Showing papers in "Journal of Morphology in 1988"

Morphology and locomotor adaptations of the bovid femur in relation to habitat.

Abstract: Extant bovids inhabit a wide diversity of environments that range from forest to savanna and display locomotor patterns that are habitat specific. I report here on an investigation of the linkage between these locomotor patterns and habitat based on a study of the morphology of the bovid femur. Femoral head shape, shaft dimensions, and knee structure are examined and support a statistically significant separation of the different morphological complexes present in bovids from forest, broken cover, and savanna habitats. Morphological differences are primarily related to locomotor patterns as reflected in the degree of cursoriality displayed by bovids in different habitats. Cursorial bovids from savanna environments have laterally expanded femoral heads that act to limit the degree of abduction and axial rotation at the hip, and elliptically shaped distal femora that increase the moment arm of the extensor muscles that cross the knee. Forest bovids have spherically shaped femoral heads. This morphology permits a much higher degree of abduction and axial rotation at the hip and appears to provide greater maneuverability in a vegetationally complex habitat. Bovids living in broken cover environments that fall between the extremes of closed canopy forest and savanna display an intermediate set of femoral characters. This approach to the relationship between habitat and locomotion offers a potentially powerful means with which to examine the interplay between structural form and function in bovid evolution.

Muscular mechanisms of snake locomotion: an electromyographic study of lateral undulation of the Florida banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata) and the yellow rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta).

Abstract: Electromyography and cinematography were used to determine the activity of epaxial muscles of colubrid snakes during terrestrial and aquatic lateral undulatory locomotion. In both types of lateral undulation, at a given longitudinal position, segments of three muscles (Mm. semispinalis-spinalis, longissimus dorsi, and iliocostalis) usually show synchronous activity. Muscle activity propagates posteriorly and generally is unilateral. With each muscle, large numbers of adjacent segments (30 to 100) show simultaneous activity. Terrestrial and aquatic undulation differ in two major respects. (1) During terrestrial undulation, muscle activity in a particular region begins when that portion of the body has reached maximal convex flexion and ends when it is maximally concave; this phase relation is uniform along the entire snake. During swimming, however, muscle activity passes posteriorly faster than the wave of vertebral flexion, causing the relation of muscle activity to flexion to change along the length of the snake. (2) In the terrestrial mode, the block of active muscle segments remains approximately constant in size as it passes down the snake, whereas during swimming the number of adjacent active muscle segments increases posteriorly. Despite the fact that Elaphe obsoleta has nearly twice as many body vertebrate as Nerodia fasciata (240 vs. 125), the only difference observed in the swimming of these two species is that a larger number of adjacent muscle segments is simultaneously active in comparable regions of Elaphe obsoleta than in Nerodia fasciata.

Scanning electron microscopy of changes in epidermal structure occurring during the shedding cycle in squamate reptiles.

Abstract: Previous studies of squamate epidermal structure have focused on either histology and ultrastructure or oberhautchen surface texture as revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Using SEM data drawn from a variety of lizard taxa (primarily iguanids, but also agamids, chamaeleonids, and scincids), as well as amphisbaenians and colubrid snakes, we relate the surfaces encountered in gross dissection of squamate skin to histologically identifiable layers, and characterize their surface structure. Only the oberhautchen bears the repeating pattern of ornamentation noted by previous authors. Because the clear layer is a perfect template of the oberhautchen surface, it is the only layer with which the oberhautchen might be confused. However, the clear layer can be identified by its tendency to curl and crack during preparation. All other surfaces encountered were relatively featureless, except for impressions left by dermal "papillae" associated with mechanoreceptors. Using a method for examining preserved specimens to determine the stage in the shedding cycle, we assess two sources of variation in epidermal surface structure: stage in the shedding cycle and wear. Examination of immature renewal-phase epidermis suggests that the oberhautchen does not mature synchronously across a single scale or across body regions. Comparing inner- and outer-generation oberhautchen in sheddingphase epidermis, we conclude that changes in surface appearance caused by natural wear fall into two categories: discrete scratches and accumulation of debris. We see no evidence of overall "buffing" on a microscopic level, though surface structure may be obscured by scratches and gouges. Many squamate taxa show a gradient from low relief surface structure on elevated regions such as keels to high relief patterns at scale edges. This gradient is not due to wear; its significance is unknown.

Ontogeny of functional design in tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum): Are motor patterns conserved during major morphological transformations?

