| Abstract: | Within the primates the front dentition plays a major role in the classification of the different taxa. The extant strepsirhines are clearly characterized by the possession of a tooth comb. Tarsius differs in this complex by a construction which remembers the beak of an owl (vertically implanted medial incisors, upper pair bigger than mandibular pair). The front teeth of the extinct Microchoeridae are described. The dental formula of the group is discussed and compared with the Omomyidae. The wear pattern presents evidence of a dental comb as early as the Late Eocene. |
