What is one characteristic of all strepsirrhines?

Prepare for the University of Toronto ANT100Y1 Introduction to Anthropology Midterm Test. Enhance your understanding with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Get ready for success in your anthropology exam!

The correct answer is that all strepsirrhines possess a dental tooth comb. This distinctive feature consists of a unique arrangement of their incisors that is adapted for grooming and feeding. The dental tooth comb is formed by the forward tilting of the lower incisors and canines, allowing strepsirrhines to efficiently groom their fur and remove debris. This grooming behavior is crucial for maintaining social bonds and hygiene within groups, which is a significant aspect of their social system.

Strepsirrhines, which include lemurs and lorises, are part of the primate family tree that is characterized by certain evolutionary adaptations. The presence of a dental tooth comb is a recognized trait within this suborder and distinguishes them from haplorhines, the other main group of primates that do not have this feature.

In contrast, characteristics like a dry nose or the ability to see in complete darkness are not inherent to all strepsirrhines, as some species have moist noses, and their ability to see varies widely among different species. Additionally, while some primates do have a fused lower jaw, this is not a definitive trait of strepsirrhines, as other primate groups may exhibit this characteristic as well.

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