The anatomy and histology of the nasal cavities and the nasal salt gland in four species of fringed‐toed lizards, Acanthodactylus (Lacertidae)

The anatomy of the nasal cavities and lateral nasal gland (functioning as a salt gland) are similar in the four species of Acanthodactylus studies. Nasal cavities are not histologically different from those of other squamates. The vestibule is covered with a multilayered, stratified, squamous epithelium. The nasal gland is situated in the conchal space, lateral to the principal cavity and the vestibule. It is a tubular branched gland, highly vascularized. Innervation is derived from the N. trigeminus and was observed to reach only the anterior, small portion of the gland. The collecting duct opens to the vestibule, anterior to its connection to the principal cavity. Secretion of the nasal salt gland probably collects in lower anterior part of the vestibule. From there, liquid can either dry out while moistening the inspired air or be blown out by “sneezing.” Histological differences were observed between a non‐active and an active salt gland.