Abstract
The subgenus Praocis Eschscholtz, 1829 (Pimeliinae: Praociini) is an endemic group of north-central Chile consisting of 18 flightless species distributed mostly across the Chilean desert and coastal steppe. In this work we describe the morphology and structure of first instar larvae of Praocis (Praocis) spinolai Gay and Solier, 1841, Praocis (Praocis) subaenea Erichson, 1834, and Praocis (Praocis) curta Solier, 1841 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Larvae were obtained by rearing wild-caught male and female individuals under laboratory conditions. The structure and external morphological characters of the larvae were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results show that first instar larvae have morphological adaptations to edaphic environments, such as prothoracic legs for digging, a strongly sclerotized cephalic capsule, and well-developed IX and X abdominal segments (pygidium and pygopods). The interspecific differences in head morphology (cephalic capsule and epicranium), mouthparts (labrum, clypeus and mandibles), and IX and X abdominal segments (pygidium, pygopods, and apical spines) are highlighted.
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
