Question
Question: Teeth of rabbits are A. Thecodont B. Diphyodont C. Heterodont D. All of the above...
Teeth of rabbits are
A. Thecodont
B. Diphyodont
C. Heterodont
D. All of the above
Solution
As we know that teeth are the hard ecto-mesodermal derivatives which are found in the buccal cavity and are mainly used for mastication of food. Every animal has different teeth based on their structure and function and they can be present in the bony socket of jaws in some animals.
Complete answer:
We have learnt that teeth are the hard ecto-mesodermal derivatives which are found in the buccal cavity of every organism and are mainly used for the mastication of food.
Tooth has three parts: the crown which is the visible part, the neck which remains embedded in gums and the root which remains embedded in the socket.
Let us now talk about the Dentition in mammals and it is basically of three types. The first one involves the phenomenon when teeth are classified as different types based on their function and structure and this set of teeth is called Heterodont teeth like rabbits.
Then comes the Thecodont teeth which are basically embedded or fitted in bony sockets of jaw such as rabbits.
Lastly we have Diphyodont teeth which involves two sets of teeth and these teeth can appear twice in lifetime like rabbits.
Hence, Mammals like rabbits possess all three of these dentition sets.
Therefore, from the above explanation we can say that the correct answer is (D).
Note:
Rabbits have a dental formula described as ICPMMICPMM=10232033 which gives a total of 28 teeth. Rabbits do not possess Canine teeth as they only eat soft food like grass and vegetables and their lower jaw is narrower as compared to the upper jaw. Tooth has a white shining capping which is called Enamel and this is the hardest substance of the body.