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Evaluating the “dual selection” hypothesis of canine reduction
Author(s) -
Plavcan J. Michael,
Kelley Jay
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
american journal of physical anthropology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.146
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1096-8644
pISSN - 0002-9483
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1096-8644(199603)99:3<379::aid-ajpa2>3.0.co;2-s
Subject(s) - reduction (mathematics) , selection (genetic algorithm) , biology , evolution of mammals , dual (grammatical number) , maxillary canine , anatomy , dentistry , medicine , computer science , mathematics , genetics , artificial intelligence , geometry , art , literature , gene
A recently proposed model for canine reduction in hominid evolution (the “dual selection” model) suggests that canine reduction occurs as a result for incorporation of the canines into a functional incisal field. Among the evidence used to support this model are patterns of wear and occlusion of the canine teeth, particularly in female anthropoid primates. We examined wear and occlusal patterns of the canine teeth of 311 male and female anthropoid primates. We find no evidence that the canines are typically occluded tip‐to‐tip, or that they show wear patterns indicating a “gripping and pulling” function during food ingestion and processing. Furthermore, we do not find compelling evidence that the development of the mesial cristid is associated with canine reduction. While we agree that the mechanisms of selective pressures underlying canine reduction need to be investigated, the “dual selection” hypothesis is unsupported by comparative data. © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.