First Data on Typhlosole of Ascidian Styela clava: Structure and Function

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Abstract

The ascidian Styela clava is an invasive species that easily colonizes new water areas and has wide distribution. We discovered a previously undescribed typhlosole, which was studied using histological techniques, transmission electron microscopy and computer microtomography. The typhlosole is a large fold of the dorsal intestinal wall, starting in the lower quarter of the stomach and continuing to the rectum. Its shape varies greatly: from a rounded protrusion to a spirally twisted fold. The typhlosole is formed by the intestinal epithelium, a thick layer of connective tissue in which the pyloric tubules and blood vessels pass. The epithelium is formed by glandular, ciliated, and non-ciliated cells demonstrating apocrine secretion. The typhlosole intensifies cavitary digestion and absorption of nutrients. The discovered features may contribute to high digestion efficiency even in low-productive waters, determining the biological success of this species.

About the authors

M. A. Kobeletskaya

Lomonosov Moscow State University

Author for correspondence.
Email: temereva@mail.ru
Moscow, Russian Federation

E. N. Temereva

Lomonosov Moscow State University

Email: temereva@mail.ru
Moscow, Russian Federation

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