Phylodontology

Phylodontology is a proposed field of study that centers on the relationship between dental morphology and evolutionary history. The term combines phylo- or phylon, relating to lineage and evolutionary relationships, with odontology, the study of teeth. In this view, tooth form, development, and dentition architecture are treated as informative characters for understanding how species are related and how their feeding systems evolved.

Overview and methods: Phylodontology analyzes dental traits as data points in phylogenetic analyses, seeking to distinguish homologous from analogous features and to use teeth to infer relationships when other evidence is sparse. Methods commonly employed include cladistic analysis of tooth characters, geometric morphometrics of crown and root shapes, studies of dental wear and microwear, enamel and dentin microstructure, and imaging techniques such as computed tomography. Comparative anatomy across taxa and across fossil and extant species is a central component, with an emphasis on evolutionary context rather than sole descriptive description.

Applications: The field aims to reconstruct phylogenies for groups where teeth are diagnostic or particularly well-preserved, investigate transitions in diet and feeding strategies, and illuminate dental development and replacement patterns. It contributes to broader understanding of vertebrate evolution, including changes in dentition that accompany shifts in ecology and behavior.

Relation to other disciplines: Phylodontology intersects with dental anthropology, vertebrate paleontology, and evolutionary biology. It is sometimes used synonymously with dental phylogenetics or evolutionary dentition studies, though terminology varies by author and tradition.

Limitations and challenges: Dental homoplasy, convergence, and limited or fragmentary fossil material pose challenges. Ontogenetic changes and intraspecific variation must be carefully considered to avoid erroneous phylogenetic inferences. See also dental anthropology, vertebrate paleontology, and evolutionary biology.