Comparative Ultrastructure of Gastropod Cephalic Tentacles: Patellogastropoda, Neritaemorphi and Vetigastropoda

Authors: Künz E.¹; Haszprunar G.²

Source: Zoologischer Anzeiger, Volume 240, Number 2, July 2001 , pp. 137-165(29)

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Abstract:

The fine structure of the cephalic tentacles of the three major basal gastropod clades, Patellogastropoda (Docoglossa), Neritaemorphi, and Vetigastropoda, is described based on transmission and scanning electron microscopy. This was done to clarify cytological details and to provide data for functional considerations and for reconstructions of phylogenetic relationships. The ultrastructural characteristics of the sensory elements, supporting cells, and mucous cells of the cephalic tentacles differ considerably between taxa, whereas subepithelial cell types are remarkably uniform.

The epithelium of neritaemorphs and vetigastropods is generally characterized by ensheathing sensory cells forming ciliary tufts and by sunken, solitary, vestigial cilia, which are probably characteristic of all supporting cells. Patellogastropoda show plesiomorphic ciliary features that also occur in Bivalvia and Solenogastres. Vetigastropoda usually have papillary tentacles. The Neritaemorphi may be divided into two groups based on the fine structure of supporting cells.

Keywords: Mollusca; Gastropoda; sensory organs

Language: English

Document Type: Original article

Affiliations: 1: Institut für Zoologie der Leopold-Franzens-Universität Innsbruck, Austria 2: Zoologische Staatssammlung München, Germany

Publication date: 2001-07-01