Comparative Anatomical and Histological Adaptations of Lingual Papillae in Camels and Dogs

Abstract

 The present study provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of the anatomical and histological features of the tongue and papillae in the dromedary camels and household dogs of the species Canis lupus familiaris and is focused on the unique adaptations that evolved in connection with their diets and habits in the environment. The analysis included twenty individuals from both analyzed groups (ten representatives of each species) and aimed at comparing the data obtained from the experiments performed with the assistance of such techniques as gross anatomical dissection, light microscopy, histochemical staining (Hematoxylin and Eosin, Periodic Acid-Schiff), and scanning electron microscopy. Based on morphometric assessment, the camels were revealed to have the bigger tongue dimensions than dogs at a significance level of P < 0.05. From the point if histology, camels' tongues were characterized by severe hyperkeratosis, thick stratum corneum, high amounts of keratin pearls in the epithelium, and few values of gustatory papillae nosed. On the other hand, the canine tongue is notable for its ability to have a lot of sensory specialization, high density of both fungiform and vallate papillae with taste buds, and many Krause's end bulbs situated in connective tissue core as well as specific arrangement of papillae. The analysis through the scanning electron microscope has enabled significant differences in ultrastructure of keratinization patterns and papillae shapes in the studied species. The study suggests lingual structural variations as evolutionary adaptations to certain environmental and dietary challenges. This research can provide important information of the relationship between the tongue structure, feeding behavior, and the ecological niche of the species involved in the comparative morpho-anatomical studies and may have some possible applications in veterinary and zoological worlds.