Question

Identify the papillae of the tongue shown in the histology image below (round-shaped papilla with surrounding moat/trench).

• A. Circumvallate
• B. Fungiform
• C. Filiform
• D. Foliate

Hint:

Look for the characteristic surrounding trench/moat and the associated serous Ebner glands in the histology slide to identify this large papilla.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Describe the histological image. The image shows a round/circular papilla with a surrounding groove (trench or moat) and serous glands (Ebner glands) opening into the trench. Taste buds are located in the lateral walls of the trench. This is the classic histological appearance of circumvallate (vallate) papillae.

Step 2: Classification and features of tongue papillae.
- Circumvallate (vallate) papillae: Largest type; 8-12 in number; arranged in a V-shape at the junction of anterior 2/3 and posterior 1/3 of tongue; each papilla is surrounded by a deep groove (vallum/moat); Ebner glands (serous) open into the groove to wash away food debris; taste buds are present in lateral walls of the groove.
- Fungiform papillae: Mushroom-shaped; scattered on dorsal surface; contain taste buds on upper surface; no surrounding moat.
- Filiform papillae: Cone-shaped; most numerous; no taste buds; mechanical function.
- Foliate papillae: Club/leaf-shaped; located on lateral margins of tongue; rudimentary in humans; parallel folds separated by grooves.

Step 3: Identify from the image. The round shape with a surrounding moat and the presence of taste buds in lateral walls = circumvallate papilla.

Conclusion: The papilla shown is the circumvallate (vallate) papilla.