Supernumerary teeth in the European lynx, Lynx lynx lynx, and their evolutionary significance

Abstract

Supernumerary upper second deciduous premolars and lower second molars are reported in lynx, Lynx lynx lynx (L.), from Norway at frequencies comparable with the situation reported from lynx populations in other countries. Other authors have interpreted these anomalies as true atavisms in response to altered environmental conditions, and consequently as being contradictory with Dollo's law. The author suggests an alternative interpretation of the appearance of supernumerary teeth, which brings such phenomena in line with Dollo's law and the recent modern synthesis of evolution.