A structural study of the optic nerve of Hydromantes genei

Abstract

The structure of the optic nerve of Hydromantes genei, was investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy and by the CajalDe Castro method. This nerve appears to be composed of unmyelinated fibres, which is a rare case in amphibians. In view of this and the fact that it contains a relatively small number of nervous fibres, the optic nerve of H. genei, in comparison with other species of Plethodontidae, can be considered a structure with a low level of complication.