Variation of lymphoid activity in the spleen of a migratory bird, the pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca; Aves, passeriformes)

Journal of Morphology
Ragnar Fänge, B Silverin

Abstract

The size and microscopic structure of the spleen of the migratory pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) show marked changes during the reproductive cycle. Upon the spring return to their northern breeding sites, the birds have a small spleen with little lymphoid activity and a poorly developed red pulp. During the breeding period the volume of red and white pulp increases, the number and distinctness of lymphoid follicles (germinal centres) in the white pulp increase, and groups of cells with intensely basophilic cytoplasm, probably B cells (plasma cells), appear. The findings suggest that the immune system of the adult pied flycatcher is activated during periods when it is bound to the nest. Young flycatchers beginning their autumn migration also show a marked increase of lymphoid activity in the spleen.

References

Mar 1, 1972·The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine·H Hoshi
Dec 1, 1982·The American Journal of Anatomy·I Oláh, B Glick

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Citations

Jun 25, 2002·Proceedings. Biological Sciences·Charles R Brown, Mary Bomberger Brown
Nov 1, 1995·Journal of Pineal Research·R J NelsonL J Kriegsfeld
Feb 15, 2013·Proceedings. Biological Sciences·Christine R LattinL Michael Romero
Oct 1, 1996·Evolution; International Journal of Organic Evolution·Anders Pape Møller, Johannes Erritzøe
Mar 16, 2011·The Journal of Animal Ecology·Gregory E DemasSusannah S French
Jun 13, 2015·Oecologia·Chelsea A KorfelMatthew E Gifford

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