Which mammalian group has molar teeth for grinding but lacks sharp canines?

Which mammalian group has molar teeth for grinding but lacks sharp canines?

• A. Carnivores
• B. Omnivores
• C. Herbivores
• D. Insectivores

Answer: (C)

Dentition reflects diet: when the chewing surfaces are broad and flat, built for grinding fibrous plant material, the animal is adapted for herbivory. These herbivores typically have little to no emphasis on sharp canines because catching and killing prey isn’t part of their feeding strategy, so the canines are reduced or absent. In contrast, carnivores show sharp, prominent canines for grabbing and tearing meat, omnivores have a mixed set of teeth for a varied diet, and insectivores often possess sharp, pointed teeth suited for piercing insects rather than grinding. So, the mammalian group with grinding molars and no sharp canines is herbivores.

Dentition reflects diet: when the chewing surfaces are broad and flat, built for grinding fibrous plant material, the animal is adapted for herbivory. These herbivores typically have little to no emphasis on sharp canines because catching and killing prey isn’t part of their feeding strategy, so the canines are reduced or absent. In contrast, carnivores show sharp, prominent canines for grabbing and tearing meat, omnivores have a mixed set of teeth for a varied diet, and insectivores often possess sharp, pointed teeth suited for piercing insects rather than grinding. So, the mammalian group with grinding molars and no sharp canines is herbivores.