Functional mechanisms and histologic composition of the lingual appendage in the alligator snapping turtle, Macroclemys temmincki (Troost) (Testudines: Chelydridae).

Gross and microscopic examination of the lingual appendages of juvenile and adult alligator snapping turtles, Macroclemys temmincki, shows that it is divided into an anterior horn, a body, and a posterior horn. Lingual appendages of adults usually are more darkly pigmented than those of juveniles and melanocyte distribution is variable, resulting in a mottled appearance. The musculoskeletal components of the hyoid apparatus, presumably responsible for most of the motion displayed by the appendage, are described here.