Cell and Tissue Research

, Volume 184, Issue 4, pp 539–550 | Cite as

Observations on the gastric epithelium of ascidians with special reference to Styela clava

  • M. C. Thorndyke
Article
Accepted:

Summary

Transmission electron microscopy shows the gastric epithelium of Styela clava to comprise at least three distinct cell types. Ciliated mucous cells which form the crest of each stomach ridge produce mucus by an unexpected route. Vacuolated cells lining the ridge sides appear to be absorptive in function. Gastric enzymes are produced by typical protein secreting cells scattered amongst the vacuolated cells. Undifferentiated cells are found in the crypts between ridges. The structure and function of the gastric epithelium in Styela is discussed with special reference to the wider concepts of ascidian gut organization.

Key words

Ascidian (Styela clava) Gastric epithelium Structure and function 
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Copyright information

© Springer-Verlag 1977

Authors and Affiliations

  • M. C. Thorndyke
    • 1
  1. 1.Department of ZoologyBedford CollegeLondonEngland

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