Abstract: The process of metamorphosis in tiger salamanders, Ambys- toma tigrinum, is used to investigate motor pattern conservatism in verte- brates. Specifically, we examined cranial muscle activity to determine if changes in the motor pattern are correlated with the morphological or environmental changes that occur at metamorphosis. Twenty-three variables were measured from electromyographic recordings from six cranial muscles in 13 tiger salamanders. These variables described the configuration of the motor pattern: the peak amplitude of activity, du- ration, relative onset, and time to peak amplitude were measured for each of the six muscles. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses showed that there was no change in the mean motor pattern associated with the morphological transformation at metamorphosis: larval and metamorphosed individuals feeding in the water have very similar motor patterns. This was true despite significant morphological changes in the design of the feeding mechanism at metamorphosis and despite a significant decrease in aquatic feeding performance following metamorphosis. There was a change in the mean motor pattern to jaw muscles when me- tamorphosed individuals fed in water and on land: metamorphosed terrestrial feedings tend to have longer bursts of muscle activity then do aquatic feedings. The environmental changes in the motor pattern cannot be attributed to effects of differing fluid density or viscosity between water and air and are instead related to the shift to feeding by tongue projection on land. The decrease in aquatic feeding performance that occurs after metamor- phosis is not correlated with changes in the motor pattern. Instead, the results suggest that changes in behavioral performance during ontogeny are asso- ciated with the transformation of hydrodynamic design of the feeding mech- anism from uni- to bidirectional, and that motor patterns driving complex rapid behaviors may be conserved when behavior is altered by changes in peripheral morphology.

Stages of oocyte development in the pipefish, Syngnathus scovelli.

Abstract: Oocyte development occurs in a temporal and spatial pattern in the ovary of the pipefish, Syngnathus scovelli. Cytological observations combined with [3 H]thymidine uptake and cell culture were used as criteria to identify six stages of oocyte development in this species. Stage I-Oogonia, found within the germinal ridge. Stage II-Oocytes in primary growth, subdivided into (1) chromatin-nucleolus oocytes in early prophase I of meiosis, also found within the germinal ridge, and (2) perinucleolar oocytes, which possess multiple nucleoli and are within definitive follicles (the Balbiani vitelline body is the main cytoplasmic component in these latter oocytes). Stage III-Oocytes distinguished by the appearance of cortical alveoli, the vitelline envelope, and lipid. Stage IV-Vitellogenic oocytes, which accumulate yolk proteins and possess primary, transitional, and mature yolk spheres. Stage V-Maturational oocytes, which are competent to undergo final meiotic maturation in vivo and in response to the steroid 17 α-hydroxy-20β-dihydroprogesterone in vitro. Stage VI-Ovulated mature eggs, which are present in the ovary lumen and are capable of being fertilized. These studies provide a staging series for oogenesis and oocyte development in the pipefish and relate these stages to the unusual ovary in this animal.

Cochlea in old world mice and rats (Muridae)

Abstract: Morphometric analysis of the cochlea was performed in wild and laboratory murids: Mus musculus, Apodemus sylvaticus, Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus, NMRI mouse, and Wistar rat. Results are based on light microscopic examination of surface specimens and serial sections and on three-dimensional computer reconstruction. The cochleae have 1.75-2.2 coils. The length of the basilar membrane varies from 6.0 to 12.1 mm. Mean density of outer hair cells ranges between 363 and 411, inner hair cells 98 and 121, neurons 1,230 and 1,760 per 1 mm. Following parameters change from base to apex: basilar membrane width 66.0 (+/- 8.2) to 175.0 (+/- 24.7) microns, basilar membrane thickness 17.0 (+/- 2.6) to 1.9 (+/- 0.1) microns, width of triad of outer hair cells 13.2 (+/- 0.7) to 28.8 (+/- 4.4) microns. The given numbers are mean "murid" values (with respective standard deviations). Maximum of dimensions of scalae is located at 10-15%, that of density of outer hair cells at 65%, density of inner hair cells at 2.8 mm, maximum of innervation density at 40-60% from the base. The following parameters are correlated with pinna size: length and maximum width of basilar membrane, dimensions of scalae, total number of receptors, and probably resolution capabilities. The following parameters are correlated with body size: maximum width of triad of outer hair cells, density and total number of neurons, ratio of neurons to receptors, apicobasal difference in basilar membrane stiffness and width of triad of outer hair cells; inversely proportional is receptor density and ratio of outer to inner hair cells and probably low-frequency cut-off. Thickness, and minimum width of basilar membrane and triad of outer hair cells and probably high-frequency cutoff are species-specific and independent of pinna or body size. The parameters mentioned indicate that the examined murids are acoustically unspecialized mammals and their cochleae approximate the generalized plan for a mammalian cochlea. Differences between domesticated and wild murids are stated.

Ocular morphology in antarctic notothenioid fishes.

