In a fascinating discovery, researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand have unveiled a new genus and species of dolphin from the late Oligocene period.
Their recent study delves into the unique dental features of this ancient marine mammal and speculates on its possible functions.
Ancient Dolphin with 42 Teeth
The remarkably well-preserved skull, belonging to what has been dubbed Nihohae matakoi (pronounced nee-ho-ha-eh ma-ta-koy), boasts a total of forty-two teeth.
Among these, a series of elongated teeth, including the incisors and canines, are arranged horizontally, creating an unusual display of tusk-like structures at the front of the dolphin's mouth.
The researchers carefully examined the skull morphology and noted its excellent preservation, which provided valuable insights into the potential feeding behaviors of this species.
The presence of a long, flattened face, unfused cervical vertebrae, and minimal wear on the teeth led the team to hypothesize that the tusk-like teeth were employed for injuring and stunning prey through rapid lateral head movements.
Interestingly, the lack of significant enamel wear on the remaining teeth suggests that this ancient dolphin did not consume abrasive prey or employ its teeth for foraging in sandy substrates.
Furthermore, the slender and delicate nature of the teeth indicates that they were unsuitable for processing large prey.
Back in 1998, an intriguing fossil was uncovered when a block became dislodged from a cliff in North Otago, New Zealand. Through subsequent analysis involving foraminifera and strontium isotopes, scientists were able to estimate the fossil's age at around 25.2 million years, placing it within the upper Duntroonian age (lower Chattian).
What the Dolphin's Name Means
The researchers made a deliberate choice in naming the newfound dolphin species, opting for the Māori language. They selected the term "Niho," which translates to "teeth," and combined it with "Hae," conveying the notion of "slashing," for the genus designation.
As for the species, they chose "Mata" to signify "face" or "point" and "Koi" to represent "sharp," drawing attention to the dolphin's remarkable long and flat face culminating in pointed teeth.
Among living dolphin relatives, only male narwhals possess a tusk-like feature. These magnificent creatures exhibit an elongated, unicorn-like "horn" that is, in fact, an extensively modified left canine tooth, continuously growing into a tusk.
The narwhal's tusk serves various purposes, including hunting, creating breathing holes in the ice, defense against predators, and potentially even sexual display. Additionally, the tusk is thought to function as a sensory organ, given its coverage of millions of sensitive nerve endings.
The discovery of Nihohae matakoi adds to our understanding of the remarkable diversity and evolution of marine mammals. By unraveling the mysteries of ancient creatures such as this unique dolphin species, researchers can shed light on the complex interplay between form and function in the natural world.
The findings of the team were detailed in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
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