CHAPTEE 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 collectively 

 characterised 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 

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



THE GREAT ANT-EATER. 



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 

 characterised 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. 



