A tubulidentate is a mammal belonging to the order Tubulidentata, distinguished by their extraordinary dental structure—teeth composed of tiny, parallel tubes of dentine instead of enamel. This unique adaptation is perfect for their specialized diet and lifestyle. The only living members of this order are aardvarks (Orycteropus afer), which are renowned for their myrmecophagous diet, consuming vast amounts of ants and termites. Their teeth lack traditional enamel and are constantly replaced to handle the abrasive nature of their food. Thus, tubulidentates exhibit a remarkable blend of fossil-like characteristics and highly specialized modern adaptations.
- Unique teeth made of parallel dentine tubes, lacking enamel.
- Belong to the single-species order Tubulidentata.
- Aardvarks (Orycteropus afer) are the sole surviving tubulidentates.
- Specialized for a diet of ants and termites.
- Teeth are ever-growing and self-replacing to manage wear.
Tubulidentates have unique teeth composed of tiny, parallel dentine tubes and lack traditional enamel, unlike other mammals.
Aardvarks primarily consume ants and termites.