Heterodontoid

/ˌhɛtərəˈdɑːntɔɪd/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or relating to heterodont teeth or the characteristic of having varied tooth forms.

Etymology

From heterodont plus -oid (resembling). A taxonomic term used in paleontology and comparative anatomy to classify extinct organisms by their tooth structure.

Kelly Says

Paleontologists can identify a fossil jaw as heterodontoid from just a few teeth, instantly telling them whether the ancient creature was an omnivore or specialist hunter.

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