Thecodonty
Thecodonty is a term used in paleontology to describe a type of tooth structure found in certain fossil vertebrates. The term is derived from Greek, where "theco" means "socket" and "odont" means "tooth." Thecodonty refers to teeth that are embedded in sockets within the jawbone, similar to the structure found in modern mammals. This tooth arrangement is characterized by the presence of a bony socket that holds the tooth in place, providing stability and strength.
Thecodonty is a key feature in the classification of fossil vertebrates, particularly in the identification of
The evolution of thecodonty is thought to have occurred as a response to the need for stronger,
Thecodonty is a crucial aspect of paleontological research, as it provides valuable insights into the evolutionary