Abstract: Beneath the sea ice at McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, noto- thenioid fishes are subject to extreme seasonal variation in the annual light cycle including 4 months of continual darkness. Gross and microscopic anat- omy of the eyes of 18 species revealed ocular morphology that was generally similar to that of coastal fishes elsewhere in the world, and unlike that of deep sea fishes living in perpetual darkness. The spectacle was well developed as were hyaloid arteries at the vitreoretinal interface. Fourteen species had a choroid body, and its presence was considered a primitive character state for notothenioids. The choroid body was absent in phyletically derived groups. The choroid body was especially large in Dissostichus mawsoni, the only species with a rod dominated retina. Retinae were 154-279 pm thick with layering and sublayering typical for teleosts. Although all species had both rods and cones, there was marked interspecific variation in the ratio of cones:rods and in the total number of visual cells. Non-Antarctic notothenioids from New Zealand had more visual cells than most species from McMurdo Sound. Retinae appeared balanced for vision under dim but seasonally variable light conditions and not specially adapted to the 4-month period of winter darkness. Retinal histology reflected the ecology and depth range of most species. Based on ecology and retinal histology, four groups of species were recognized: 1) Non-Antarctic, 2) cryopelagic (including two visually oriented benthic species), 3) pelagic and benthopelagic, and 4) benthic. The fish fauna of Antarctica is dominated by a single group of 100 species of perciform fishes composing the presumably monophy- letic suborder Notothenioidei (DeWitt, '71; Iwami, '85). It has been hypothesized that the ancestral notothenioid stock was associ- ated with the continent since the waters be- gan to cool 38 million years ago (Regan, '14; Norman, '38; DeWitt, '71). During a long pe- riod of isolation, notothenioids radiated to fill a variety of ecological niches normally occu- pied by taxonomically diverse fishes in tem- perate oceans (Eastman and DeVries, '81, '82, '85, '86; Eastman, '85a). Notothenioids are highly endemic, and constitute two-thirds of the fish species and 90% of the individuals in the Antarctic region (DeWitt, '71). Notothenioids living under permanent sea ice in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, experi- ence a unique variety of environmental con- ditions at 78" south latitude. For example, the waters of the Sound have a nearly con- stant mean annual temperature of -1237°C (Littlepage, '65). The body fluids of noto- thenioids are fortified with glycopeptide an- tifreeze compounds keeping them from freez- ing (DeVries, '82). There is extreme seasonal

Reevaluation of the caudal skeleton of some actinopterygian fishes: II. Hiodon, Elops, and Albula.

Abstract: The vertebral centra of Hiodon, Elops, and Albula are direct perichordal ossifications (autocentra) which enclose the arcocentra as in Amia. An inner ring of ovoid cells forms in late ontogeny from the intervertebral space inside the autocentrum. The chordacentrum is reduced or completely absent in centra of adult Elops, whereas it forms an important portion of the centra in adult Hiodon. The posterior portion of the compound ural centrum 3+4+5 is partially (Hiodon) or fully formed by the chordacentrum (Elops, Albula). The haemal arches and hypurals are fused medially by cartilage or bone trabecles of the arcocentrum with the centra, even though they appear autogenous in lateral view in Elops and Albula. The composition of the caudal skeleton of fossil teleosts and the ontogeny of that of Hiodon, Elops, and Albula corroborate a one-to-one relationship of ural centra with these dorsal and ventral elements. The first epural (epural 1) of Elops relates to ural centrum 1, whereas the first epural (epural 2) of Hiodon and Albula relates to ural centrum 2. In Albula, the first ural centrum is formed by ural centrum 2 only. With 4 uroneurals Hiodon has the highest number within recent teleosts. Juvenile specimens of Hiodon have eight, the highest number of hypurals within recent teleosts; this is the primitive condition by comparison with other teleosts and pholidophorids. Reduction of elements in the caudal skeleton is an advanced feature as seen within elopomorphs from Elops to Albula. Such reductions and fusions occur in osteoglossomorphs also, but the lack of epurals and uroneurals separates most osteoglossomorphs (except Hiodon) from all other teleosts.

Ultrastructure of trophoblast giant cell transformation during the invasive stage of implantation of the mouse embryo

Abstract: The fine structure of abembryonic and mural trophoblast cells of mouse embryos was analyzed during the initial stages of invasion of the endometrial stroma by the embryo (days 6-8 of pregnancy). On day 6 of pregnancy, most trophoblastic cells are flat and have spindle-shaped nuclei. A few large, round trophoblastic cells (giant cells) are present at the abembryonic pole. As pregnancy proceeds through days 7 and 8, the area occupied by the trophoblast becomes larger because of an increase in the trophoblastic cell population, growth of giant cells, and rearrangement of the latter cells into a network containing maternal blood. As flat cells transform into giant cells, their content of ribosomes, granular endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes, lysosomelike bodies, and heterophagosomes increases. Reichert's membrane is always lined by cell bodies or by laminar processes of trophoblastic cells that are provided with small pores. Transformation of flat cells into giant cells is associated with an activation of the giant cells and their acquisition of invasive behavior.

Organization of the vomeronasal organ in a plethodontid salamander

Abstract: Salamanders in the family Plethodontidae show a unique behavior (nose-tapping) and have unique structures (nasolabial grooves) that may be used specifically to convey chemicals to the vomeronasal organ. The nasal structure of Plethodon cinereus was studied to determine if there is enhanced development of the vomeronasal organ compared with other salamander families that would correlate with use of these unique features. The vomeronasal organ in salamanders is found in a ventrolateral diverticulum of each main olfactory organ. P. cinereus has a more anteriorly placed vomeronasal organ within the diverticulum, and the posterior limit of each nasolabial groove is adjacent to the anterior limit of the vomeronasal organs. This suggests that the grooves deliver chemicals preferentially to the vomeronasal organs instead of to the main olfactory organs. In addition, the vomeronasal sensory epithelium is thickest anteriorly and is at its thinnest at about the level corresponding to the location of the vomeronasal organ in other salamander families. These adaptations suggest a specific mechanism of odorant delivery to the vomeronasal organ in plethodontid salamanders not found in other salamander families.

Cellular organization and peritrophic membrane formation in the cardia (Proventriculus) of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract: The peritrophic membrane of Drosophila melanogaster consists of four layers, each associated with a specific region of the folded epithelial lining of the cardia. The epithelium is adapted to produce this multilaminar peritrophic membrane by bringing together several regions of foregut and midgut, each characterized by a distinctively differentiated cell type. The very thin, electron-dense inner layer of the peritrophic membrane originates adjacent to the cuticular surface of the stomadeal valve and so appears to require some contribution by the underlying foregut cells. These foregut cells are characterized by dense concentrations of glycogen, extensive arrays of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and pleated apical plasma membranes. The second and thickest layer of the peritrophic membrane coalesces from amorphous, periodic acid-Schiff-positive material between the microvilli of midgut cells in the neck of the valve. The third layer of the peritrophic membrane is composed of fine electron-dense granules associated with the tall midgut cells of the outer cardia wall. These columnar cells are characterized by cytoplasm filled with extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum and numerous Golgi bodies and by an apical projection filled with secretory vesicles and covered by microvilli. The fourth, outer layer of the peritrophic membrane originates over the brush border of the cuboidal midgut cells, which connect the cardia with the ventriculus.

On how the periosteal bone of the delphinid humerus becomes cancellous: ontogeny of a histological specialization.

Abstract: In cetaceans, the bones of the flippers lack a free medullary cavity and have a cancellous texture, with compact cortices reduced or absent. The present work discusses the ontogenetic basis of these characters in terms of the ontogeny of the structure and textural bone compactness (TBC) of the humeral diaphysis in a growth series of common dolphins (Delphinus delphis). The texture of the primary periosteal deposits is compact; soon after their accretion, the deposits undergo an extensive erosion that turns them into a cancellous tissue. A diffuse endosteal front of resorption expands in parallel with the growth of the cortex and acts as small units scattered within the cortices. Starting soon after birth and continuing throughout the life of the animals, the compactness of the periosteal cortex decreases at both general and local levels. This trend correlates strongly with the increase in size of the diaphyseal section and reflects the fact that relatively more bone is eroded than deposited during growth in the cancellous parts of the cortex. In the broad sense, this is basically an osteoporotic process, which is not identical, however, to senile or disuse osteoporoses.

Skull development during anuran metamorphosis: I. Early development of the first three bones to form--the exoccipital, the parasphenoid, and the frontoparietal.

Abstract: In anuran amphibians, cranial bones typically first form at metamorphosis when they rapidly invest or replace the cartilaginous larval skull. We describe early development of the first three bones to form in the Oriental fire-bellied toad, Bombina orientalis--the parasphenoid, the frontoparietal, and the exoccipital--based on examination of serial sections. Each of these bones is fully differentiated by Gosner stage 31 (hindlimb in paddle stage) during premetamorphosis. This is at least six Gosner developmental stages before they are first visible in whole-mount preparations at the beginning of prometamorphosis. Thus, developmental events that precede and mediate the initial differentiation of these cranial osteogenic sites occur very early in metamorphosis--a period generally considered to lack significant morphological change. Subsequent development of these centers at later stages primarily reflects cell proliferation and calcified matrix deposition, possibly in response to increased circulating levels of thyroid hormone which are characteristic of later metamorphic stages. Interspecific differences in the timing of cranial ossification may reflect one or both of these phases of bone development. These results may qualify the use of whole-mount preparations for inferring the sequence and absolute timing of cranial ossification in amphibians.

Form and function of the tongue in agamid lizards with comments on its phylogenetic significance

Abstract: The morphology of the tongue of agamid lizards is reviewed and discussed in the context of its functional and phylogenetic significance. It is shown that in several features, including the development of the central musculature of the tongue into a ring muscle and the presence of a genioglossus internus muscle in adults, the tongue in most agamids is derived relative to that in other squamates. In some features, such as the vertical connective tissue septa, agamids share primitive features with Sphenodon. Some conditions found in agamids are also found in anoline iguanids. Two genera, Uromastyx and Leiolepis, differ significantly from other agamids in intrinsic tongue musculature. The functional significance of the unique tongue morphology is that agamids utilize a different mechanism of tongue protrusion from that of other lizards. This mechanism involves the production of force against the lingual process, leading to an anterior slide of the tongue, and is detailed in this paper. Finally, I discuss the mechanical basis for the transformation series of tongue protrusion mechanisms from agamids to chamaeleonids. It is suggested that the mechanism of tongue protrusion in chamaeleonids is not unique, but is a highly derived state of the condition found in agamids.

Chondrocranium and ossification sequence of Hyla lanciformis.

Abstract: Tadpoles of Hyla lanciformis live in midwater and have a normal, beaked, anteroventral, subterminal mouth. Overall, they are generalized pond-type anuran larvae that show no specific modification for a particular habitat. The chondrocranium and ossification sequences of this hylid frog were studied, utilizing cleared and Alcian blue-alizarin red-stained tadpoles. The chondrocranium is similar to that of other unspecialized tadpoles. No larval otic process was found and a large process projecting from the otic capsule is considered homologous with the larval crista parotica described for other anurans. The pattern of cranial and postcranial ossification is reported. The sequence of cranial ossification is explained in the framework of functional changes of the skull through metamorphosis. Comparison with the available information for other hylid frogs shows clear differences in the ossification sequences. The sequence of postcranial ossification is described for the first time for any species of hylid frog.

A comparison of the structure of the spermatozoa and spermatogenesis of 16 species of patellid limpet (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Archaeogastropoda).

Abstract: Light and transmission electron microscopy of the spermatozoa and spermatogenesis of 16 species (in three genera, Patella, Helcion, Cellana) of patellid limpet have shown that head lengths of the sperm range from 3 to 13 μm, and each species has a sperm with a unique morphology, indicating that the spermatozoa can be used as a taxonomic character. Although spermatozoon structure is species specific, five types can be recognized, based on the size, shape, and structure of the nucleus and acrosome. The occurrence of five morphological types of sperm, one of which (Cellana capensis) is particularly different from other patellids, suggests that the taxonomy of the family Patellidae be re-examined. The morphological changes that occur during spermatogenesis are very similar in all species, although two patterns of chromatin condensation are found. Those species with sperm that have short squat nuclei (length:breadth 5:1) have an initial granular phase followed by the formation of chromatin fibrils. These fibrils become organized along the long axis of the elongating nucleus. The absence of a manchette suggests that nuclear elongation is brought about from within the nucleus.

The cleavage pattern in the leech Theromyzon tessulatum (Hirudinea, Glossiphoniidae)

Abstract: In order to evaluate the differences in the cleavage patterns of the glossiphoniid leeches Glossiphonia complanata and Theromyzon tessulatum, previously studied by Muller ('32) and Schmidt ('17, '41), the cleavage of Theromyzon tessulatum was reexamined. For the period of the first 29 hours of development embryos were observed, photographed, and serially sectioned for light microscopy at each developmental stage. The exact cell lineage until completion of teloblast formation is reported. Besides some other not previously reported features, we show that the mesoteloblast precursor cell in the glossiphoniid leeches, as probably in most Annelida, is not the cell 3D, but cell 4d formed by an additional division of cell 3D. The results further indicate that all glossiphoniid leeches likely share a common cleavage pattern, and that major differences between Glossiphonia complanata and Theromyzon tessulatum do not exist. A comparison between the cleavage patterns of some Oligochaeta and Hirudinea is made, and plesiomorphic characters in the cleavage of a clitellate ancestor species and their deviations in present day species are discussed.

Spermiogenesis in the red-ear turtle (Pseudemys scripta) and the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus): a study of cytoplasmic events including cell volume changes and cytoplasmic elimination.

Abstract: Nuclear and cytoplasmic volume changes as well as the elimination of residual spermatid cytoplasm were investigated in the red-ear turtle (Pseudemys scripta) and the rooster (Gallus domesticus). Nuclei of newly formed spermatids which were originally centrally located became eccentrically located within the cell in both species. Shortly thereafter the nuclear pole of the spermatid was found situated within deep crypts of a Sertoli cell. The cytoplasm of elongating spermatids was displaced along the nonacrosomal region of the nucleus and the proximal flagellum. In both species sheetlike Sertoli cell processes indented spermatid cytoplasm adjacent to the nucleus and appeared to segregate small packets of the cytoplasm. In the turtle, these packets of cytoplasm were separated from the spermatid. In both the turtle and rooster, a portion of the spermatid cytoplasm was displaced forward over the acrosomal region of the spermatid to resemble a hood. As spermatids were transported to the seminiferous tubular lumen, cytoplasmic lobes which projected forward of the spermatid head were formed by preferential flow of cytoplasm into one aspect of the cytoplasmic hood. In both species, at sperm release the cytoplasmic lobe was disengaged from the spermatid head to form a large residual body that was internalized and degraded within the Sertoli cell. Medium-sized cytoplasmic lobes were pinched from the head and neck region of the turtle and rooster spermatids, respectively. In the turtle, small-sized mitochondrial-rich cytoplasmic fragments budded from the caudal head and midpiece of the spermatids and were phagocytosed by the Sertoli cell. Thus, cytoplasmic elimination occurred through (1) segregation of cytoplasmic packets by Sertoli penetrating processes (turtle), (2) elimination of large and medium-sized residual bodies from the head (turtle and bird), and (3) budding of small mitochondrial-rich cytoplasmic fragments from the region of the midpiece (turtle). In the turtle a 79% reduction in total cell volume occurred during spermiogenesis which was the result of an 84% cytoplasmic reduction and a 78% nuclear reduction. During spermiogenesis, the rooster lost 97% of its total cell volume due to a 97% cytoplasmic volume change and a 96% nuclear volume change.

Sequence of ontogenetic development and atrophy of the oral apparatus of six anuran tadpoles.

Abstract: The development of the oral structures of six species of anuran tadpoles with four different types of mouth parts and the metamorphic atrophy of these structures in two species with different mouth parts are described. The oral labia of typical tadpoles, oral flaps of microhylids, and lateral oral folds of Rhinophrynus are assumed to be homologous. We also suggest that the barbels of the tadpoles of Rhinophrynus are homologs of the marginal papillae of species with an oral disc. Developmental patterns and sequences of the oral structures of all tadpoles examined follow a common pattern: stomodeal invagination, oral pad development, jaw sheeth delimitation, tooth row ridge development, jaw sheath keratinization, and labial tooth keratinization. Developmental patterns remain constant, while interspecific differences are apparent because of truncations of ontogeny at specific stages. Metamorphic atrophy of oral structures occurs roughly in the reverse order of development, although the procedure is rapid and more haphazard than development.

Ultrastructure of spermatozoa of the lung fluke, Paragonimus ohirai (Trematoda: Troglotrematidae), in the seminal receptacle

Abstract: The seminal receptacle of Paragonimus ohirai contains not only mature spermatozoa, but also atypical and degenerate ones, suggesting that abnormal spermatozoa are retained in this organ. The spermatozoon is of a parallel biflagellar type with cortical microtubules, consisting of the anterior region, first mitochondrial region, intermediate (amitochondrial) region, second mitochondrial region, posterior nuclear region (PNR) and tail region (TR). The first third of the spermatozoon exhibits typical undulatory movement, while the middle part shows vibratory movement. At the area between head and midsections (H-M area) the peripheral doublets of axonemes are interrupted, and the external ornamentation is distributed widely around this portion. Throughout the immotile PNR and TR, the axonemes lack the dynein arms of their peripheral doublets. H-M, PNR, and TR ultrastructural characteristics are specific in P. ohirai spermatozoon and seem to be closely related to its pattern of movement.

The buccopharyngeal mucosa of the turtles (testudines).

Abstract: Gross and histological examination of all extant families of turtles revealed that the buccopharyngeal mucosa is morphologically highly varied. The tongues of aquatic species have small lingual papillae or lack them entirely, while terrestrial species have tongues with numerous glandular papillae. The pharynx and the esophagus also have papillae in some species. These either facilitate swallowing in which case they are long, pointed, keratinized, and occur commonly in marine turtles, or they are vascular and nonkeratinized, facilitate respiratory gas exchange and are found in the Trionychidae, Dermatemyidae, and Carettochelyidae. The morphology of the buccopharyngeal mucosa of turtles reflects their diet, feeding behavior, habitat, and relationships. Convergence in the morphology of the buccopharyngeal mucosa occurs among families, especially among the Emydidae and other familes of turtles. Intergeneric parallelism is also seen within the Emydidae.

Paraphalangeal elements of gekkonid lizards: A comparative survey.

Abstract: Paraphalanges of gekkonid lizards are cartilaginous structures associated with interphalangeal joints. Their form and structure have been investigated by dissection, cleared-and-stained specimens, routine histoloty, and radiography. A family-wide survey revealed that paraphalangeal elements occur in at least 57 species in 16 genera of the subfamily Gekkoninae. The distribution and structure of these elements suggests multiple origins among gekkonine geckos. In most instances, they are present in species with expanded subdigital climbing pads, divided scansors, and a markedly raised penultimate phalanx that is elevated from, or free of, the pad. Thus, they seem to be associated with placement of the scansors onto the locomotor substrate. In two genera, Uroplatus and Palmatogecko, paraphalanges at the more proximal interphalangeal joints are associated with muscles that run between them. In these cases, the paraphalanges appear to be involved in grasping abilities of the foot associated with digging and climbing modifications.

Embryonic growth and trophotaenial development in goodeid fishes (Teleostei: Atheriniformes).

Abstract: Embryonic growth and trophotaenial development are examined in two species of goodeid fish, Ameca splendens and Goodea atripinnis. During gestation of A. splendens, embryonic dry mass may increase from 0.21 mg at the onset of development to 31.70 mg at term. In G. atripinnis, embryonic dry mass ranges from 0.25 mg at the onset of development to 3.15 mg at term. Increase in mass is primarily due to the uptake of maternally derived nutrients by trophotaeniae, externalized embryonic gut derivatives. Trophotaenial development in both species is divisible into five phases. During the first phase, the anus is formed. The second phase involves dilation of the anus, enlargement of the perianal lips, differentiation of the hindgut absorptive epithelium, and formation of the trophotaenial peduncle. The third phase is characterized by a further marked hypertrophy and lateral expansion of the perianal lips that results in the formation of short trophotaenial processes. During the fourth phase, there is continued outward expansion of the inner mucosal surface of the trophotaenial peduncle that results in its eversion and lobulation. Placental function is established by this phase. Axial elongation and dichotomous branching of trophotaenial processes occurs during the fifth phase. Development of rosette and ribbon trophotaeniae differ in the degree of axial elongation during the fifth and final phase.

