The saber-toothed cats are known for its iconic fangs which can grow up to 28 centimeters (11 inches). Before, scientists believed that their fangs are weak and of no good use on their hunt for their preys. However, researchers found evidence showing the real purpose of the extinct species fangs. The research published in the journal Comptes Rendus Palevol, suggests that the creatures were engaged in intra-species combat. The findings indicate that the fangs of the saber-toothed cats were strong enough and can even penetrate in one's bone.
Based on the study led by Nicolās Chimentoa and Federico Agnolin from the Natural Sciences Museum of Argentina, the punctured marks they found (both from Smilodom populator species) on a pair of saber-toothed skulls were inflicted by the same species. With these findings, it only suggests that the saber-toothed cats fight among themselves.
The analysis showed two punctures having an elliptical shape and located on the upper nasal area between the eyes. There was pressure exerted on the skull, given that each hole was slightly sunken. Additionally, since the specimen showed signs of healing thus suggesting that the saber-toothed cat survived for a long time, according to Gizmodo.
"The size and general contours of the injuries present in the specimen...are consistent with the size and contours observed in the upper canines of smilidon," stated the author.
"In fact, when a bade like upper canine of a Smilodon specimen is inserted through the described opening, both perfectly match in size and shape" he added.
"Based on the shape of the holes, it's not likely but not impossible that the punctures were caused by the kicking action of a hoofed prey animal, which has anywhere from two to four toes. The holes also didn't match the shape of a tooth from other predators such as bears- an animal that would have created a discuribly roundish puncture wound."
"The shape and general feature of the injuries suggest that they were inflicted by the upper canines of another smilodon individual during antagonistic interactions," explained the author.
The antagonistic interactions are possible for the saber-toothed cats. The same injuries can also be seen on other felines such as pumas, cheetah, panthers, and leopards. The injuries are often acquired because of the violent encounters between females and males. On the other hand, further evidence and study will still be needed to completely conclude these speculations.
Other studies have also evidence showing how saber-toothed cats with their fangs can slay other animals. The previous study implies the possibility of their species to hunt for the giant armadillo-like glyptodons. For this, it might be true that indeed the saber-toothed cats' fangs were strong and can penetrate one's bone especially their prey.
Reference: George Dvorsky, Punctured skulls suggest saber-toothed cats fought amongst themselves, retrieved from gizmodo.com
