Chapter 30, Problem 9A

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The mammals are the organism that carry the babies in their wombs and give birth to the young ones. The teeth are the hard-calcified structure present in the oral cavity, which help in the mechanical breakdown of the food. Based on the food habit, the animals have different sets of teeth.

Answer to Problem 9A

Correct answer:

Option (C).

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (C) Carnivore. The given dental structure represents presence of less molars and premolars along with sharp canines and incisors. The sharp canines are helpful in tearing the meat, so, the teeth structure represent a carnivore. Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option (A) herbivore. The herbivore organism have more premolars and molar and they are flat, these organism do not need sharp canine. Hence, it is an incorrect answer.

Option (B) insectivore. The insectivores are generally smalls mammals, they have small but strong canines, but the skull of the organism shown in the picture represents a big organism. Hence, it is an incorrect answer.

Option (D) detritivores. Most of the detritivores do not have teeth or have very small teeth. Hence, it is an incorrect answer.