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selenolophodont tooth
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selenolophodont tooth

zoology
Also known as: selenolophodont teeth
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Quick Summary

A selenolophodont tooth is a type of mammalian cheek tooth characterized by complex, crescent-shaped ridges (lophs) formed by the fusion of cusps. This specialization is particularly associated with herbivores that graze on grasses. The development of these teeth involves an increase in crown height (hypsodonty) and the presence of secondary cement, which strengthens the teeth and makes them more resistant to wear. This evolutionary trend is seen in animals like horses, where premolars and molars become highly specialized and similar in form for efficient grinding. The term "selenodont" refers to the crescent shape of these ridges, distinguishing them from other tooth types like bunodont (low, rounded cusps) or lophodont (simpler ridges).12

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. perissodactyl - Teeth
  2. Selenodonta
  3. mammal - Teeth

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