The evolution of humans has been revealed by the analysis of teeth of extinct animals.
The "surprisingly large" monkey lemur, Archaeolemur, had novel features not seen in living lemurs, such as a tooth comb in the front, according to the lead author.
The extinct lemurs are very different to the ones we have today. He says they show interesting similarities to monkeys and apes.
The aim of the study was to assess the diet of Archaeolemur by analyzing the frequencies of their teeth.
The results were surprising, with these extinct lemurs with dentitions resembling baboons in shape, but presenting tooth chipping patterns similar to fossil hominins.
Archaeolemur tooth chipping patterns are unlike any living primate, with their front teeth showing substantial fractures, often with numerous tooth chips on a single tooth, but very little chipping on their back teeth."
Neanderthals have similar tooth fracturing patterns. Neanderthals have fracture patterns that are thought to be related to tool use behaviors.
Evidence shows that the large and robust front teeth of Archaeolemur may have been used to process hard and tough food.
According to Dr. Towle, the study raises the possibility that stone tools don't explain the high rate of broken teeth in Neanderthals.
There is no evidence thatArchaeolemur were capable of using such tools.
Studying extinct primate gives us important insight into their diet and behavior.
It is not surprising that Archaeolemur was thought to be an ape when it was first discovered.
Archaeolemur is a great example of convergent evolution. The extent to which lemurs diversified into different ecological niches is highlighted by this species.
Ian Towle and his team have found tooth chipping patterns in Archaeolemur. The title is 10.1002/ajpa. 24674.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
