level of selective consumption, even when presented with an overwhelming food source like a whale carcass. Researchers have observed sharks shaking large pieces of carcass only to expel some portions, suggesting a selective process beyond mere indiscriminate gorging. This assessment is believed to occur through tactile feedback received via their teeth. The triangular, serrated teeth, while designed for tearing flesh, seem to function somewhat as mechanoreceptors when engaging with carrion. The feedback received during the tearing action allows the shark to make rapid judgments about the energy density of the tissue being processed, enabling precise energy budgeting even during scavenging.

What sensory mechanism appears to be used by sharks to selectively assess caloric content in carrion?

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