You are given a jawbone of an unknown primate, and you notice that the anterior and posterior cusps of the lower molars form two parallel ridges. What might you conclude from this observation?
A) This is the mandible of a frugivore.
B) This is the mandible of a folivore.
C) This is the mandible of a cercopithecine.
D) This is the mandible of an ape.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of two parallel ridges (bilophodont molar pattern) on the lower molars is characteristic of cercopithecines, a subfamily of Old World monkeys. This dental pattern is adapted for grinding and is not typically found in apes, frugivores, or folivores in the same distinct manner.

You Are Given a Jawbone of an Unknown Primate, and You