P-17 Interspecific and Ontogenic Differences in the Molar Occlusal Surfaces of Manatees (Trichechus)

Buller Hall 208

Manatees combat their abrasive herbaceous diet by continuously replacing their teeth along a horizontal axis, with new teeth added at the posterior end and older teeth falling out at the anterior end. To describe the teeth, we photographed and labeled features of manatee molars and premolars. We also measured molar occlusal area vs skull length to determine whether teeth increase in size as manatees age. The results determined that relative tooth size increases with age. This research will add to our understanding of manatee feeding ecology, which may allow us to better understand manatee diet and health and help provide improved habitats.