Antennal Scape Research Articles

Revision of the genus Caenota Mosely (Trichoptera: Calocidae), with descriptions of 2 new species and the larva of C. nemorosa Neboiss.

The caddisfly genus Caenota Mosely 1953 (in Mosely & Kimmins 1953) currently contains 5 species known from eastern Australia. Caenota is distinguished from other Calocidae genera by having adult males with greatly expanded maxillary palpi and a large membranous process associated with the antennal scape. Of the 5 described species, the larvae of only 1 is known. Here, we describe 2 new species, Caenota cudonis sp. nov. and C. equustagna sp. nov., from adult, larval, and pupal material. Also, we describe for the first time the larva of C. nemorosa Neboiss. These descriptions increase the number of Caenota species to 7 and the number of associated and described larvae to 4. This paper also provides descriptions of features associated with the adult head capsule of all described species of Caenota. Each of the known species is considered, with illustrations and re-descriptions of these features given.

Ultrastructure of antennal sensory organs of horse nasal-myiasis fly, Rhinoestrus purpureus (Diptera: Oestridae).

Rhinoestrus purpureus (Brauer, 1858) (Diptera: Oestridae) is an economically important parasite that can cause severe nasal myiasis in equids or even attacking humans. The antennae of R. purpureus were examined using stereoscopic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The general morphology was provided detailedly, together with distribution, type, size, and ultrastructure of antennal sensilla. All the three antennal segments, antennal scape, pedicel, and funiculus, are interspersed by microtrichiae. Only mechanoreceptors are detected on antennal scape and pedicel. On antennal funiculus, three types of sensilla were observed, including basiconic sensilla, coeloconic sensilla and clavate sensilla. Two features are characterized of this host-specific bot fly: (1) numerous sensory pits with branched basiconic sensilla on antennal funiculus and (2) the absence of trichoid sensilla. The function of these distinctive traits are discussed in association with the life history. We suggest that more sensory pits with branched sensilla could increase the sensitivity of olfactory system for host orientation, while the capability of pheromone identification might be reduced due to the absence of trichoid sensilla. Besides, we support both thermo- and chemo-functions of coeloconic sensilla.

First record of the carpenter antCamponotus micropsfrom Mexico (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Abstract We report the first record of the rare carpenter ant (Camponotus microps) from the states of Guanajuato and Queretaro, Mexico. This species was previously known only from the type series from the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, USA. This species is a member of the picipes species complex, and can be easily separated from the similar common Camponotus festinatus, as well as other members of the complex, by the short antennal scapes.

Differences in antennal sensillae of male and female peach fruit flies in relation to hosts.

Antennal sensillae of male and female peach fruit flies, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae), obtained from three different host fruit species (guava, Psidium guajava L. (Myrtales: Myrtaceae); peach, Prunus persica (L.) Stokes (Rosales: Rosaceae); and orange, Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (Sapindales: Rutaceae)), were studied with scanning electron microscopy. This study was carried out to describe the different types of sensillae present on the three antennal segments (scape, pedicel, and flagellum or funiculus) of both sexes of B. zonata on different host fruit. The antennal segments of females tended to be larger than those of males feeding on peach and guava fruit. On orange, both sexes were similar (no significant differences were found). The first two antennal segments, scape and pedicel, are reinforced by some bristles and have different types of sensillae, including trichoid I, II, S; basiconic II; and sensilla chaetica in different numbers on different host fruit species. Numerous microtrichia, as well as trichoid (I, II), basiconic (I), clavate, and coeloconic (I, II) sensillae were observed on the funiculus with a great variation in number and length. As a result of feeding on different hosts, differences were found between sexes and some plasticity in size, number, distribution, and position of some sensillae, including trichoid, basiconic, chaetica, and clavate on the antennae of the female B. zonata. These sensillae were significantly larger in females. Also, some morphological and morphemetric differences have been found according to their feeding on different host fruit.

