Study: Komodo Dragons Have Iron-Tipped Teeth

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Facts

  • Scientists have found a 'striking' and 'predatory adaptation' in the Komodo dragon: a layer of iron coating on its teeth, keeping its 'serrated edges razor sharp.'[1]
  • According to a paper published Wednesday in Nature Ecology & Evolution, iron in the cutting edge and tips of the world's largest lizard species' teeth stain them orange.[2]
  • The scientists claim this 'novel adaptation' gives the enamel of one of Earth's fiercest reptile species the extra strength to rip apart its prey.[3]
  • While some reptiles are known to have iron in their teeth, the finding of such a coating is new. Scientists believe the discovery could help protect the endangered dragons.[4]
  • This new finding could shed new light on not just existing animals but potentially on how extinct species like Tyrannosaurus rex hunted and consumed food.[5]
  • Besides exploring skulls and teeth at various museums, the team led by Dr. Aaron LeBlanc of King's College London, studied Ganas, a Komodo dragon at London Zoo.[6]

Sources: [1]Guardian, [2]CNN, [3]New Scientist, [4]BBC News, [5]Independent and [6]Imperial News.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by Daily Titan. The Komodo dragon faces a grim future due to climate change and human activity. With just over 1.3K mature dragons left, their Indonesian habitat is shrinking rapidly due to rising sea levels and agricultural expansion. Decision-making is urgently needed to preserve this iconic species.
  • Narrative B, as provided by The Jakartapost. The Komodo dragon has survived for millions of years because it requires little energy and can tolerate harsh environments. Therefore, the reptile’s endangered status — based on habitat loss due to rising temperatures and sea levels associated with climate change — should be reassessed.

Predictions