“Nostrils fascinate me, especially among wild creatures, which exhibit a wide diversity of designs for different purposes. In April 2016, I was momentarily mesmerised by the nose of an Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus, aka Buaya in Malay), as it was making its presence felt in the wild waters of Sungei Buloh (above).
“Its semi-circular nostrils could be closed (above) and open (below) at will to allow for inhalation and exhalation.
“A video clip of this local Buaya breathing at the water surface may be previewed as follows:”
Dr. Leong Tzi Ming
Singapore
15th June 2016
3 responses
Fascinating! Had no idea they could be physically closed from the outside.
It is important for the Buaya to be able to shut its nasal valves tightly, especially when diving underwater, so as to keep the water out. Otherwise, its lungs might get flooded.
So far, humans have not developed this ability just yet, as we have not spent enough time in the waters . . .
This would be a handy skill for swimmers like me!