An investigation into the distributive pattern, classification and functional role of the conical papillae on the posterodorsal surface of the cat tongue using SEM.

In order to examine the relationship between their distributive patterns, classification and functional roles, three-dimensional structures in the microvascular network of the conical papillae (CoP) on the posterior third of the central dorsal surface of the cat tongue were observed by the corrosion cast method under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). CoP can be classified into two types: small conical papillae (SCoP) and large conical papillae (LCoP), according to their shape, size and distributive pattern. On the posterior third of the central dorsal surface of the tongue, SCoPs are arranged in the form of six-eight straight lines running regularly from the posterior third of the central zone towards the pharynx. LCoPs are also arranged in the form of a V, with the point directed posteriorly, in oblique lines running in an orderly fashion from both the antero-peripheral zones to the central zone. To summarize CoPs play an important role in the drinking of milk and water, after mixing the food with saliva, in the transport of the food mass towards the pharynx and in swallowing it.