Microtopography of the eggshell of Menacanthus eurysternus (Phthiraptera: Amblycera)

Abstract

The egg laying sites, pattern and the egg morphology (SEM) of an amblyceran louse parasitizing Bank Myna (Acridotheres ginginianus) have been recorded. Unlike most of the species of the genus, Menacanthus studied so far, the eggshell of M. eurysternus lacks the apophyses (bristle like outgrowths arising from anterior portion of the eggshell). However, the opercular disc of M. eurysternus bears a polar thread and the micropyles are set along the opercular rim.