Ultrastructure Morphology of the Antennae of Bahamiola orbitalis (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)

Abstract

This study presents the first scanning electron microscopy investigation of the antenna of adult Bahamiola orbitalis, a species of potential forensic relevance. The specimens used in the analysis were obtained from traps baited with decomposing chicken in Jamaica, and 16 males were used in the morphometric analysis of the species. The antennae of B. orbitalis exhibit the typical characteristics of cyclorrhaphan Diptera, with the scape, the pedicel, and the postpedicel that bears the arista. The distribution, number, and location of sensilla on the antennae are described. Five types of sensilla were observed. The scape and pedicel have only chaetic sensilla, the postpedicel bears trichoid, basiconic, coeloconic sensilla, and clavate sensilla. Basiconic sensilla were the most numerous sensilla found on the antennae. Coeloconic sensilla are short-pegged and located in sunken depressions. The ventral surface of the postpedicel bears one sensory pit. This study provides additional information about the structure of the antennae in Sarcophagidae. This can be used to compare evolutionary relationships and identify shared characteristics.