Studies of tooth implantation in fossil tetrapods using high-resolution X-radiography

Abstract

AbstractThe concept that reptilian tooth implantations fall neatly into a number of separate categories which can be used in phylogenetic studies is called into question. The use of microfocal X-radiography in preliminary studies of reptilian dentitions reveals that, at least in sphenodontids, there is no clear distinction between acrodonty and pleurodonty. Although the technique is used here specifically in connection with microvertebrates, it may have considerable potential in evaluating internal structures in a wide range of fossils.