Avian Hard Palate
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Introduction
The avian hard palate contains a slit-like opening called the choanal opening which communicates with the nasal pharynx. Air travels through the choanal opening into the infundibulum, then dorsally into the auditory tubes.
Structure and Function
There are several rows of caudally facing conical papillae. A long, narrow, median slit in the pharynx marks the infundibulum.
Histology
There are numerous salivary glands present in the submucosa. Salivary secretions are mainly mucous with some amylase. The hard palate has a thick layer of stratified squamous epithelium.
Links
Click here for more information on the hard palate.
Click here for the avian alimentary tract flashcards.