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
Although we have been enabled to observe the structure of the grinding
teeth of the upper jaw of the Toxodon in two examples only; one, an
insulated perfect grinder corresponding to the sixth alveolus on the
right side, and the other, a portion of the last grinder of the left
side remaining in the socket of the head previously described, yet from
the relations subsisting between socket and tooth, a very satisfactory
opinion may be formed of the structure of those teeth which are wanting,
as well as of their size. It thus appears, that the grinders of the
upper jaw of the Toxodon, are small and simple at the anterior part of
the jaw, and that they increase (chiefly in antero-posterior extent) in
size, as well as in complexity, as they recede backwards in the jaw. In
this respect, as well as in size, the teeth, in the fragments of the
lower jaw just described, exactly correspond. There is, however, a
slight difference in the lateral diameter of the two sets of grinders,
those of the lower jaw being narrower, as is usually the case, but not
in the same degree as in the Horse or Ruminant. A greater difference
obtains in the degree of curvature of the two sets of molars, those of
the lower jaw, especially the posterior grinders, being much less bent
than the corresponding teeth of the upper jaw. It is necessary to
observe, also, that the convexity of the curve of the inferior grinders
is directed outwards, as in the superior grinders; while in the Guinea
Pig and Wombat, which have also curved grinders, the convexity is
outwards in the lower jaw, and inwards in the upper jaw.
Nevertheless, if we take into consideration the close similarity which
exists between the teeth of the upper jaw of the Toxodon, and those of
this lower jaw in more essential points, as in their persistent pulps,
their characteristic structure and form, the depth of their sockets, and
their relative sizes and complexity; and when we consider how the depth
of this lower jaw, and its narrowness in the transverse direction,
corresponds with the characteristic form of the upper jaw of the
Toxodon, and that to these resemblances is added an apparatus of
incisors adequate to oppose the great dentes scalprarii of the upper
jaw, the conclusion seems irresistible, that the lower jaw, here
described, must be referred, if not to the same, at least to a nearly
allied species of Toxodon, as that to which the large cranium belonged.
Further researches in South America, it is hoped, will lead, ere long,
to the completion of our knowledge of the osteology of this very
remarkable and interesting genus of extinct mammiferous animals.
DESCRIPTION OF PARTS OF THE SKELETON OF
MACRAUCHENIA PATACHONICA;
_A large extinct Mammiferous Animal, referrible to the Order
Pachydermata; but with affinities to the Ruminantia, and especially to
the Camelidæ_.
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