A taxonomic revision of Parallelodemas Faust from South China (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Baridinae), with notes on sexually dimorphic characters

Nine species of Parallelodemas Faust are reported from China. In addition to the previously recorded P. impar Voss, we found P. docile Faust, P. vicinum Faust and the following six species newly described herein: P. dimetans sp. n., P. feae sp. n., P. petilum sp. n., P. plumosum sp. n., P. setifrons sp. n. and P. tumens sp. n. Parallelodemas tarsale Voss from Java is transferred to Lepidomyctides Yoshihara and Morimoto (comb. n.). Lectotypes are designated for P. docile, P. imperfectum Faust, P. perfectum Faust, P. tardum Faust and P. vicinum. Several morphological modifications with unknown functions are documented, illustrated and discussed. Males of some species have special setae on rostrum, antennal scape and mesotarsus. A medially notched epistome apparently occurs in both sexes but seems to wear off in females, probably during the preparation of oviposition sites. The mandible is unusual in having a convex, edentate inner face and incisor-like structures on the outer face.

Fine structure of sensory apparatus on the head of Cixiopsis punctatus.

The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female Cixiopsis punctatus (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Eleven types of sensilla or sensory organs were identified: trichoid sensilla on the pedicel, scape, maxillae, and labium; campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape, maxillae, and labium; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ and styloconic sensilla on the expanded flagellar base; Evans' organ and button-like sensilla on the maxillary plates; basiconic sensilla, peg sensilla, and coin-shaped sensilla on the labium. Styloconic sensilla on the expanded flagellar base and peg sensilla located between the dorsal sensory field and the opening of the maxillae and mandibles were first reported in Tropiduchidae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in C. punctatus were illustrated.

Sensilla on the antenna of blow fly, Triceratopyga calliphoroides Rohdendorf (Diptera: Calliphoridae).

Blow fly, Triceratopyga calliphoroides Rohdendorf, is a common and synanthropic species of medical and forensic significance in eastern Asia. Field monitoring studies have indicated that olfaction system plays an important role in guiding the behavior of insect species. To further our understanding of fly olfaction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) are applied to examine the sensillar morphology of adults, with an emphasis on sensory pit and sacculus. Both microtrichiae and several mechanoreceptors are detected on antennal scape and pedicel. Except for these two structures, pedicellar buttons are also found in antennal pedicellar depression after the separation of antennal pedicel and funiculus. Eight types of antennal sensilla are observed on external surface of antennal funiculus (one type of trichoid sensilla, three types of basiconic sensilla, three types of coeloconic sensilla, and one type of clavate-like sensilla), while two types (one type of basiconic sensilla and one type of coeloconic-like sensilla) are detected at the inner surface of sensory pits or sacculus. As the first to investigate cuticular invaginations of blow flies via paraffin section, the internal structure of abundant sensory pits and an excessively complex sacculus on antennal funiculus are revealed. After comparison to other species previously studied, this phenomenon is proved to be the most unique feature of T. calliphoroides, armed with a discussion on its morphology, function, and possible evolutionary implications.

Ultrastructure of antennal sensilla in Hydrotaea armipes (Fallén) (Diptera: Muscidae): new evidence for taxonomy of the genus Hydrotaea.

The morphology and ultrastructure of the antennal sensilla of male Hydrotaea (Hydrotaea) armipes (Fallén) are examined via scanning electron microscopy in order to highlight the importance of antennal sensilla as a source of morphological characters for taxonomy and phylogeny of Hydrotaea. Antennal scape and pedicel have only one type of sensilla, the sharp-tipped chaetic sensilla, whereas antennal funiculus possesses several types of sensilla, including trichoid sensilla, two subtypes of basiconic sensilla, coeloconic sensilla and clavate sensilla. These results are compared with previously published studies on other fly species, especially on H. (H.) irritans (Fallén) and H. (Ophyra) chalcogaster (Wiedemann), and there are possible uniquely derived characters or diagnostic characters examined on antennal pedicel and antennal funiculus, which suggests either affinities and divergence between species at subgenus level. Thus, new morphological evidence is provided, which might help to develop the much disputed taxonomy of genus Hydrotaea Robineau-Desvoidy in future.

