Evolution
Bats use Blood for Tongue Erections and Better Feeding
The Pallas's long-tongued bat uses blood to change the shape of its mop-like tongue as it feeds in mid-air, researchers have discovered. High-speed video footage has revealed that an increased flow of blood to the tip of the bat's tongue causes scores of tiny hair-like projections to become swollen and erect, allowing the bat to maximise its nectar-gathering potential with each lap.Like the hummingbird, the Pallas's long-tongued bat ( Glossophaga soricina ) from South and Central America expends a great deal of energy hovering over flowers while lapping up nectar...
