Taste cells are essential for animals to detect and discriminate between different tastants in their environment. These cells are found in various taste organs, such as the tongue, palate, and pharynx. Taste cells are specialized chemosensory cells that respond to specific chemical stimuli and convert them into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain, where they are processed and interpreted.

Taste cells play a significant role in controlling a whole animal's foraging strategy. By detecting and discriminating between different tastants, animals can make informed decisions about what to eat and what to avoid. For example, if an animal encounters a food source that is bitter or sour, it may reject it because these tastes are often associated with toxic or spoiled foods. Conversely, if an animal encounters a food source that is sweet or salty, it may be more inclined to consume it because these tastes are often associated with nutritious and safe foods.

Taste cells can also influence an animal's foraging behavior. For instance, if an animal is deficient in a particular nutrient, it may seek out foods that are rich in that nutrient. This behavior is driven by the taste cells' ability to detect and respond to specific chemical stimuli.

In summary, taste cells play a crucial role in controlling a whole animal's foraging strategy by influencing their food preferences and foraging behavior. These specialized chemosensory cells enable animals to detect and discriminate between different tastants in their environment, which helps them make informed decisions about what to eat and what to avoid.