The cutting-edge morphology of the mole snake's dental apparatus.

ABSTRACT: The mole snake (Pseudaspis cana) is capable of inflicting unusual bites in defence and during male combat that present as two parallel lacerations. We investigated the dental morphology of the mole snake by making SEM images, and by CT-scanning and digitally reconstructing the skulls of 14 specimens comprising both sexes. The lengths, volumes, shapes and positions of maxillary and dentary teeth were compared within individuals, between individuals, and between sexes. CT reconstructions show the occurrence of large, flat triangular teeth at the posterior end of the maxilla that are angled to point towards the posterior of the skull. SEM imagery highlights the presence of sharp ridges (carinae) on the posterior edges of the posterior dentary and maxillary teeth. Males have greater den

SUBMITTER: Evans AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6557247 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature