Original scientific paper

Anatomy of the oropharynx and tongue of the African pied crow (Corvus albus)

Udensi M. Igwebuike ; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria
Ukamaka U. Eze ; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria

Abstract

An understanding of the anatomy of components of the digestive tract of the African pied crow would prove useful in relation to the medical, surgical and nutritional management of these birds, especially in captivity. The present study was designed to provide basic data on the morphology of the oropharynx and tongue of the African pied crow. Our results showed that the roof of the oropharyngeal cavity was formed by a cartilaginous hard palate, whose mucous membrane exhibited many caudally directed papillae. The tongue was located in the floor of the oropharyngeal cavity. The rostral and caudal parts of the tongue were demarcated
by a transverse row of caudally pointed papillae. The histology of the caudal part of the tongue revealed the presence of many mucous glands that discharge their secretions onto the dorsal surface of the tongue via ducts. Whereas the papillae may serve principally as mechanical obstacles to the involuntary return of food that has passed over them, the secretions of the glands may aid in swallowing by lubricating the caudal part of the oropharyngeal cavity and probably, the initial part of the oesophagus. It was concluded that the anatomical features of the oropharyngeal cavity and tongue of the African pied crow may be adaptations to the bird’s mode of food acquisition and feeding habits.

Keywords

oropharyngeal cavity; tongue; papillae; mucous glands; African pied crow; Corvus albus

Hrčak ID:

58466

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/58466

Publication date:

28.7.2010.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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