engleski

Comparative dental pathology of Brown (Ursus arctos) and Cave bear (Ursus spelaeus)

Understanding of comparative odontology is extremely important component in studying of recent and extinct animal species. Such comparison of dentition can help us in understanding of their habits, evolution trends and adaptation to new life conditions. Inthis study, 11 skulls of brown bear (Ursus arctos L.) and 13 samples (parts of the skulls) of cave bear (Ursus spelaeus Rosenmüller & Heinroth) were analysed in order to determine dentition characteristics and type and frequency of dental pathologies. Based on the results obtained, parallels between dentition and diet were made pointing out on omnivorous diet in both species (with prevailing vegetable component). Of the variations observed a trend in reduction of premolars is obvious. If P1-3 were present in brown bear, they were smaller than expected and of irregular shape. On the other hand, first three premolars are regularly missing in cave bears. Supernumerary tooth (one case of P4) was only found in brown bear. Of other conditions, enamel crazing, tooth fracture, periapical pathology with abscessation and fistulisation were found (more frequently in brown bear). Signs of periodontal disease were determined in both species, and more frequently in cave bear. There was no statistical significance in frequency of different conditions, with exception of missing teeth, due to the fact that first three premolars of cave bear are regularly missing. Based on the observed dental morphology and pathologyin both species accompanied with literature data it can be concluded that both species were omnivorous, with the fact that ratio of herbs and protein dietexhibited seasonal variations. Diagnosis of dental pathologies in cave bears is influenced with different processes and mechanical impacts that occurred in any period between death of the animal and final analysis.

Brown bear; Cave bear; Comparative odontology; Dental pathology; Diet

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