Mary Allen
Introduction: The Enigma of Turtle Teeth
Turtles are one of the most ancient groups of vertebrates, having been around for over 200 million years. Despite their long history, turtles have always been an enigma when it comes to their teeth. Unlike other reptiles, turtles have a unique oral anatomy that makes their teeth elusive to the naked eye. This has led to many questions about their dental anatomy and function, including whether or not turtles have teeth at all. In this article, we will explore the mystery of turtle teeth and provide an informative explanation about their anatomy, evolution, and function.
What are Turtle Teeth Made of?
Turtle teeth are made of a tough and durable material called keratin. Keratin is a protein that is also found in hair, nails, and hooves. Unlike the teeth of mammals, which are made of dentin and enamel, turtle teeth lack enamel and are instead covered by a layer of keratin. This makes them less hard and more prone to wear and tear. The keratin layer on turtle teeth is often transparent, making it difficult to see the teeth without a microscope. The teeth are also small and are located in the roof of the turtle’s mouth rather than the jaw. This means that they are not visible when the turtle opens its mouth.