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Story: Dolphins

Tooth cross-sections

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Tooth cross-sections

Scientists have been examining dolphins’ teeth to determine the age and health history of an animal. The growth rings visible in these tooth cross-sections relate to different rates of growth that may be seasonal, or affected by good or poor health and nutrition. These electron microscope images have been enhanced with colour to highlight the rings.

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Quekett Microscopical Club

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How to cite this page

Gerard Hutching, Dolphins – Hector’s and Māui’s dolphins, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/4678/tooth-cross-sections (accessed 24 June 2026).

Story by Gerard Hutching, published 2 March 2009, updated 1 September 2015.