CHAPTER XXXV 

 THE EDENTATES ORDER EDENTATA 



THE Mammals described in this chapter, which include the sloths, ant-eaters, 

 and armadillos of South America, together with two Old-World groups, are collect- 

 ively characterized by the total absence of front teeth, while in a few instances their 

 jaws are entirely toothless. Strictly speaking, therefore, the title of the group 



THE GREAT ANT-EATER. 



applies only to those of its representatives as present the latter feature; but if we 

 regard the term as indicating the absence of front teeth alone, it will be applicable 

 to the whole group, so far as existing forms are concerned. 



In addition to this absence of front or incisor teeth, the Edentates are also char- 

 acterized by the simple structure of their cheek-teeth, which are composed solely of 

 ivory and cement, without any trace of enamel. Moreover, these teeth never form 

 distinct roots, but grow continuously throughout life, and have their pulp cavities 

 open inferiorly. Then, again, these animals usually lack a functional series of milk- 

 teeth; although in two instances such teeth are developed which in one case cut the 

 gums and come into use. 



The foregoing are almost the only characteristics common to the whole of the 

 Edentates. It may be added, however, that all these animals are of a comparatively- 



(1373) 