Reproduction in the mexican leaf frog, Pachymedusa dacnicolor. IV. Spermatogenesis: A light and ultrasonic study

Abstract: Primary spermatogonia have highly lobate nuclei and can be distinguished as pale and dark types on the basis of nuclear and cytoplasmic features. Nuclei of secondary spermatogonia are also lobate. Primary spermatocytes have spherical nuclei and display synaptinemal complexes in late zygotene-pachytene. Spermatocytes are connected by intercellular bridges, which persist through spermiogenesis. During spermiogenesis no acrosomal granule is formed. The acrosomal vesicle is large and forms in the apical part of the cell. A helical system of perinuclear microtubules accompanies the phase of nuclear elongation. Microtubules disappear in late spermatids and there forms a compact bundle of filaments which extends into the subacrosomal area. These filaments probably derive from the breakdown of the microtubules. A mitochondrial sleeve is formed around the proximal portion of the tail and much of it is cast off in the mature spermatid. The tail is composed of a spirally coiled contractile element and a stiff fibrous axial rod connected together by an undulating membrane. The axial rod and the axoneme-associated rodlet derive from a dense, juxtacentriolar fibrous mass. Sertoli cells surrounding the spermatogonial and spermatocyte cysts are slender and have oblong nuclei. In contrast, those associated with spermatids are columnar and have deeply indented nuclei. They possess many Golgi complexes, elongated mitochondria, cisternae of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, lysosome-like bodies, masses of glycogen particles, few lipid droplets, and an array of microtubules running longitudinally around the elongating spermatid nuclei. Desmosomes are formed between adjacent Sertoli cells.

Quantitative electromyography of the masticatory muscles of Pteropus giganteus (Megachiroptera)

Abstract: Mastication has been studied by cinematography and quantitative electromyography while flying foxes, Pteropus giganteus, were freely feeding on standardized pieces of apple, soaked raisin, and banana. The primarily orthal mandibular movements are caused by mainly bilaterally symmetrical firing of all the masticatory muscles. Asymmetric activity in the superficial and deep masseter and medial pterygoid causes slight protrusion early in opening. Slight lateral deviations at the end of opening and at the start of closing are caused by asymmetric and asynchronous activity in the pterygoids and digastrics, and by asynchronous firing of the deep temporalis and zygomaticomandibularis. Food consistency affects movement characteristics as well as characteristics of muscular activity. In this study electromyograms were digitized and the number of spikes and mean amplitude per interval (set by the filming rate) recorded. Although a significant correlation exists between these descriptors, the product thereof appears to be the best predictor of certain kinematic variables (cycle length and maximum excursion of the mandible). On the other hand, the changes in magnitude of muscular activity as a function of the position of a cycle in the reduction sequence and as a function of food consistency are more translated in a variation of the mean amplitude than in a variation of the number of spikes per interval. Observed variation differs among muscles studied. It is most apparent in the superficial and deep masseter and least in the temporalis and zygomaticomandibularis. Late cycles of apple and raisin mastication are long and exhibit large gapes but almost no anterior movement. The adductor activity frequently shows a synchronized, pulsatile pattern leading to an unfused tetanus.

Multicellular complex of chloride cells in the gills of freshwater teleosts.

Abstract: Morphology of branchial chloride cells in the freshwater teleosts Plecoglossus altivelis, Cyprinus carpio, and Oreochromis mossambicus was studied by light and transmission electron microscopy. The chloride cell has an apical membrane directly in contact with the outer medium. Generally, two or more neighboring chloride cells share an apical pit, forming a multicellular complex. The chloride cells form a multicellular complex in which cells differ in cytoplasmic electron density, development of tubular system, and in cell size. Chloride cells are linked by junctions which are shallower than the tight junctions that occur between neighboring pavement cells or between pavement and chloride cells. Multicellular complexes of chloride cells create additional paracellular pathways marked apically by the shallower junctions. Since junctional structure affects transepithelial permeability, development of multicellular complexes of chloride cells in freshwater fishes may be related to the transport of some substances as in the gills of marine fishes.

Atavisms and the homology of hyobranchial elements in lower vertebrates.

Abstract: The homology of branchial arch segments in salamanders has been a matter of controversy since the last century. Many investigators term the most medial paired elements of salamander branchial arches "ceratobran- chials" and the next distal paired elements "epibranchials." This suggests that the first two segmental elements of the salamander branchial arch are not homologous with elements occupying the same position in ray-finned fishes, Latimeria, "rhipidistians," and lungfishes, in which these bones are called hypobranchials and ceratobranchials, respectively. Three lines of evi- dence suggest that it is more parsimonious to interpret urodele branchial arch segments as being homologous with those of other vertebrate clades-1) com- parative osteology, 2) comparative myology, and 3) the discovery of cartilagi- nous structures forming a third segmental unit that we interpret as atavistic epibranchials of the branchial arch in one population of the salamander Note phthalmus uiridescens. These structures possess all the defining attributes of atavisms, and illustrate the special role that atavistic features play in resolv- ing questions of homology recognition.

