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Observations on the gametolytic gland in the anaspidean opisthobranchs, Phyllaplysia taylori and Aplysia californica
Author(s) -
Brandriff Brigitte,
Beeman Robert
Publication year - 1973
Publication title -
journal of morphology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.652
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1097-4687
pISSN - 0362-2525
DOI - 10.1002/jmor.1051410403
Subject(s) - biology , cytoplasm , endoplasmic reticulum , microbiology and biotechnology , lipid droplet , secretion , aplysia , mitochondrion , sperm , epithelium , anatomy , endocrinology , botany , neuroscience , genetics
The wall of the gametolytic gland in Aplysia and Phyllaplysia consists of a muscular layer lined with an epithelium incorporating four distinct cell types, some of which show intense secretory activity. The cytoplasm of these cells, rich in RNA, has a peripheral layer of densely‐packed mitochondria in association with a smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Lipid globules, perhaps resulting from absorption of lumen contents by microvilli, appear in the cytoplasm in the course of growth and reproductive activity. A basal band of fibrillar material appears to serve as a cytoplasmic skeleton. The elaboration of cell types, extensive areas of cytoplasmic RNA, and vigorous secretory activity suggest important roles for this organ such as development of food reserves, recycling of sexual materials of high physiological value, and interaction with the bag cells of the nervous system in coordinating ovulation with the availability of capacitated, exogenous sperm.