Avian Hard Palate
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BACK TO THE AVIAN DIGESTIVE TRACT
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
- Several rows of caudally facing conical papillae
- Long, narrow, median slit in the pharynx marks the infundibulum
Histology
- Numerous salivary glands are present in the submucosa
- Salivary secretions are mainly mucous with some amylase
- Thick layer of stratified squamous epithelium