This study was conducted to provide comprehensive information on the anatomical and histological features of the upper (UL) and lower (LL) lips of Rahmani sheep by gross examination, morphometric analysis in addition to Light and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Samples from normal healthy adult male sheep heads were collected directly after slaughtering. UL and LL were dissected, and specimens were collected for both light and SEM. The UL was longer approximately by one-fold and thicker by one-fold at the median and the oral angle areas, and by one- and half-folds at the paramedian area than the LL. The free border of both lips was characterized rostrally by the presence of labial projections. By SEM the edges of the inner aspect of the lips and of the philtrum were distinguished by labial projections. These projections which surrounding the philtrum subdivided into polygonal areas with numerous keratinized scales especially at the apical parts which increased dorsally toward the nostril. Most of the openings of the upper labial salivary glands were volcanic crater-shaped while that of the lower labial salivary glands were various shapes; round folded margin, rosette and whirlpool shaped. Histologically, the shape of the projection or papillae differs at the median and paramedian areas of the UL than the LL. However, there was no differences near the oral angle area. In conclusion, the shape, size and amount of keratinization of the papillae may offer efficiency to the lips during feeding process.
Keywords: SEM; labial salivary glands; sheep lips.
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