Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 12/23/2009 - 17:26
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Dissolved Organic Matter in Antarctica

You stated that the seals dig in the ice with their front teeth. What shape is their teeth for them to be capable to do this?

Sat, 12/26/2009 - 13:49

Sarah Diers

The shape of the incisors and canines are similar to ours, but they point slightly forward in the Weddell seal rather than straight up and down as human teeth do. It is believed that that wear and tear of the Weddell seal teeth may adversely affect their longevity. Once the teeth are worn it becomes more difficult to the seal to chew through the ice and also makes it more difficult to eat. Keep cool, Sarah