Development of left‐right asymmetry in the habenular nuclei of rana temporaria

Abstract

Abstract An investigation of the habenular nuclei in tadpoles, young frogs, and fully matured Rana temporaria, revealed several consistent left‐right asymmetries. In tadpoles and young frogs, the left nucleus is partially divided by a vertical septum; lacks cells adjoining the third ventricle along part of its length; and contains fewer free cell bodies in its lumen than the nucleus on the right. In addition, the beginnings of a second nucleus on the left can be seen, lateral to the much larger main left nucleus. The fully grown adult has two distinct left habenular nuclei and only one on the right.