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Look at the images of the skulls in Table 1. Identify traits for each skull and mark them on the table below.

(1 point)
Hoplophoneus Mountain Lion Saber-tooth Cat
Long sharp teeth in the front of the mouth (not incisors/fangs)

The jaw can open past 45 degrees

Thin, tall ridge on the top of the skull

Extra long incisor teeth (fang teeth)

Ridge behind the eye socket

Wider nasal passage (heart-shaped nose hole)

1 answer

To help you identify traits for the skulls of Hoplophoneus, Mountain Lion, and Saber-tooth Cat, here's a description of the characteristics typically associated with each species.

Traits Table

| Trait | Hoplophoneus | Mountain Lion | Saber-tooth Cat | |---------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|--------------------------|---------------------------| | Long sharp teeth in the front of the mouth (not incisors/fangs) | Yes | No | Yes | | The jaw can open past 45 degrees | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Thin, tall ridge on the top of the skull | Yes | No | No | | Extra long incisor teeth (fang teeth) | No | No | Yes | | Ridge behind the eye socket | Yes | No | Yes | | Wider nasal passage (heart-shaped nose hole) | No | Yes | No |

Explanation of Characteristics:

  1. Long sharp teeth in the front of the mouth (not incisors/fangs):

    • Hoplophoneus: Typically has elongated carnassial teeth, which are not fangs.
    • Mountain Lion: Has typical carnivorous teeth, but may not emphasize sharp front teeth as much.
    • Saber-tooth Cat: Also has sharp teeth, especially canines, but less emphasis on the front teeth.

  2. The jaw can open past 45 degrees:

    • All three species can open their jaws widely due to their predatory nature.

  3. Thin, tall ridge on the top of the skull:

    • Hoplophoneus possesses this trait for enhanced muscle attachment for strong bites.
    • Mountain Lion and Saber-tooth Cat typically have different structural skulls that lack this emphasis.

  4. Extra long incisor teeth (fang teeth):

    • Saber-tooth Cat is known for its exceptionally long canines.
    • Hoplophoneus and Mountain Lion do not have this trait.

  5. Ridge behind the eye socket:

    • Both Hoplophoneus and Saber-tooth Cat show this adaptation, likely for muscle attachment related to jaw strength.

  6. Wider nasal passage (heart-shaped nose hole):

    • Mountain Lion tends to have a wider nasal passage for enhanced olfactory capabilities, while the others don't typically exhibit this form.

Please note that when dealing with visual identification, it's essential to compare images directly as variations may occur.