The visible bumps on the tongue are not taste buds, but instead are called:

• A. Villi
• B. Cilia
• C. Papillae
• D. Follicles

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the anatomy of the tongue: The tongue is covered with small, visible bumps called papillae, which are structures that house taste buds and other sensory cells.
2. Clarify the role of papillae: Papillae are not taste buds themselves but serve as the structures that contain taste buds in some cases. They also have other functions, such as aiding in the mechanical handling of food.
3. Differentiate between the options: Villi are finger-like projections found in the small intestine, not the tongue. Cilia are hair-like structures found on cells, often involved in movement or sensory functions, but they are not related to the tongue. Follicles are small sacs or cavities, commonly associated with hair or glands, and are unrelated to the tongue's surface.
4. Identify the correct term: The visible bumps on the tongue are called papillae, which is the correct answer based on their anatomical and functional role.
5. Conclude with clarification: While papillae are visible, taste buds are microscopic and located within certain types of papillae, such as fungiform, circumvallate, and foliate papillae.