Ultrastructural organisation and functional aspects of the olfactory epithelium of Wallago attu (Bleeker)

Abstract

The topological architecture and functions of different cells of the olfactory epithelium in Wallago attu (Bleeker) have been systematically studied using a scanning electron microscope. The elongated olfactory rosette of the fish consists of 62 to 64 primary lamellae in each left and right rosette. Each lamella is provided with apical sensory epithelium and basal non-sensory epithelium. Topological analysis reveals that sensory epithelium contains receptor cells, ciliated supporting cells, labyrinth cells, and goblet cells. The non-sensory epithelium is made up of patches of ciliated supporting cells, epidermal or stratified epithelial cells with concentrically arranged microridges, and scattered goblet cells. Different cells on the olfactory epithelium support the view that the olfactory signalling is important to the survival of this fish in an aquatic environment.