Morphological Development of the Opercular Apparatus in Kneria wittei (Ostariophysi: Gonorynchiformes) with Comments on its Possible Function
1997; Wiley; Volume: 78; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1111/j.1463-6395.1997.tb01134.x
ISSN0001-7272
Autores Tópico(s)Fish Biology and Ecology Studies
ResumoAbstract The structure, development and function of the male opercular apparatus were examined in the freshwater ostariophysan Kneria wittei using a combination of techniques (i.e. histology, SEM, skeletal clearing and staining). Specimens ranged in standard length from 10 to 65 mm. Morphological comparisons were also made between males and females, as well as comparisons with closely related taxa. Our study shows that the Kneria opercular apparatus consists of two structures: an opercular cup and a posteriorly positioned opercular flange, each of which is composed largely of connective tissue with keratinized papillae and ridges positioned on the surface. Our results further show that the development of the opercular apparatus is linked directly to the development of the anterior vertebral elements (i.e. epicentral intermuscular bones and neural arches). Understanding the function of the opercular apparatus must therefore include an understanding of its associated skeletal elements. As a result of our morphological observations two hypotheses for the function of the opercular unit are addressed; as an auditory specialization, and as an adhesive device. Copyright
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