Architectural pattern of different cells lining the olfactory epithelium of long-whiskered catfish, Sperata aor (Hamilton)‎

Abstract EN

The structural organization of the olfactory epithelium in Sperata aor was studied by light as well as scanning electron microscopy.

The elongated olfactory organ comprised of 52-54 primary lamellae assorted on both sides of narrow median raphe.

The middle dorsal part of the olfactory lamellae was characterised with linguiform processes.

Sensory and non-sensory areas were distributed separately on each olfactory lamella.

The sensory epithelium occupied in the middle linguiform process, whereas the basal part of lamellae was covered with non-sensory epithelium.

The sensory epithelium was composed of morphologically distinct two types of receptor neurons either ciliated or microvillous.

The non-sensory epithelium contained mucous cells and supporting cells with inconspicuous microridges.

The orientation of different cells lining the olfactory epithelium was discussed in light of their functional significance.