Question

In ox vallate papillae are

• A. 8-17 in number on either side of the caudal part of torus linguae
• B. 18-24 in number on either side of cranial part of torus linguae
• C. 8-17 in number on either side of the cranial part of torus linguae
• D. 18-24 in number on either side of caudal part of torus linguae

Hint:

To remember the distribution of papillae in ruminants, associate the torus linguae with the caudal aspect of the tongue where food is prepared for swallowing.
The glossopharyngeal nerve innervates this caudal region, which matches the position of the 8-17 vallate papillae on each side.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The tongue of domestic ruminants possesses specialized gustatory structures known as vallate (circumvallate) papillae.
These papillae are large, circular projections surrounded by a deep epithelial trench or moat containing serous Ebner's glands.
They house numerous taste buds along their lateral walls and are critical for gustatory perception in herbivores.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In the ox (Bos taurus), the dorsum of the tongue features a prominent, elevated muscular region called the torus linguae.
The vallate papillae are specifically located on the lateral aspects of the caudal portion of this torus.
They are arranged in an irregular double row on each lateral aspect of the caudal part of the torus linguae.
The number of these papillae typically ranges from 8 to 17 on either side.
This distinguishes the ox from other ruminants like sheep and goats, which generally have a different distribution of vallate papillae.
The location on the caudal part of the torus is anatomically significant as it aligns with the sensory field of the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the vallate papillae in the ox are 8-17 in number on either side of the caudal part of the torus linguae.