Fine structure of the dorsal lingual epithelium of Trachemys scripta elegans (Chelonia: Emydidae)

Turtles are adapted to different environments, such as freshwater, marine, and terrestrial habitats. Examination of histological and ultrastructural features of the dorsal lingual epithelium of the red-eared turtle, Trachemys scripta elegans, and comparison of the results with those of other turtles should elucidate the relationship between the morphology of tongues as well as the fine structure of lingual epithelia and chelonian feeding mechanisms.

Light microscopical (LM) and scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopical methods were used.

SEM revealed a distribution of lingual papillae all over the dorsal tongue surface. Single epithelial cells can be discerned, with short microvilli on their surface. LM studies show differences within the stratified epithelium between the lateral and the apical side of the papillae. In TEM, these differences become more obvious; while the basal and deep intermediate layer is similar in both sides of the papillae, mucus granules begin to form at the edge of the superficial intermediate layer at the lateral side. Cells containing fine secretory granules are visible there, too. On the other hand, at the apical side, only fine-granule-containing cells are visible.

This study indicates that the histology and ultrastructure of the lingual epithelium of Trachemys scripta elegans are similar to that of other turtles adapted to freshwater environments but differ from those of turtles living in marine or terrestrial habits. These differences can be explained in terms of the adaptation of turtles to their particular life circumstances.