Photoreceptor fine structure in Oreochromis niloticus L. (Cichlidae; Teleostei) in light- and dark-adaptation

The structure and arrangement of both light- and dark-adapted retinal photoreceptors of Oreochromis niloticus L. were studied. Eyes of four light-adapted and four dark-adapted O. niloticus were fixed routinely for light and transmission electron microscopy. Rods, single cones, and double (twin) cones were present in a ratio of 30:1:2, respectively. Light-adapted rods were tall, extending into the retinal epithelial layer. Rod inner segments showed a distal ellipsoid of mitochondria that narrowed dramatically in the myoid region. Dark-adapted rod inner segments were much shorter with a thicker myoid region, indicating photomechanical movement. Rod synaptic spherules were small, with both superficial synapses and invaginated sites. Single cones were similar to individual members of a double cone. Cone outer segments consisted of uniform discs with a single incisure. All cones displayed a short, tapering outer segment, a large ellipsoid of mitochondria, and a myoid region rich in organelles. Both members of double cones had extensive subsurface cisternae along their contiguous surfaces. Cone inner segments changed little throughout the circadian cycle, suggesting an absence of significant retinomotor movements. Large, vesicular cone nuclei were located adjacent to or through the external limiting membrane. The cones' synaptic pedicles had larger synapses than rod spherules, with more of both invaginated (ribbon) and conventional (superficial) synaptic sites. Cone photoreceptors were arranged in a repeating square mosaic pattern with a single cone surrounded by four double (twin) cones. The photoreceptors of the Nile tilapia presented basic piscine characteristics, and also some more species-specific features.