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Which three teeth comprise the canine honing complex in extant apes?

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Final answer:

The canine honing complex in extant apes consists of the upper canine, the lower third premolar, and the upper third incisor, which work together to tear and process food.

Step-by-step explanation:

The canine honing complex in extant apes comprises three specific types of teeth which work together to process food effectively. These teeth are the upper canine, the lower third premolar, and the upper third incisor. The sharp upper canine is honed against the lower premolar, which has a sharp edge on the tongue side, often referred to as the honing facet. This sharpening action occurs when the jaw is closed in a specific way, allowing these teeth to effectively tear through tough or fleshy foods. The upper incisor plays a supportive role in this mechanism. This complex is an adaptation for dietary processing in primates, providing a combination of cutting and tearing capabilities.

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