Summary
The fine structure of the so-called olfactory organ of Octopus vulgaris has been investigated. Electron microscopy shows the superficial layer of the epithelium to consist mainly of cells bearing microvilli. Below this, often very deeply, lie very many large cells, which bear numerous cilia. These cells open to the surface via narrow processes running between the epithelial cells. Although details of their innervation have yet to be established the large cells are assumed to be receptors and these findings are interpreted as evidence that this organ is indeed chemosensory.
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We would like to thank the staff of the Stazione Zoologica di Napoli for their help and excellent facilities; and the S.R.C. for financial support (a studentship to P.L.W. and grant B/SR/5287 to J.B.M.)
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Woodhams, P.L., Messenger, J.B. A note on the ultrastructure of the Octopus olfactory organ. Cell Tissue Res. 152, 253–258 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00224699
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00224699