Ologies with Alie Ward Paleohistology (WHY TEETH EXIST) with Yara Haridy
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Jan 21, 2026 
Join paleohistologist Dr. Yara Haridy, an expert in ancient tissues and teeth evolution, as she explores the surprising origins and evolution of our chompers. Discover how ancient tooth-like structures, known as odontodes, transformed into the teeth we know today. Yara also shares her unique paleontological journey, the excitement of fossil digging, and the rare effects of hormonal activity on dental health. Plus, hear about her work unraveling the mysteries of tiny fossils and the evolutionary tales they tell.
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Proto-Teeth Look Like Grape Nuts
- Haridi showed vials of tiny Cambrian/Ordovician odontode fragments that look like 'grape nuts' or 'rice grains.'
- Those minute, well-preserved pieces yield excellent histology and scanning data despite their size.
Fund Preparation, Not Just Digs
- If you want fossils conserved and studied, support specimen preparation funding and donors.
- Preparing fossils requires skilled labor and can be costly even when excavation is inexpensive.
Mammals Sacrificed Replacement For Precision
- Continuous tooth replacement was ancestral across vertebrates; mammals reduced replacement to two sets.
- Mammals likely limited replacement to maintain precise occlusion needed for specialized chewing.