Tooth microwear and diet in the African Viverridae

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Abstract
Distinct tooth microwear patterns were observed in viverrids (Carnivora). Epoxy replicas of the upper tooth row of 32 specimens of 12 species of African viverrids were prepared and examined using a scanning electron microscope. Four general patterns emerged: (i) teeth with deeply scored grooves and scratches predominantly in the vertical direction, (ii) teeth with a preponderance of pits with little grooving or scratching, (iii) teeth with both pits and grooves, and (iv) teeth with lighter grooves running in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Microgrooves and scratches seemed to occur primarily in species that eat vertebrate food items while pitting appeared to occur mainly in those that eat invertebrate prey. The horizontal grooves are probably caused by the predator using the carnassial as a rake to remove flesh from prey while holding it between the forefeet.