Ultrastructural studies of the mantle and the periostracal lamina in the manila clam, Ruditapes philippinarum

The four folds of the mantle and the periostracal lamina of R. philippinarum were studied using light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy to determine the histochemical and ultrastructural relationship existing between the mantle and the shell edge. The different cells lining the four folds, and in particular those of the periostracal groove, are described in relation to their secretions. The initial pellicle of the periostracum arises in the intercellular space between the basal cell and the first intermediate cell. In front of the third cell of the inner surface of the outer fold, the periostracal lamina is composed of two major layers; an outer electron-dense layer or periostracum and an inner electron-lucent fibrous layer or fibrous matrix. The role and the fate of these two layers differ; the outer layer will recover the external surface of the shell and the inner layer will contribute to shell growth.