Afferent projections of the trigeminal nerve in the goldfish, Carassius auratus.

Abstract: The horseradish peroxidase (HRP) histochemical technique was used to examine the peripheral distribution and afferent projections of the trigeminal nerve in the goldfish, Carassius auratus. Sensory fibers of the trigeminal nerve distribute over the head via four branches. The ophthalmic branch distributes fibers to the region above the eye and naris. The maxillary and mandibular branches innervate the regions of the upper and lower lip, respectively. A fourth branch of the trigeminal nerve was demonstrated to be present in the hyomandibular trunk. Upon entering the medulla the trigeminal afferent fibers divide into a rostro- medially directed bundle and a caudally directed bundle. The rostromedially directed bundle terminates in the sensory trigeminal nucleus (STN) located within the rostral medulla. The majority of fibers turn caudally, forming the descending trigeminal tract. Fibers of the descending trigeminal tract termi- nate within three medullary nuclei: the nucleus of the descending trigeminal tract (NDTV), the spinal trigeminal nucleus (Spv), and the medial funicular nucleus (MFn). All projections, except for those to the MFn, are ipsilateral. Contralateral projections were observed at the level of the MFn following the labeling of the ophthalmic and maxillomandibular branches. All branches of the trigeminal nerve project to all four of the trigeminal medullary nuclei. Projections to the STN and MFn were found to be topographically organized such that the afferents of the ophthalmic branch project onto the ventral portion of these nuclei, while the afferents of the maxillo- and hyomandibular branches project to the dorsal portion of these nuclei. Cells of the mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus were retrogradely labeled following HRP application to the ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular branches of the trigeminal nerve. In addition to demonstrating the ascending mesencephalic trigeminal root fibers, HRP application to the above-mentioned branches also revealed descending mesencephalic trigeminal fibers. The de- scending mesencephalic trigeminal fibers course caudally medial to the bran- chiomeric motor column and terminate in the ventromedial portion of the MFn.

The role of cellular parenchyma and extracellular matrix in the histogenesis of the paruterine organ of Mesocestoides lineatus (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda)

Abstract: The cellular parenchyma of adult Mesocestoides lineatus consists primarily of muscle cells divided into myofibrils, myocytons with numerous greatly dilated cisternae of granular endoplasmic reticulum, and glycogen-rich myocytons with lipid droplets and membranous whorl inclusions. The latter are connected to each other by numerous gap junctions. Other mesenchymally arranged cells in the parenchyma are calcareous corpuscle cells. The extracellular matrix (ECM) consists of an electron-lucent ground substance and numerous filaments. During histogenesis of the paruterine organ wall, the myocytons surrounding the posterior end of the uterus undergo extensive flattening, followed by cellular deterioration. There is a concomitant reduction in ECM/cell ratio. The paruterine organ lumen dilates and then its uterine epithelium breaks down as the wall thickens, so that the late gravid paruterine organ consists of a thick wall of membranous sheets enclosing the egg mass. Parenchymal cells in other regions of the proglottid do not undergo change. These data provide evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal-ECM interactions in the development of an epithelio-mesenchymal organ in the Platyhelminthes.

Specialization in the diencephalon of advanced teleosts

Abstract: Cytoarchitectonic studies of the pretectum and diencephalon of five teleosts (Gaidropsarus mediterraneus, Syngnathus acus, Gasterosteus aculeatus, Pleuronectes platessa, and Coris julis) have shown the hypothalamus to be the most highly developed region in all five. The nucleus praeopticus magnocellularis is well developed in Coris and the euryhalines Gasterosteus and Pleuronectes; in Coris and Pleuronectes the nucleus lateralis tuberis is also prominent. Except in Gaidropsarus, however, the most striking area in the hypothalamus is the glomerulosus complex, with its voluminous nucleus glomerulosus. In Coris and Pleuronectes a glomerular offshoot of this nucleus in the dorsal thalamus is evidence of its being homologous with the nucleus anterior thalami of primitive teleosts. The nucleus diffusus is also very large in all except Gaidropsarus. In Coris and Syngnathus the saccus vasculosus exhibits a peduncle, and in Pleuronectes it invades the hypophysis. The descriptive analysis is complemented by measuring the relative size and cell density of the cell groups studied. A comparison among the five species studied shows that nuclei probably related to the olfactory system are more developed in Gaidropsarus and Pleuronectes, whereas the supposed visual nuclei are prominent in Coris, Gasterosteus, and Syngnathus but poorly developed in Gaidropsarus. In general, the findings of the present study, together with published results concerning Lizza (Gomez-Segade and Anadon, Trab. Inst. Cajal Invest. Biol. 72:187-214, 1981), show that Coris has the most complex diencephalon among these species. Moreover, Gaidropsarus presents an organization very different from that of the other five species and probably represents a parallel evolutionary lineage.