Narwhal tusk research: science and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional ecological knowledge)

For centuries now people have puzzled over the narwhal's unicorn-like tusk, and just what purpose it serves.

The work of Dr. Martin Nweeia and science and Inuit colleagues involved with the Narwhal Tusk Research project (see further details at www.narwhal.org) has unearthed important new evidence.

Based on knowledge gathered during interviews with Inuit elders and hunters in Western Greenland communities (Disko Island, Hunde Ejland, Saaqaq, Uummannaq, and Qaanaaq) and in Nunavut communities (Pangnirtung, Broughton Island, Repulse Bay, Pond Inlet and Arctic Bay), and aerial surveys and satellite radio-telemetry, and some high-tech laboratory and field physiology tests, we know a lot more about narwhals than we used to. For example, it is now believed that tusk has significant sensory capabilities, with up to 10 million nerve endings inside.

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Tags:

• narwhal
• tusk
• arctic