Scanning electron microscopic study of the tongue in golden-headed lion tamarins, Leontopithecus chrysomelas (Callithrichidae: Primates)

Scanning electron microscopic study of the tongue in golden-headed lion tamarins, Leontopithecus chrysomelas (Callithrichidae: Primates)

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Leontopithecus is the largest genus of Callithrichidae, occupying 1964-1973 Doors isolated remnants of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil.The objective of this study was to investigate the ultrastructure of the dorsum of the tongue of golden-headed lion tamarins.Tongues of ten adult lion tamarins kept in captivity at the Center of Primatology of Rio de Janeiro (CPRJ-FEEMA) were analyzed under scanning electron microscopy.The three vallate papillae were distributed in a V shape, and each papilla was surrounded by a deep sulcus and an external pad; the medial papilla showed a round shape and the lateral one was elliptical.

The filiform papillae were shaped as a crown or as finger-like papillae, and were distributed throughout the tongue, including body mist the margins, except for the posterior region.The fungiform papillae were scattered among the filiform papillae, in a disperse manner, from the apex to the lateral vallate papillae.The foliate papillae had a typical ultrastructure, with folds that ranged in number from 1 to 3.With respect to vallate papillae, we identified the microridge and pore pattern on its surface.

Further studies are required to confirm the hypotheses on the ultrastructural aspects described for golden-headed lion tamarins.