Structure and evolution of mammoth molar enamel

摘要: This work investigates the structure of Eurasian Plio–Pleistocene Mammuthus enamel, with attention to diagenesis and individual variability. A focal point this study was determine whether morphological trends in molars were accompanied by correlated enamel microstructure changes. In examined four taxa cheek teeth consists three layers delimited two major discontinuities prism direction. Noticeably, capping occlusal end unworn molar plates retains a less derived two−layered structure, similar that found basal proboscidean Moeritherium. meridionalis third deciduous premolar is differentiated from all other having more strongly decussating Hunter−Schreger bands middle layer, as possible reinforcement very thin enamel. Evidence analysis shows that, transition late Middle Pliocene M. rumanus Late Pleistocene primigenius, which made up prisms at an angle surface, pro− viding greater resistance against wear, increased its relative thickness. consistent hypothesis adapted abrasive diet. Comparison indicates schmelzmuster (enamel pattern) synapomorphy Elephantoidea.