The order Tubulidentata comprises a distinctive group of mammals known for their unique dental structure—teeth made of countless tiny tubes. This specialized adaptation supports their burrowing lifestyle and insectivorous diet. Remarkably, the aardvark (Orycteropus afer) is the only extant representative of this order, linking them to ancient, fossil relatives that first appeared in the Paleocene.
- Unique “tubule-toothed” dentition not seen in any other mammal.
- Teeth lack enamel and are continuously replaced throughout life.
- Orycteropus afer is the sole living species, earning the order’s exclusivity.
- Fossil tubulidentates date back to the Paleocene, showing an ancient lineage.
Tubulidentate teeth are made of many small tubules of dentine, lacking enamel, unlike typical mammalian teeth.
Tubulidentates first appeared in the fossil record during the Paleocene.