The Northern Pike, often called the “water wolf,” is a top-level predator known for its ambush attacks in freshwater systems. Pike possess a unique and extensive array of teeth. Understanding the structure and function of this dentition reveals why the pike is such an effective hunter in lakes and rivers across the Northern Hemisphere.
Anatomy of the Pike’s Mouth
The pike’s “duck-billed” snout houses hundreds of teeth, often numbering between 300 and 700 in an adult. This dentition is divided into two distinct groups. The most visible are the large, needle-like mandibular teeth lining the lower jaw, used for piercing and securing prey. These jaw teeth are interspersed with smaller, replacement teeth, allowing the pike to maintain sharpness.
The second set of teeth are located on the roof of the mouth and on the tongue, including the vomerine and palatine teeth. These are smaller and point sharply backward toward the throat. This backward orientation transforms the mouth into an effective trap. The teeth on the roof of the mouth and tongue are used to ratchet captured prey down the throat.
Role of Teeth in Predation
The dental arrangement is specialized for the pike’s ambush hunting style, relying on a sudden, powerful strike. The large, piercing jaw teeth secure a firm grip on the prey. The backward slant of the teeth prevents escape once the animal is caught.
If the prey attempts to struggle, the numerous, inward-pointing teeth dig deeper. The pike does not chew its food; instead, it uses its internal teeth to manipulate and guide the prey toward the esophagus for swallowing whole. This action involves a series of small, backward movements, effectively “walking” the meal down its throat. This specialized dentition ensures the efficient consumption of everything from smaller fish to small mammals and waterfowl.
Safe Handling Practices
The presence of sharp, backward-pointing teeth requires caution when handling a Northern Pike. The primary rule is to keep fingers and hands away from the inside of the mouth. Even a small pike can inflict deep cuts due to the extreme sharpness of its teeth.
Anglers should always use specialized equipment, such as long-nosed pliers or hemostats, to unhook the fish safely. A technique known as the “chin-grip” can be used for control by sliding a hand under the gill plate cover to grasp the lower jaw. Care must be taken to avoid the fragile gills. It is important to support the fish horizontally with a second hand under the belly, as vertical handling by the jaw can cause internal injury.