Gross Anatomical, Histological, Histochemical and Scanning Electron Microscopic Examination of Glandular Stomach of Chinese Goose (Anser cygnoides)

Background: The digestive system is responsible for the intake, conversion and absorption of nutrients and the elimination of wastes from the body in order to provide the necessary energy for the continuation of vitality and functions. The aim of this study was to examine the glandular stomach of the Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) by histological, histochemical and scanning electron microscopic methods. Methods: The glandular stomachs of 12 (6 males and 6 females) healthy adult Chinese geese (Anser cygnoides) were used in the study. The tissues taken were subjected to routine histological procedures. Result: Gross anatomically, it was seen that the Proventriculus was a fusiform or spindle-shaped organ, extending along the median plane between the esophagus and the muscular stomach. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observations revealed that the glandular stomach surface of Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) contained many mucosal folds. Parallel grooves and proventricular gland openings were observed between these folds. Histologically, it was observed that the glandular stomach wall of Chinese goose (Anser cygnoides) consisted of four layers: tunica mucosa, submucosa, tunica muscularis and tunica serosa. The tunica mucosa was observed to have lamina epithelialis, lamina propria and lamina muscularis sublayers. Single layer prismatic cells secreting mucus were found in the lamina epithelialis layer. These cells showed local Alcian Blue (AB) pH:2,5 positive reaction. Lamina muscularis consisted of longitudinal smooth muscle fiber bundles. Compound, branched tubular glands were observed in the submucosal layer. Again, a regional AB positive reaction was observed in the lumen-facing parts of the tubular glands. Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) positive reaction was noted in the basal parts of the tubular glands. In Gordon-Sweet (GS) staining method, reticular threads easily distinguished in all areas where connective tissue present.