Elephants have more neurons than humans, particularly in their cerebellum. This part of the brain controls movement, coordination, and complex behaviors. The high neuron count supports precise trunk control and social interactions. Despite having fewer neurons in the cerebral cortex than humans, their overall neural capacity is extraordinary. Their brains are also highly folded, increasing processing power.
It matters because neuron count is linked to cognitive potential. Elephants are neurologically equipped for complex thought and emotion.
This challenges the idea that human brains are uniquely superior. Intelligence comes in many biological forms.
An elephant’s brain can weigh over 5 kilograms, making it the largest land mammal brain. Much of it is dedicated to sensory processing and memory.
Frontiers in Neuroanatomy (frontiersin.org)