A tooth wear scoring scheme for age estimation of the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) under field conditions

• Main Authors: Marti, Iris Andrea, Ryser, Marie Pierre
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Springer-Verlag 2018
• Subjects: 570 Life sciences; biology; 590 Animals Zoology; 630 Agriculture; Lynx; Lynx lynx lynx
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.7892/boris.129639; https://boris.unibe.ch/129639/

Within the framework of conservation actions for the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), ageing of individuals is required to assess suitability for translocation and to investigate population dynamics and disease epidemiology. We aimed to develop a standardised ageing tool for free-ranging Eurasian lynx, which would be non-invasive, time- and cost-effective, and applicable under field conditions. We used tooth pictures of 140 free-ranging lynx of known age from Switzerland. Tooth colour, calculus, number of incisor teeth and canine, premolar and molar tooth wear were recorded according to pre-defined criteria. Statistical comparisons among the categories of each criterion revealed significant differences for all criteria. Tooth colour and canine tooth morphology showed obvious and consistent alterations with age. Together with the molar tooth shape, premolar tooth tips, incisor teeth and amount of calculus, they pictured the age-related changes in lynx dentition. Crown fractures, enamel flaking and open pulp cavities were observed with an increasing prevalence over age but were also sporadically seen in juveniles. Based on the obtained results, we developed a classification scheme distinguishing six age classes: