Basophile (mast) cells in the alimentary canal of salmonoid fishes

Basophiilic granule cells which occur in vast number in the connective tissue throughout all regions of the alimentary canal of sockeye salmon and speckled trout are interpreted as histogenous mast cells. Their occurrence in several other species is noted. None could be found in blood or in any other organs. Their development from mesenchymal cells is described (speckled trout). Their function or possible relationship to functional conditions of the tract could not be determined. Experiments showed the granules to be quickly destroyed by acids and bases but not by water in the fresh condition, but they were extremely stable structures after Helly fixation. In living cells, the granules are probably fluid, and consist of proteins. There was no indication of the granules being composed of mucin, or of the cells being degenerated forms. The granules are basophilic at all times.