What was the likely primary function of Pelagornis's sharp, bony projections?
Answer
Grasping and securing slippery prey
The sharp, bony projections, or pseudoteeth, along the margins of the Pelagornis beak were highly effective tools designed for managing marine prey. Lacking the complexity of true teeth necessary for chewing, their interlocking, serrated nature provided necessary purchase to secure slippery targets like fish or squid encountered near the water's surface. This adaptation functioned like built-in gripping pliers, ensuring that once prey was spotted and grasped, it could not easily slip away before the bird secured its meal, reflecting a feeding strategy specialized for its ocean habitat.
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