SEM Studies on the Lingual Dorsal Surface of the Red-necked Phalarope

Abstract

The tongue of the red-necked phalarope was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tongue of the red-necked phalarope, which feeds on large plankton was toothpick shaped. Many processes were observed in the tip of the tongue. The lingual apex had a smooth surface, but the surface of the central region of the lingual body was rough. Large conical papillae were observed in the border region between the lingual body and root. The lingual shape of the red-necked phalarope resembles that of the Japanese pygmy woodpecker and the tip of the tongue resembles that of the brown-eared bulbul and Japanese white-eye.