Mosaic Convergence of Rodent Dentitions
Author Information
Author(s): Lazzari Vincent, Charles Cyril, Tafforeau Paul, Vianey-Liaud Monique, Aguilar Jean-Pierre, Jaeger Jean-Jacques, Michaux Jacques, Viriot Laurent
Primary Institution: Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution, CNRS UMR 5554, Université de Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
Hypothesis
The study investigates the evolutionary pathways of molar crown diversification in muroid rodents and how functional constraints affect tooth morphology.
Conclusion
The study reveals that the evolution of mammalian dentition is characterized by a mosaic pattern where chewing direction and crown shape can change independently due to functional constraints.
Supporting Evidence
- The study shows that the most derived functional condition in muroids associates longitudinal chewing and non-interlocking of cusps.
- Flattening of tooth crowns can occur before or after the rotation of chewing movements, indicating different evolutionary pathways.
- Convergent pathways imply distinct ontogenetic trajectories, necessitating further Evo/Devo studies.
Takeaway
This study looks at how rodent teeth have changed over time and shows that the way they chew and the shape of their teeth can change separately.
Methodology
The study used combined microwear and 3D-topographic analyses on fossil and extant muroid molars to quantify relationships between crown morphology and functionality.
Limitations
The study may not account for all evolutionary pathways due to the complexity of dental homoplasy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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