Armadillos are instantly recognizable mammals, mainly due to the bony, plate-like armor that covers their bodies. This unique feature often overshadows other fascinating aspects of their anatomy, leading to common misconceptions about their biology. The question of whether these armored creatures possess teeth is a frequent inquiry. A closer look at the armadillo’s mouth reveals a specialized dental arrangement that is unlike that of most other mammals.
The Simple Answer: Yes, But They Are Unique
Armadillos do possess teeth, but their dentition is highly specialized and significantly reduced compared to many other mammalian groups. The most notable difference is the complete absence of incisors and canines, the sharp teeth used for biting and tearing. Armadillos instead only have cheek teeth, which are a uniform series of molars and premolars. These cheek teeth are homodont, meaning they are all similar in shape, unlike heterodont teeth found in humans. The total number of teeth varies widely across the 21 extant armadillo species. The common Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), for example, typically has a total count ranging from 28 to 32 teeth.
Structure and Function of Armadillo Dentition
The teeth of armadillos are small, simple, and cylindrical, often described as peg-like, lacking the complex cusps found on the molars of omnivores or carnivores. This simple morphology is a defining characteristic of their specialized dentition. The most distinct structural feature is the near-total lack of enamel, the hardest substance in the mammalian body, which typically protects the tooth crown. Without this protective coating, the teeth would quickly wear down from constant use. To counteract this rapid erosion, armadillo teeth have evolved to grow continuously throughout the animal’s life. This perpetual growth is facilitated by open roots, ensuring the teeth are constantly replenished as the exposed surfaces are ground away.
Diet and Feeding Habits
The armadillo’s specialized dental structure directly correlates with its feeding ecology, which is predominantly insectivorous. The peg-like teeth are not suited for slicing or tearing but are perfectly adapted for crushing and grinding the tough exoskeletons of insects. Their diet mainly consists of small invertebrates, such as beetles, grubs, and the hard-shelled bodies of ants and termites. Armadillos are nocturnal foragers that rely heavily on their acute sense of smell to locate prey up to eight inches deep in the soil. Once the food is unearthed, they use a long, sticky tongue to capture the insects, much like their relatives, the anteaters. The simple teeth then function to mash and process this small, hard-shelled food before ingestion. Although primarily insect eaters, many species are opportunistic omnivores, and their teeth are sufficient to process small amounts of plant matter or carrion when necessary.