acrodont
/ˈækrəˌdɑnt/
adjective
- Having teeth attached to the top of the jawbone rather than in sockets, as in some lizards and snakes.
- Veterinarians studying acrodont dentition note that these animals cannot regrow lost teeth.
- The gecko is an acrodont reptile, so its teeth are fused to the jawbone.
- Unlike mammals, acrodont lizards have teeth that are simply attached to the surface of the jaw.
Antonyms
noun
- An animal, especially a reptile, that has teeth attached to the top of the jawbone.
- The zoo's reptile house has a special diet for acrodonts to protect their delicate teeth.
- The bearded dragon is an acrodont, so its teeth are fragile and easily damaged.
- Acrodonts like chameleons rely on their tongue rather than teeth for catching prey.