Ultrastructure of the cuticular scales of lynx spiders (Araneae, Oxyopidae) and jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae).

Abstract

The cuticular scales of spiders are flattened setae that may occur in a diverse array of colors and shapes on the dorsal and lateral surfaces of the prosoma, opisthosoma, and walking legs. In this study, we used transmission electron microscopy (of both sections and wholemounts) and scanning electron microscopy (in concert with paraffin carving) to examine the internal anatomy and ultrastructure of the cuticular scales of several species of lynx spiders (Oxyopidae) and jumping spiders (Salticidae). We also examined iridescent and noniridescent pigmented scales for species in both families. In addition to discovering intra- and interspecific and sexual differences in scale ultrastructure, the results of our research also indicate that the ultrastructure of the scales of these spiders varies directly with coloration. For iridescent scales, we found a general absence of trabeculae, a lack of pigment granules, and an almost complete fusion of the the upper and lower laminae. For noniridescent scales, we observed granules, well-formed trabeculae, and a complex internal structure consisting of internal elements within the lumen of the scale. Our examination of the scales of these spiders represents the first complete description of the ultrastructure of the cuticular scales of any species of spider. J. Morphol. 240:77-92, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.