Macroscopic anatomy of the lower respiratory tract of the north american opossum (Didelphis virginiana)

ABSTRACT

This study documents the macroscopic anatomy of the lower respiratory tract of the North American opossum (Didelphis virginiana). The trachea consists of approximately 28 c-shaped cartilages and extends from the larynx to its bifurcation into right and left principal bronchi. The right lung consists of cranial, middle, caudal and accessory lobes which are separated from one another by interlobar fissures. The left lung consists of cranial and caudal lobes which are not separated by interlobar fissures. Lobation of the right and left lungs was verified from tracheobronchial casts.