Tooth morphology of the maned sloth (Bradypus torquatus)

Abstract

The sloths are exclusively herbivores, feeding from leaves, flowers, sprouts, green stalks and fruits, just from two types of tree. The aim of this research was to explore the anatomy of the teeth comparing them with those of other mammals, besides those of man. Twelve animals were used, including males, females and stillborns, all of the species Bradypus torquatus. Macroscopic and radiographic exams were carried out, complemented by light microscopic technique of wasted and decalcification and scanning electron microscopy to analyses ultra structure components. The sloths are born with teeth already, presenting in each hemiarcade five teeth in the jawbone and four in the jaw, totaling eighteen in all. The morphology of the tooth in these specimens is strongly related to the alimentary habits and the whole dental arch (maxilla and jaw), presenting teeth with a similar shape and indicating that dental specialization does not exist. The teeth present lingual, vestibular, distal, mesial and occlusal faces, and the presence of "peaks” is marked. The components of the teeth are cement, internal, and external dentine and pulp. It is possible to identify tissue located between the cement and the external dentine containing tubules, which are continuous with those of the external dentine and the vascular channels of the internal dentine. This investigation can assist the search for answers as to what constitutes an appropriate alimentary diet for the animals in captivity.

Keywords

• maned sloth
• tooth
• morphology
• Bradypus torquatus