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[Molar size sequence in seven species of Cercopithecidae]
Aichi Gakuin Daigaku Shigakkai Shi
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Molar size sequences in Cercopithecidae vary by genus, with Cercopithecus species showing more pronounced third molar reduction than Macaca and Colobus. This study analyzed molar dimensions to understand these evolutionary patterns.
Area of Science:
- Primatology
- Comparative Anatomy
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- The Cercopithecidae family exhibits diverse dental morphologies.
- Understanding molar size variation provides insights into primate evolution and adaptation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and compare molar size sequences across seven species within three genera of Cercopithecidae.
- To identify patterns of molar size variation and reduction, particularly in the third molar.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of mesiodistal and buccolingual crown diameters of molar teeth.
- Analysis using mean values, size sequences, and reductive indices (M2/M1, M3/M1).
- Categorization of molar size patterns into six distinct types.
Main Results:
- Molar size sequences varied significantly among genera: Macaca and Colobus predominantly showed Type II (upper) and Type I (lower) patterns.
- Cercopithecus species exhibited more diverse patterns (Types III, IV, V for upper; Types II, III for lower) and pronounced third molar reduction (Type VI).
- Reductive indices indicated significant reduction of the second molar in Colobus and the third molar in Cercopithecus compared to the first molar.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals distinct molar size sequencing patterns within Cercopithecidae genera.
- Cercopithecus demonstrates a greater degree of molar reduction, especially in the third molar, compared to Macaca and Colobus.
- These findings contribute to understanding the evolutionary pressures shaping primate dental morphology.