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Dental function and diet in the Carpolestidae (Primates, Plesiadapiformes)
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|October 1, 1986
Summary
This study reveals a dual function of the Carpolestidae primate dentition, using microwear and morphometric analyses. Their specialized teeth performed slicing-crushing and Phase I shearing, indicating an omnivorous diet.
Area of Science:
- Paleontology
- Primate Paleontology
- Functional Morphology
Background:
- Microwear analysis is a common method for inferring primate dental function.
- The Carpolestidae family, an early Tertiary plesiadapiform primate, possesses a highly derived, bladelike lower dentition (P4 and M1 trigonid).
Purpose of the Study:
- To combine microwear and morphometric analyses to elucidate the dental function of the Carpolestidae.
- To investigate the function of the bladelike P4 and M1 trigonid in Carpolestidae.
Main Methods:
- Microwear analysis
- Morphometric analysis
- Facet analysis of dental wear patterns
Main Results:
- The P4 and M1 trigonid exhibit a dual function: slicing-crushing and Phase I shearing.
- A novel slicing-crushing preparatory cycle was identified, uncommon in mammals.
- Two new Phase I facets on P3,4 were discovered, resulting from derived tooth morphology and movement.
Conclusions:
- The specialized dentition of Carpolestidae facilitated both slicing-crushing and Phase I shearing.
- This dual function suggests an omnivorous diet, likely including invertebrates, nuts, and seeds with varied textures.