Embryo surface morphology during post-gastrula development of the frog, Bombina orientalis, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy.

To further study the morphology of the developing amphibian embryo, and to provide a basis for the characterization of abnormal embryogenesis, surface features of the Bombina orientalis embryo during post-gastrula development were examined with the scanning electron microscope. Ciliated cells similar to those reported for Rama pipiens and Ambystoma mexicanum were observed in the epidermis. Epidermal secretory cells displaying large numbers of exocytotis apertures become prominent at the early tail bud stage and are prevalent through hatching. The surface features of the adhesive organs and gill filaments are also described. Removal of the embryo from the fertilization envelope resulted in the accumulation of a prominent mucoid matrix over the surface cells. These findings should be considered when experiments are designed which involve the effects of applied molecules on amphibian embryo epidermal cells.