The Common Loon (Gavia immer) has four unique vocalizations attributed to its syrinx. This project aimed to develop a staining and storage protocol for Common Loon syringes. Cannell et al. published a protocol to stain muscle, bone, cartilage, and nerves in avian syringes in 1988. However, this protocol must be modified and adapted to each species, as the morphological changes affect stain uptake and tissue integrity. It was found in this study that the times, temperatures, and materials need to be adjusted in order to achieve optimal stain uptake and minimize tissue damage. Having developed a proper protocol, further studies can be done to determine the makeup of Common Loon syringes and how that contributes to this species’ unique bird calls.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Rowland, Elisheba D.
• Gordon, Emily A.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 23081
• E-project-050621-143616

Keyword

• Cannell
• Common Loon
• Syrinx
• Staining
• Gavia immer

Advisor

• Buckholt, Michael Allan
• Rulfs, Jill

Year

• 2021

Sponsor

• Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine

Date created

• 2021-05-06

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2021-08-28