Teeth and Jaws

Question 1

Heterodont

Answer 1

differentiated functional units

Question 2

Diphyodont

Answer 2

replaced once in lifetime

Question 3

Thecodont

Answer 3

teeth set in sockets

Question 4

What modification do birds have for increasing calories they consume? + features

Answer 4

avian beaks are modified jaws
Features: external nares, maxilla (external nares=nostrils), Rhamphotheca (gives protection, abrasion over lifetime), mandible ; Gonys, Tomia, Culmen

Question 5

What is beak morphology linked to?

Answer 5

Feeding ecology

Question 5

What study looks at beak evolution?

Answer 5

Darwins finches - Galapagos Islands
These finches were instrumental in Darwin’s formulation of the theory of evolution by natural selection

Question 6

Investigation of beak shape in the finches has lead to ground breaking studies in:

Answer 6

• adaptations and adaptive radiations
• speciation
• niche filling
• hybridization
• population responses to climate change
• strength and pace of natural selection
• the relationship between micro and macro-evolution