New microvillous cells with possible sensory function on the skin of sharks

Author: Peach, Meredith B.

Source: Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology, Volume 38, Number 4, Number 4/30 December 2005 , pp. 275-279(5)

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd

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Abstract:

Little is known about the skin surface of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), compared to the morphology of the overlying placoid scales. In this article the discovery of cells with numerous apical microvilli on the skin of sharks is reported. As the morphology of these cells is similar to various other sensory receptors, including solitary chemosensory cells in other fishes, it seems likely that they have a sensory function.

Keywords: Sensory; elasmobranch; shark; fish; chemosensory

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10236240500482416

Affiliations: 1: Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Technology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Publication date: 2005-12-30