Mosaic convergence of rodent dentitions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Understanding mechanisms responsible for changes in tooth morphology in the course of evolution is an area of investigation common to both paleontology and developmental biology. Detailed analyses of molar tooth crown shape have shown frequent homoplasia in mammalian evolution, which requires accurate investigation of the evolutionary pathways provided by the fossil record. The necessity of preservation of an effective occlusion has been hypothesized to functionally constrain crown morphological changes and to also facilitate convergent evolution. The Muroidea superfamily constitutes a relevant model for the study of molar crown diversification because it encompasses one third of the extant mammalian biodiversity.

Methodology/principal findings

Combined microwear

SUBMITTER: Lazzari V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2572836 | biostudies-literature | 2008

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature