Authors : J.C. Shawulu, H.D. Kwari and A.Y. Abgyal
Abstract: This study was carried out to investigate the growth of the tongue and the morphological development of lingual papillae in Sahel goat fetuses using the light microscopy. A total of 20 fetuses of the Sahel goat were used. Evidence of scanty connective tissues and blood vessel formation was observed as early as 9-10 weeks of gestation. The least tongue weight and length were 104.7±63.2 g and 2.4±1.0 cm at 6-7 weeks of gestation. The highest was 645.3±310.0 g and 5.5±0.4 cm in 15-17 weeks old, respectively. Tongue mucosal epithelia were observed to be thickened with 4-6 layers of cells at 6-7 weeks of gestation. Papillary differentiations were evident with connective tissue and lamina propria underlying them by 12-13 weeks. By 15-17 weeks of gestation various papillae are distinguished by their heights and sizes. Ruduments of taste buds were also observed in vallate papillae at 15-17 weeks of age.
J.C. Shawulu, H.D. Kwari and A.Y. Abgyal, 2012. Pre-Natal Growth of the Tongue and Development of the Lingual Papillae in Sahel Goats (Capra hircus). Agricultural Journal, 7: 5-9.