Final answer:
The facial nerve carries special sensory innervation to the anterior 2/3 of the tongue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The facial nerve carries special sensory innervation to the anterior 2/3 of the tongue. The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) is responsible for special sensory innervation of taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue.
The nerve that carries special sensory innervation for taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue is the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve is responsible for transmitting gustatory sensations such as salty, sour, bitter, or sweet tastes from the taste buds on the anterior portion of the tongue. The glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX) conveys taste from the posterior one-third of the tongue. Additionally, the facial nerve is involved in controlling facial expressions and salivation in the anterior oral cavity.