Pelophylax bedriagae (Anura: Ranidae)'nin Gastrointestinal Sistemine İlişkin Histolojik Bilgiler

In the present study, we carried out a comprehensive histological examination on the gastrointestinal system of a widely distributed frog Pelophylax bedriagae (Anura: Ranidae). The aim was to reveal the structural adaptations and functional properties of the digestive system of this amphibian species. The gastrointestinal tract consists of four main layers from inside to outside: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis externa, and serosa. The stomach structure of P. bedriagae's innermost mucosa layer consists of columnar cells that secrete mucus. The small intestinal features have deep folds and are lined with columnar and goblet cells. The large intestinal mucosa layer has smaller folds and is lined with columnar epithelial cells, with an increasing abundance of goblet cells noted from the small to large intestinal system. Notably, P. bedriagae's small intestine lamina propria also included abundant dense lymphoid aggregates, which may have a role in the immune defense of the frog. Overall, through a histological analysis of the digestive tract on P. bedriagae we have provided valuable information on the structural adaptations for digestion and uptake of nutrients for this amphibian species. These results contribute fundamental reference data to perform more effective research in amphibian anatomy and ecology.