Anatomical, histoarchitectural and topological studies on the olfactory organ of freshwater garfish, Xenentodon cancila (Hamilton, 1822)

The olfactory structure of Xenentodon cancila (Hamilton, 1822) were explored by advancement in microtomy, staining and ultrastructural practices. The unique feature of the olfactory system was that the olfactory cavity, an open groove with an obtruding sole lamella, no rosette like organization. The lamella was constituted of the central core, lined on both sides by well-organized epithelium. The central core usually consisted of connective tissue fibres and blood capillaries. The epithelium exhibited compact cellular distribution and made up of receptor cells, supporting cells, lymphatic cells, inner most basal cells and almost never mucous cells. Morphologically specific two types of receptor neurons were recognizable: ciliated and microvillous, comprising sensory terminals. The cellular constitution of olfactory mucosa was explained with olfactory sensitivity of the fish necessitated.