Ultrastructure and functional morphology of dermal glands in the freshwater mite Limnochares aquatica (L., 1758) (Acariformes, Limnocharidae)

Abstract

This study is the first attempt to describe the ultrastructure and functional morphology of the dermal glands in Limnochares aquatica (L., 1758). The dermal glands were studied using light-optical, SEM and TEM microscopy methods during different stages of their activity. In contrast to the vast majority of other fresh water mites, dermal glands of the studied species are originally multiplied and scattered freely over the mite body surface. The opening of the glands is saddle-like, formed of several tight cuticular folds and oriented freely to the long axis of the mite body. Either a small cuticular spine or, rarely, a slim sensitive seta is placed on one pole of the opening. On the inside, the central gland portion is provided with a complex cuticular helicoid armature. The glands are composed of prismatic cells situated around the intra-alveolar lumen, variously present, and look like a fig-fruit with the basal surface facing the body cavity. The glands are provided with extremely numerous microtubules, frequently arranged in bundles, and totally devoid of synthetic apparatus such as RER cisterns and Golgi bodies. Three states of the gland morphology depending on their functional activity may be recognized: (i) glands without secretion with highly folded cell walls and numerous microtubules within the cytoplasm, (ii) glands with an electron-dense granular secretion in the expanded vacuoles and (iii) glands with the secretion totally extruded presenting giant empty vacuoles bordered with slim cytoplasmic strips on the periphery. Summer specimens usually show the first gland state, whereas winter specimens, conversely, more often demonstrate the second and the third states. This situation may depend on some factors like changes of the seasonal temperature, pH, or oxygenation of the ambient water. On the assumption of the morphological characters, dermal glands may be classified not as secretory but as a special additional excretory organ system of the body cavity. Despite the glands lack cambial cells, restoration of functions after releasing of ‘secretion’ looks possible. Organization of dermal glands is discussed in comparison to other water mites studied.