Morphometric and histological study of the gastroesophageal tract of the true Parrot (Amazona aestiva Linnaeus, 1758) found in captivity and its importance for biodiversity
Psittacidae, digestive system, morphology, 5-HT cells
This study aimed to describe morphological aspects of the gastroesophageal tract of Amazona
aestiva (Linnaeus, 1758). Structures were described to add new information about the
morphology of the digestive tract, thus contributing to conservation, through "ex-situs"
studies and in the management and clinical of this species. These animals are considered seed
dispersers, contributing to ecological balance. Despite its importance in the ecosystem, it is
listed with imminent danger of extinction. The esophagus, inlugvium, proventrlic and
ventricle of A. aestiva a. present histological similarities between birds of other taxonomic
groups, however interspecific characteristics were observed, this includes the absence of
mucous glands, accumulation of melanocytes in the esophageal epithelium, alternations of
muscle fibers and elastic fibers in significant amounts in muscle tissue in the structure of
inlugvium, and distribution of serotonin-producing cells (5-HT) in the proventricle and
ventricle. The p-value indicates that there was no significant difference between the two sexes
of A.aestiva when comparing the means of the total length of the bird and length of the organ
follow-ups: cervical esophagus, inluvium, thoracic esophagus, proventrlicle and ventricle. The
information was collected and compared with references to studies already conducted in other
bird species. These characteristics may be the functional adaptation of the eating habit, which
contributes to the comparative morphology of birds and with information for applied research,
serving as a species of experimental model, besides contributing to the management of these
animals conservation centers, creations, and ecological reserves. Due to the particularities
related to different types of diet, especially in wild birds, the morphological study of the
digestive system is fundamental for the knowledge of aspects related to physiology and
phylogeny studies on system digestive of wild birds.