Summary
The ultrastructure of the hepatopancreas and associated tissues of Limulus is described. All hepatopancreatic tubules contain L- and D-cells. L-cells exhibit apical pinocytosis and contain many different types of inclusions, including lipid containing calcium spherules of unique structure. They also produce a complex secretory product released by apocrine secretion. D-cells contain much rough endoplasmic reticulum, and show other evidence of active protein synthesis. They produce a single type of secretory granule released by merocrine activity. The appearance of L- and D-cells in tubules of various sizes and in fed and starved animals is described. Both cell types may produce digestive enzymes and absorb and transport nutrients to the hemolymph, but neither serves as a major storage site. Storage is an important function of the intertubular R-cells. The appearance of R-cells in fed and starved animals is described. A previously undescribed hemocyte is reported, as are apparent gap junctions between L- and R-cells. A structural and functional comparison of these glands with those of other arthropods is presented.
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Supported by NSF Grant No. GB-16607 and by the University of Minnesota Graduate School.
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Herman, W.S., Preus, D.M. Ultrastructure of the hepatopancreas and associated tissues of the chelicerate arthropod, Limulus polyphemus . Z.Zellforsch 134, 255–271 (1972). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00307157
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00307157