How are the jaws of the Wolf Eel equipped for feeding on crabs and urchins?

The front features canine teeth for piercing, followed by rows of strong molars for grinding.

The feeding apparatus of the Wolf Eel is highly specialized, reflecting its diet which often consists of hard-shelled invertebrates like crabs and sea urchins, as well as abalone. This necessity for processing tough exoskeletons and shells dictates a two-part dental strategy. In the anterior (front) region of the jaws, the teeth are characterized as robust canines, which are effective for piercing and gripping the prey. Following these piercing teeth are rows of powerful molars situated further back in the mouth. These molars are optimized specifically for the function of grinding, crushing, and efficiently breaking down the hard components of their preferred sustenance, allowing them full access to the nutritional content within.