Abstract
Physiological responses of insect respiration to gaseous toxicants have been studied with an integrated technique. A more sensitive and modified method to record frequency and amplitude of ventilation has been designed. Techniques have also been devised to record the frequency, degree and/or duration of opening and/or closing of spiracles. A method, with the use of insect Ringer's solution, has also been developed to assess the effects of toxic gases on respiration when dissolved in the body fluid. These techniques have been described with illustrations. The results of toxic effects of acetone, ether and chloroform on the mechanism of respiration in Periplaneta americana (L.) have been given here. These preliminary studies indicate that respiratory activity in these vapours depends on their capacity for penetration through the body integument, in addition to their entry through the spiracles which form the chief sites for the exchange of gases.
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