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.