Scanning electron microscopic study of the tongue in the Jungle Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus)

The dorsal lingual surfaces of adult Jungle Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus) were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Macroscopically, the tongue of the Jungle Nightjar had a spearhead-like shape. Three parts were distinguished in the dorsal surface of the tongue: the apex, body, and root of the tongue. The tip of the tongue was round shape and a median groove is not observed. The dorsal surface of the lingual apex presented a smooth aspect and desquamation of the epithelial cells was observed on the surface of the lingual apex. Small and large conical papillae were observed on the lateral side of the lingual body. There were the giant conical papillae on the lateral side of the lingual body. The conical papillae of the lingual body were inclined toward the posterior of the tongue on the posterior end. Some openings of the lingual glands existed in the lingual root.