Abstract
Radula morphology, tooth formation and chitin localization are investigated in four genera of Solenogas-tres and one genus of Caudofoveata using transmission electron microscopy. Radula teeth are secreted by groups of odontoblasts in the radula sheath. Tooth shape is determined by the arrangement of the odontoblasts and preformed by microvilli. Chitin is produced in the odontoblasts and is present in the teeth as well as in the basal material of Solenogastres and in the radula membrane of Caudofoveata. Because of its development pattern and its ultrastructural morphology the basal material is confirmed as being identical with the radula membrane. Mitotic activity in the basal epithelium is thought to support the forward movement of the radula.
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