The structure of the hypothalamic inferior lobes of the blacktip reef shark: scanning and transmission electron microscopic observations.

ABSTRACT

The inferior lobes of the shark hypothalamus were examined with light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The cells bordering the floor of the lateral recess appear to be typical liquor-contacting neurons. With scanning electron microscopy (SEM) the apical ends of these cells are seen to bulge into the ventricular lumen. In contrast, the roof is lined by a more typical ependymal cell characterized by numerous cilia and microvilli. In addition, SEM reveals several kinds of supraependymal cells with processes that appear to penetrate the ventricular lining. A periventricular nucleus underlies the ependymal cells. Neurons of the periventricular nucleus contain numerous lipofuchsin granules. The rest of the inferior lobe consists of many neuronal fibers. The morphology of the hypothalamic inferior lobe is discussed in relation to its possible role in feeding and aggressive behavior in both elasmobranchs and teleosts.