Out of the Mouths of Apes: Teeth Provide Insight on Evolution

The video discusses a study by George Washington University and NIST on how apes have evolved specialized teeth to handle fallback foods when their preferred fruits are scarce. The research highlights differences in tooth morphology among chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans, linking these adaptations to their dietary needs. Experiments conducted at NIST support the hypothesis that these adaptations are crucial for survival during tough times. The findings emphasize the importance of conserving both primary and fallback food sources for apes, as these are vital for their survival and evolutionary success.

What is the primary reason apes have evolved different tooth morphologies?

• To improve their appearance

• To handle different types of fallback foods

• To communicate with each other

• To attract mates

Which fallback food do gorillas primarily rely on when fruits are scarce?

• Nuts and seeds

• Leaves and tree bark

• Insects

• Fish

Why is it crucial for apes to have teeth adapted to fallback foods?

• To improve their vocal abilities

• To help them swim better

• To make their teeth look more attractive

• To ensure they can survive periods of food scarcity

What role did NIST play in the research on ape teeth?

• They conducted experiments on human teeth to develop models

• They supplied the apes for the study

• They published the research findings

• They provided funding for the research

What is a key conservation implication of the research findings?

• Ape teeth adaptations are irrelevant to conservation efforts

• Both fruit trees and fallback foods need protection

• Fallback foods are not important for ape conservation

• Only fruit trees need to be protected for ape survival