UPPER CANINE TEETH OF MUNTIACUS (CERVIDAE) WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO M-REEVESI

The morphology and age at eruption of the permanent upper canine teeth of Muntiacus reevesi show marked sexual differences (Chapman et al. 1 985). In females they are small but the males have tusks used as weapo ns. This paper refers to the examination of the teeth (mostly in situ, some extracted and a few histological sections) of several hundred an imals. Age-related efficacy of the apex and cutting edge, size and deg ree of root closure for tusks were reported by Chapman et al. (1997). Most significant for the social organisation and reproductive success of the males is the high incidence of fracture of the tusks which can result in loss of territory and access to females. By 3-5 years, 51% h ad broken one or both tusks. The form and structure of the teeth are d escribed and discussed in relation to their function, Further informat ion is required on the cause of breakage and on comparative data from other tusk-bearing cervids.