Kate Strasser
Research Mentor: Miriam Zelditch
Mentor Department: University of Michigan, LSA
Author(s): Not Available
Session: Session 3 (11:00 AM – 11:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 67
Abstract
Tooth morphology differences are thought to reflect differences among species’ diets. In particular, differences in the relative positions of cusps and ridges used to puncture and slice food may reflect differences in how an organism cuts, crushes, and grips its preferred foods. This project aimed to quantify the differences in tooth shape among squirrels and relate these variations to their diets, tooth functions, and evolutionary history. To achieve this, three-dimensional data were collected using calibrated cameras set up for stereography. This was followed by the digitalization of specific landmarks and curves found on the surfaces and edges of the teeth. By comparing the spatial arrangement of these landmarks among different squirrel species, conclusions can be drawn regarding how the species’ tooth morphology varies with diet. Results/findings will be presented later on.
