The Overview of a Frog’s Tongue
A frog’s tongue is one of its most important elements, as it assists them in their main source of food – insects. As an amphibian, a frog uses its tongue to catch food with remarkable speed and accuracy.
Where is a Frog’s Tongue Attached?
A frog’s tongue is attached to the back of its mouth, and is connected to two cartilaginous structures, known as hyoid rods. This placement allows a frog to launch its tongue into the direction of an insect in less than a second.
How Does the Tongue Function?
The anatomy of a frog’s tongue is complex and tailored for quick food capture. Its tongue is flat, long, and sticky with a swing motion whereby a frog’s tongue captures food and then swings it towards the back of its throat.
Features of the Frog’s Tongue
- Muscles: The tongue is kept tense and ready for action through muscles in the floor of the mouth that are attached to the hyoid rods.
- Texture: Covered in a mucous membrane, the tongue has a rough texture that helps to trap the insect, allowing it to cling.
- Speed: A frog’s tongue can launch at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour, allowing it to catch even the swiftest of bugs.
In short, a frog’s tongue is attached to the back of its mouth and works with amazing speed to capture its prey. With its rough texture, muscles, and remarkable speed, a frog’s tongue is an efficient tool for survival in the animal kingdom.
