Panda Knowledge

• Origin: When giant pandas were first discovered, their Chinese name was originally 'Mao Xiong' (貓熊, a bear resembling a cat). However, during the era when writing was done from right to left, it was misread as 'Xiong Mao' (熊貓), and over time, this mistake became the common name. • Genetic Mutation: Millions of years ago, during the evolutionary process, giant pandas experienced a mutation in the gene (Tas1r1) responsible for sensing umami. This mutation caused them to lose the ability to taste savory flavors and their interest in meat, leading them to become herbivores (primarily eating bamboo). Although their nature is carnivorous, they adapted to a vegetarian diet. • Low Digestion Rate: They still retain the short intestinal tract of carnivorous animals and lack the enzymes to break down cellulose. Their digestion rate for the dry matter of bamboo is only about 10% to 17%. Consequently, they must spend 14 hours a day continuously eating.