Light and scanning electron microscopical studies of the tongue in the hooded crow (Aves: Corvus corone cornix)

Abstract

The present study provides descriptions on the morphological and histological structure of the tongue of the hooded crow (Corvus corone cornix) in relation to habitats and feeding habits. The tongue is a tall and arrow-shaped structure. Three parts are distinguished in the dorsal surface of the tongue: the apex, the body and the root. The lingual apex was bifurcated and many of acicular (needle-like) processes are found in both lateral sides of the anterior lingual part. These processes were mostly foliated. Moreover, a conical papillary crest with lateral giant papillae was located between the junction of the body and the root of the tongue. The histological structure of the caudal part of the tongue revealed numerous subepithelial mucous glands which extract their secretions on the dorsal surface of the tongue through narrow ducts. Numerous intraepithelial taste buds were reported in both rostral and caudal parts of the tongue. It was concluded that the morphological modification of the tongue of the hooded crow may be adaptations for the bird’s mode of food and feeding habits.