Maximum number of teeth in a eutherian mammal is

Options

A. 50, Opossum
B. 44, Horse
C. 36, Lemur
D. 34, Kangaroo

Answer

To determine the maximum number of teeth in a eutherian mammal, we can analyze the dental formula and the options provided. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand Eutherian Mammals
Eutherian mammals, also known as placental mammals, are characterized by having a complex dental structure. They typically have a specific arrangement of teeth that includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

### Step 2: Know the Dental Formula
The dental formula for eutherian mammals generally includes:
- 3 incisors
- 1 canine
- 4 premolars
- 3 molars per quadrant

Since there are four quadrants in the mouth, we can calculate the total number of teeth.

### Step 3: Calculate Total Teeth
Using the dental formula:
- Incisors: 3 per quadrant × 4 quadrants = 12 incisors
- Canines: 1 per quadrant × 4 quadrants = 4 canines
- Premolars: 4 per quadrant × 4 quadrants = 16 premolars
- Molars: 3 per quadrant × 4 quadrants = 12 molars

Now, add them all together:
Total teeth = 12 (incisors) + 4 (canines) + 16 (premolars) + 12 (molars) = 44 teeth.

### Step 4: Compare with Given Options
The options given in the question were:
1. 50 (opossum)
2. 44 (hordes)
3. 36 (lemur)
4. 34 (kangaroo)

From our calculation, the maximum number of teeth in a eutherian mammal is 44, which corresponds to the second option.

### Conclusion
The maximum number of teeth in a eutherian mammal is **44**.

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