Tongue Anatomy

The base of the tongue is located in the throat just above the larynx (voice box) and extends to the
hyoid bone. The tongue is wrapped in the lingual membrane, which is studded with tiny projections
called papillae. These papillae are responsible for the tongue’s textured surface. At the back, sides
and tip of the tongue are the taste buds. These help to distinguish basic food flavours including
bitter, salty, sweet and sour. There are about 9,000 taste buds on the average adult tongue. Some
taste buds are found in the throat and palate.