Studies on phosphorus metabolism during the growth and metamorphosis of tribolium confusum Duval

Abstract

1. 1. Variations in the total phosphorus and the different phosphorus fractions have been investigated during the growth and metamorphosis of T. confusum. 2. 2. During the last few days of the larval period, a considerable increase in the absolute vaules of the total P and the various P fractions is noted while their percentaage shows a gradual decrease during the same period. Total P appears to be a linear function of the larval fresh weight. 3. 3. At the time of the larval transformation into prepupa, a slight loss in the total P occurs which is probably attributable to excretion and is perhaps associated with the lower activity of the insect. 4. 4. There is evidence of new synthesis of phospholipids and nucleic acids in the newly emerged adult as indicated by an increase in the P content of these fractiions. The mature adult female possesses a significantly higher percentage of P than the male which is probably due to increased requirements for this element during oögenesis.