- Humans
- Cows
- Dogs
- Cats
- Horses
- Pigs
- Elephants
- Dolphins
- Whales
- Bats
Mammary glands are specialized exocrine glands that produce milk. Milk is a nutritious fluid composed of water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and various nutrients necessary for the growth and development of young mammals.
Among mammals, the structure and development of teats vary depending on the species. Some mammals have multiple pairs of teats, while others have only a single pair. The arrangement and position of teats can also differ between species. For example, humans and primates typically have two pectoral teats located on the chest, while cows and other ungulates have multiple pairs of abdominal teats.
Teats play a vital role in nursing, allowing the mother to provide nourishment and essential nutrients to her offspring. The young suckle on the teats to ingest the milk produced by the mammary glands.
In addition to their primary function in breastfeeding, teats also have other roles in certain mammal species. For example, in some ungulates, teats may serve as tactile stimuli for the newborn to help them locate and nurse successfully. In some male mammals, teats may also be present, although they are often non-functional or vestigial.
Overall, teats are characteristic features of mammals and are essential for nursing and nurturing their young.