Project 5483: R. Hochberg, T. Q. Araujo, E. J. Walsh, J. E. Mohl, R. L. Wallace. 2023. Fine structure of the retrocerebral organ in the rotifer Trichocerca similis (Monogononta). Invertebrate Biology. 142 (1):null.
Specimen: Trichocerca similis Wierzejski, 1893 (unvouchered)
View: Resin mount DIC

Abstract

The retrocerebral organ (RCO) is a complex glandular system that is widely distributed across species of phylum Rotifera (sensu stricto). This system is hypothesized to secrete mucus that aids in benthic locomotion, adhesion, and/or reproduction. Unfortunately, the ultrastructure of the RCO is mostly unknown, having only been partially examined in one species. We used transmission electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy to describe the RCO in the planktonic freshwater rotifer Trichocerca similis. Results reveal the RCO to be a singular syncytial organ composed of a posterior glandular region, an expansive reservoir, and an anterior duct. The glandular portion has an active synthetic cytoplasm with paired nuclei, abundant rER, ribosomes, Golgi, and mitochondria. Electron-dense secretion granules accumulate at the anterior end of the gland and undergo homotypic fusion to create larger, more electron-lucent granules with numerous mesh-like contents that gradually fuse into tubular secretions that accumulate in the reservoir. Ultrastructure of these secretions suggests they may be hydrated glycoproteins. Cross-striated longitudinal muscles form a partial sleeve around the reservoir and may function to squeeze the secretions through the single cytoplasmic duct that penetrates the cerebral ganglion. A review of the RCOs from other rotifers suggests that further ultrastructural analyses are required before attempting to discern their functions and homologies.


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Article DOI: 10.1111/ivb.12396

Project DOI: 10.7934/P5483, http://dx.doi.org/10.7934/P5483
This project contains
  • 4 Media
  • 1 Taxon
  • 2 Specimens
Total size of project's media files: 35.16M

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MorphoBank Project 5483
  • Creation Date:
    27 August 2024
  • Publication Date:
    27 August 2024

    This research
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    Authors' Institutions

    • University of Massachusetts Lowell

    • University of Texas

    • Ripon College



    Members

    member name taxa specimens media
    Rick Hochberg
    Project Administrator
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