Microstructural characteristics and seasonal growth patterns observed in Metoposaurus krasiejowensis teeth

Abstract

The tooth microstructure of Metoposaurus krasiejowensis was studied to observe external morphology, internal microstructure (comprising dentine structure and directional porosity as possible predatory adaptations) and enamel/enameloid mineral composition. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation and thin-section inspection by light microscope enabled us to recognize a directional porosity in the tooth cross-sections, interpreted here as a part of the labyrinthodont structure displayed by temnospondyls and related groups. This network of canals is highly complicated and reveals a three-dimensional structure. The teeth present different cross-sections based on the distance from the tip, with a wide, circular, reinforced base and lateral compressed, directional cuspidal section with cutting edge. Interestingly, the internal structure observed in M. krasiejowensis teeth exhibit a peculiar variation of internal structure of temnospondyl teeth, as the convoluted canal-like structure seems to be irregular and appears in the upper section of teeth, while teeth bases show a regular structure with a pulpal cavity circled by pores. Furthermore, bands of incremental growth marks interpreted as Andresen lines, characterized by pronounced colour variation, were observed with strong implications for seasonal growth patterns in dentine. Additionally, a significant proportion (1.43–2.73%) of fluoride was observed as a component of enamel by scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) point and mapping analyses, suggesting a fluorapatite mineralogy of enamel.