Abstract
AbstractRelationship between the needle structure of Picea excelsa and the behaviour of some needle eating insect species. The relationship between the needle structure of Picea excelsa and the feeding behaviour of the first instar larvae of Semiothisa liturata (Lep., Geometri‐dae) and the oviposition by adults of Gilpinia hercyniae (Hym., Diprionidae) were investigated. The needle sides (stomatic strips) were found to be the locus of attack by the newly hatched larvae of S. liturata. Continuous hypodermal strands of sclerenchyma offer resistance to the larvae invasion at the edges of the needle. A correlation between outer cell wall thickness of epidermis and the size of the feeding hole and the time in making the opening in the needle tissue by the larvae was observed. The size of the egg‐pocket in the needle and the egg mortality of G. hercyniae was found to be related to the thickness of epidermal cell wall.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
