DEVELOPMENT AND DIFFERENTIATION OF KERATINIZED ORAL ARMATURE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF VITAMIN A IN Bufo melanostictus STAGE 25 AND 30

Abstract

The effect of vitamin A on development and differentiation of oral armature with particular reference of Bufo melanostictus (schneider) tadpoles of stage 25 and 30 of this toad species. Stage 25 and 30 untreated group tadpole’s shows well developed horny jaw and horny denticles. Treatment of Vitamin A to the tadpoles stage 25 and 30 cause’s gradual degeneration in both horny teeth and jaws. Fifteen days continuous treatment causes complete degeneration of horny jaws and horny teeth. Tadpoles of discountinous treated group shows reappearance of horny jaws and horny teeth and shows well recovery from the degenerating effect of vitamin A. It has been found to affect differentiation of oral armature in the toad tadpoles and the effect is more severe on younger tadpoles as compared to the older ones.