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Digestive Functions of the Large Intestine
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Structure and function of the digestive system in molluscs.

Alexandre Lobo-da-Cunha1,2

  • 1Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal. alcunha@icbas.up.pt.

Cell and Tissue Research
|September 4, 2019
PubMed
Summary

Mollusks exhibit diverse digestive systems adapted to varied diets across marine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats. This review details the histology and function of their digestive glands, crucial for nutrient absorption.

Keywords:
Digestive glandDigestive tractMolluscaSalivary glandsUltrastructure

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Area of Science:

  • Zoology
  • Comparative Anatomy
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • The phylum Mollusca is a highly diverse metazoan group with varied feeding strategies.
  • Molluscan feeding biology ranges from herbivory and carnivory to parasitism.
  • This diversity necessitates significant adaptive variations in their digestive systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the digestive system of the eight extant molluscan classes.
  • To highlight recent histological, ultrastructural, and functional data.
  • To emphasize the role of glandular tissues in digestion and absorption.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on molluscan digestive systems.
  • Analysis of histological and ultrastructural data.
  • Functional assessment of digestive and absorptive processes.

Main Results:

  • The molluscan digestive tract includes the buccal cavity, oesophagus, stomach, and intestine.
  • Associated glands include oral, salivary, oesophageal, digestive, and anal glands.
  • The digestive gland is paramount for nutrient absorption and digestion.

Conclusions:

  • Molluscan digestive systems display remarkable adaptations.
  • Glandular tissues, particularly the digestive gland, are key to nutrient processing.
  • Further research into histological and functional aspects is ongoing.