Poster Title
P-46 Florida Manatees Have Less Functional Teeth and Higher Levels of Mesowear Than Other Manatee Populations
Abstract
Florida manatees experience greater levels of mesowear and have less functional teeth than other manatee populations. Decreased functionality may mean they spend more time feeding and less time in other behaviors, decreasing their fitness. Skulls were analyzed in order to determine if there is variation in mesowear between manatee taxa. Average number of teeth, number of functional teeth, and mesowear were statistically analyzed in order to see if they vary between taxa. If they have significantly more worn teeth, Florida may not only be a marginal habitat because of the cooler winter waters, but also because of the greater dental burden.
Location
Buller Hall Lobby
Start Date
3-8-2019 2:30 PM
P-46 Florida Manatees Have Less Functional Teeth and Higher Levels of Mesowear Than Other Manatee Populations
Buller Hall Lobby
Florida manatees experience greater levels of mesowear and have less functional teeth than other manatee populations. Decreased functionality may mean they spend more time feeding and less time in other behaviors, decreasing their fitness. Skulls were analyzed in order to determine if there is variation in mesowear between manatee taxa. Average number of teeth, number of functional teeth, and mesowear were statistically analyzed in order to see if they vary between taxa. If they have significantly more worn teeth, Florida may not only be a marginal habitat because of the cooler winter waters, but also because of the greater dental burden.
Acknowledgments
Supervising Professor: Gonzalez-Socoloske