The zoology of the voyage of H.M.S. Beagle [vol. 1 of 5] : $b Fossil mammaliaOwen, Richard
Science
The zoology of the voyage of H.M.S. Beagle [vol. 1 of 5] : $b Fossil mammalia
Owen, Richard
Beagle Expedition (1831-1836); Mammals, Fossil; Paleontology -- South America; Zoology
Many analogous examples will readily occur to the experienced
comparative anatomist. The Horse has been adduced as one to which
reference can very readily be made; but I would also cite the Sumatran
Rhinoceros, the skull of which, in the Hunterian collection, has already
been alluded to. In this species the anterior grinders, in both jaws,
are small and simple, and increase in complexity as they recede
backwards. The third superior grinder (fig. 8, Pl. V.) presents a single
fold of enamel, reflected obliquely forwards from the inner side
half-way across the tooth; the outer line of enamel describes a simply
undulating line. The opposite grinder of the lower jaw (fig. 9, Pl. V.)
has only one-half the breadth of the upper one, but has its grinding
surface further complicated by having two inflected folds of enamel from
the inner side, and one shorter and broader fold from the outer side.
This tooth, therefore, presents a close resemblance to one of the
posterior grinders of the lower jaw of the Toxodon, but differs
essentially in being of limited growth, and consequently in having
fangs.[15]
In speculating upon the nature of the organized substances which the
teeth of the Toxodon were destined to grind down, we must not only take
the structure of the tooth into consideration, but also the power of
perpetual renovation, which will compensate for the defective quantity
of enamel in the grinders of the Toxodon, as compared with those of the
existing Ruminants and Pachyderms, whose grinders, when once completed,
receive no further addition of dental substance at their base. The
Toxodon, in this character of its dentition, participated in the same
advantages with the Capybara and the Megatherium.
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