Abstract
The sensilla on the antennal flagellum of Nezara viridula (Heteroptera : Pentatomidae) were studied with the scanning and transmission electron microscopes. Seven morphologically distinct types of sensilla were identified in adults. The number and distribution of six types were studied. Male and female antennae bear the same numbers and types of sensilla. As in other Heteroptera, the flagellum comprises two segments. The second flagellar segment bears more sensilla than the first segment. Sensilla are evenly distributed over the flagellum surface. The total number of sensilla increases during the post-embryonic development. Individual numerical growths of each type follow simple exponential laws when expressed as functions of developmental stage. The growth in number shows positive allometry in respect to body size for sensillum types 1, 2 + 5 and 4, but negative allometry for types 3 and 6. The density of sensilla remains constant. These findings are compared with previously published data from other heterometabolous insects. Adaptation to the increase in body size during the post-embryonic development seems to be the main determinant of the growth of the olfactory system in N. viridula.
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