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Tooth cusp sharpness as a dietary correlate in great apes
1Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; Department of Anthropology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; Medical and Biological Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Hull, UK.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|November 15, 2013
Summary
Ape molar shape, specifically tooth cusp radius of curvature (RoC), differs between folivores and frugivores. Folivores have duller teeth, while frugivores have sharper teeth, impacting wear rates.
Area of Science:
- Primate paleontology
- Comparative dental morphology
- Paleoecology
Background:
- Mammalian molar morphology is extensively studied to understand diet.
- Tooth cusp radius of curvature (RoC) is a key occlusal feature.
- Previous research indicates a link between dental morphology and diet.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationship between tooth cusp RoC and diet (folivory vs. frugivory) in apes.
- To test the hypothesis that folivores have sharper teeth than frugivores.
- To investigate the correlation between tooth cusp RoC and tooth cusp size.
Main Methods:
- Measurements of eight tooth cusp RoCs were taken from 53 M(2) molars of various ape species.
- Species were categorized as either frugivorous or folivorous.
- Phylogenetically corrected ANOVAs and Principal Component Analyses (PCAs) were employed.
Main Results:
- Tooth cusp RoCs successfully differentiate between folivorous and frugivorous apes.
- Folivores exhibit significantly duller teeth (larger RoC) compared to frugivores.
- A weak, positive correlation was found between tooth cusp size and RoC.
Conclusions:
- Dental cusp shape varies predictably with diet in apes.
- Duller cusps in folivores may relate to differential wear rates and enamel exposure.
- Further research is needed to confirm these findings in smaller primates.
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