Microstructure of the Olfactory and Vomeronasal Systems in Gloydius qinlingensis

The microstructures of the olfactory and vomeronasal organs in Gloydius qinlingensis were examined by a light microscope.The results showed that the olfactory system mainly consists of an olfactory organ and olfactory bulb;the vomeronasal system mainly consists of the vomeronasal organ and accessory olfactory bulb and they have separated absolutely to become two independent cysts.Vomeronasal organs are located in the interior side of the olfactory organ.In addition,olfactory organs are lined with sensory epithelium and respiratory epithelium.The Bowman's glands can be found in lamina propria under the olfactory epithelium of Gloydius qinlingensis;a large number of goblet cells exist in ventral respiratory epithelium.No Bowman's gland is found in its laminate propria.At the mid-nasal region,vomeronasal organ emerged and well-developed.Vomeronasal epithelium is obviously thicker than that of the olfactory epithelium.No vomeronasal gland exists in lamina propria.The mushroom bodys emerge in the vomeronasal cavity.