Pineal gland of Taphozous longimanus: A morphological and anatomical investigation

Pineal body is an endocrine gland that helps to control endogenous rhythm with environment by secreting melatonin, especially light-dark cycle. This gland is a neuroendocrine gland responsible for the synthesis and release of melatonin. The pineal gland, formerly named epiphysis, was once considered phylogenic relic, a vestige of a dorsal third eye and of little functional significance. It is present in the brain of the vertebrates, but its morphology and location vary considerably among species. For the species of Taphozous longimanus (Hardwick), there is no information on the morphology and anatomy of the gland. The present study provides the first insight into the morphological and anatomical aspects of the pineal gland of Taphozous longimanus (Hardwick).