#light microscope

the structures you’re looking at are the filiform papillae on the human tongue. they are the smallest and most numerous type of papilla on the human tongue, and contain no taste buds.

it is made out of irregular connective tissue covered by keratinized epithelial cells, a category of stratified (two layers or more) epithelial cells made up of keratinocytes (skin cells). the filiform papillae contain elastic fibers, making it flexible (which is important to its functions).

speaking of functions: their primary purpose is to manipulate food material, especially for carnivorous animals. they also play a role in texture perception by facilitating friction between food and the tongue.

as you can see, the filiform papillae tend to be vaguely conical, with (sometimes forked) filaments of keratin (the protein that makes up skin) sticking up from it. unfortunately, that’s all i know about it; if you’re still curious, here are some more sources to explore: