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Science 17 May 1968:
Vol. 160. no. 3829, pp. 772 - 774
DOI: 10.1126/science.160.3829.772
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Articles

Cupulae in Shark Neuromasts: Composition, Origin, Generation

Albert L. Tester 1 and James I. Kendall 1

1 Department of Zoology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu

Cupulae on the surface of the sensory epithelium of canal neuromasts of the shark lateralis system have been demonstrated. They are mounds of mucoid material secreted primarily by the supporting cells of the neuromast epithelium. Individual columns of mucus in fixed, stained sections produce striations perpendicular to the neuromast surface. The hair of the sensory cell is embedded in mucus at the bases of coalescing columns produced by a group of surrounding supporting cells. There is evidence that mucus production is continuous and is accompanied by regeneration of secretory cells and elimination of necrotic cells at the distal surface. It follows that cupular material is being discarded either intermittantly or continually, along with trapped cell debris and other detritus.


THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
Shark Pit Organs: Enhancement of Mechanosensitivity by Potassium Ions.
Y. Katsuki and T. Hashimoto (1969)
Science 166, 1287-1289
   Abstract »    PDF »
Shark Pit Organs: Response to Chemicals.
Y. Katsuki, K. Yanagisawa, A. L. Tester, and J. I. Kendall (1969)
Science 163, 405-407
   Abstract »    PDF »


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