Anonymous

Defense mechanisms in all animals that have fingernails and toenails. After that it's moot.

Anonymous

modest protection for the end of the toe bones. They don't serve the original purpose of enhancing grip or providing a sharp defensive weapon, but they have not completely disappeared because there is still some benefit.

Anonymous

They don't serve a purpose at this point. They're leftovers from our simian ancestors, who used them to help climb, grasp items, etc.

Anonymous

Protection for the ends of the toes.