Q. Go through the following statements regarding $Oryctolagus$ and select the correct option I. Denition is heterodont II. Canines are absent III. Herbivorous and diastema is present IV. Incisors are chisel like and poorly developed V. The dental formula is 2033/1023
A) I, II and III are true, while IV and V are false
B) III and II and V are true while I and IV are false
C) I, III and V are true while II and IV are false
D) All the above are correct
Explanation
Rabbit or Oryctolagus cuniculus best represents the class-Mammalia. Dentition in majority of the mammals is heterodont (i.e., dissimilar teeth). In humans, canine is pointed in each maxillary of upper jaw and each dentary of lower jaw, while in rabbit and other herbivores canines are absent. Hence, some part of the gums between the teeth remains teethless, i.e., gap is found between incisors and PM. Dental formula of rabbit is $I\frac{2}{1}C\frac{0}{0}PM\frac{3}{2}M\frac{3}{3} \times 2 = 28$
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.