Questions and Answers
What is the function of canines in herbivores?
What shape are incisors and what are they used for?
Chisel shape; used for gnawing and cutting.
What is the purpose of molars and premolars?
Used for grinding tough parts of plants (cellulose).
What is diastema and its function in herbivores?
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What is the size of the mouth opening in herbivores?
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Where is the jaw joint located and what does it allow?
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Study Notes
Dentition of a Herbivore (Horse)
- Canines: Pointed shape, reduced or absent in herbivores, serving no function.
- Incisors: Chisel-shaped teeth designed for gnawing and cutting plant material.
- Molars and Premolars: Broad and flat, specifically adapted for grinding tough plant parts, such as cellulose.
- Diastema: A significant gap between front incisors and premolars; enables food manipulation and temporary storage in the cheek, allowing for continuous eating without the need to chew each piece thoroughly.
- Mouth Opening: Relatively small, facilitating the intake of manageable plant portions at a time.
- Jaw Joint: Located above the molar line, permits extensive side-to-side and front-back jaw movement, but does not allow for vertical, up-and-down motion.
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Description
Explore the specialized dentition of herbivores, focusing on horses in this quiz. Understand the functions and structures of canines, incisors, molars, and the diastema. Test your knowledge of how these dental adaptations aid in their plant-based diet.
