Sense Organs on the Antennal Flagellum of Leptoglossus zonatus (Heteroptera: Coreidae)

Abstract

Abstract For the first time, antennal sensorial organs of Leptoglossus zonatus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Coreidae) are described through scanning electron microscopy. The antennae are formed by a scape, pedicel, and a flagellum that is composed of two flagellomeres and is the main bearer of sensorial organs. Five types of sensory structures were identified: Trichoid sensilla, basiconic sensilla, coeloconic sensilla, campaniform sensilla, and placoid sensilla. Trichoid sensilla were divided into five subtypes. The large striated trichoid sensilla have almost straight longitudinally striated cuticles and were present throughout the antenna. Flattened trichoid sensilla were variable-sized curved hairs distributed from the base of the scape to the distal end of the first flagellomere. Small striated trichoid sensilla were found mainly on the antenna distal flagellomeres. Smooth trichoid sensilla were located at the distal end of the scape and along the entire length of the pedicel, and are the least abundant type on the antenna. Small smooth trichoid sensilla were found precisely on the joints between the pedicel and scape. Based on size and shape, the basiconic sensilla were also divided into five subtypes (Bs1, Bs2, Bs3, Bs4, and Bs5). These all are rod-shaped. Coeloconic sensilla were found exclusively on the second flagellomere of the flagellum. Just one campaniform sensilla on each antenna was located on the second flagellomere of the flagellum. Finally, a group of 10 oval placoid organs were found at the scape base, in proximity to the joint connecting the antenna to the insect's head.