Abstract
The histological observations on the barbels of Rita rita (HAM.) are reported. The maxillary barbel has epidermis and dermis surrounding a cartilaginous axis. The stratified epidermis embodies mucous cells, club cells and taste buds. The basement membrane lies in between epidermis and dermis except at the places of dermal papillae. The dermis is made up of connective tissue fibres and encloses nerve bundles and blood vessels.
The mandibular barbel has an identical structure. The mucous cells and club cells increase in number and size in the basal region of nasal barbel. The club cells appear first at the beginning of the flap.Only the lower half of the flap, facing the narial aperture, lacks in taste buds.