Ultrastructure of the Antennal Sensillae of Male and Female Peach Fruit Fly,Bactrocera zonata

Antennal morphology and funicular sensillae of male and female peach fruit flies, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae), were studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This study focused on the sensillae found on the antennal segments (scape, pedicel, and flagellum or funiculus that bears the arista) of B. zonata. Antennal segments of females tended to be larger than those of the males. The first two antennal segments, scape and pedicel, were heavily covered with microtrichia and bear bristles. Numerous microtrichia as well as trichoid (I, II), basiconic, clavate, and coeloconic sensillae were observed on the funiculus. SEM studies showed some differences in size and also in position of some sensillae on the antennae of the females of B. zonata. The sensillae found on the funiculus, such as trichoid and basiconic sensillae, were significantly larger in females.

Fine structure of sensory apparatus on the head ofCixiopsis punctatus

The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female Cixiopsis punctatus (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Eleven types of sensilla or sensory organs were identified: trichoid sensilla on the pedicel, scape, maxillae, and labium; campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape, maxillae, and labium; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin’s organ and styloconic sensilla on the expanded flagellar base; Evans’ organ and button-like sensilla on the maxillary plates; basiconic sensilla, peg sensilla, and coin-shaped sensilla on the labium. Styloconic sensilla on the expanded flagellar base and peg sensilla located between the dorsal sensory field and the opening of the maxillae and mandibles were first reported in Tropiduchidae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in C. punctatus were illustrated.

Ultrastructure of the antennal sensillae of male and female peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata.

Antennal morphology and funicular sensillae of male and female peach fruit flies, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae), were studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This study focused on the sensillae found on the antennal segments (scape, pedicel, and flagellum or funiculus that bears the arista) of B. zonata . Antennal segments of females tended to be larger than those of the males. The first two antennal segments, scape and pedicel, were heavily covered with microtrichia and bear bristles. Numerous microtrichia as well as trichoid (I, II), basiconic, clavate, and coeloconic sensillae were observed on the funiculus. SEM studies showed some differences in size and also in position of some sensillae on the antennae of the females of B. zonata . The sensillae found on the funiculus, such as trichoid and basiconic sensillae, were significantly larger in females.

Ultrastructure of antennal sensilla of a parasitoid fly, Pales pavida Meigen (Diptera: Tachinidae)

Pales pavida Meigen is obligated polyparasitic fly and important natural enemy of some most damaging forest or agricultural pests, and thus could contribute to the biological control of them. The external morphology of main olfactory organs in this tachinid was examined using stereopic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and types, distribution and density of sensilla were provided. The first two antennal segments, antennal scape and pedicel, are covered by microtrichiae and several mechanoreceptors. A pedicellar button is detected on antennal pedicel as well, after its separation with antennal funiculus. On antennal funiculus, five types of sensillar structures are observed including trichoid, basiconic, coeloconic, clavate sensilla and sensory pit with subtype II basiconic sensilla and a type of rarely described coeloconic-like sensilla in it, respectively. There are two specific sensillar characteristics of Pales pavida, two types of sensory pit on antennal funiculus and lower densities of all sensilla types than relatively monoparasitic species, which may serve as applicable evidence on their adaption to environment and lifestyle. Besides, the morphology of pedicellar button in tachinids is first addressed, armed with a discussion of their possible function.

Antennal sensilla of the green bottle fly, Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

Lucilia sericata (Meigen) is a cosmopolitan synanthropic fly of forensic and medical importance, which can work as a mechanic vector of pathogens or cause myiasis of both human and sheep. As essential olfactory organs, antennae of adult L. sericata were examined with stereoscopic microscope, scanning electron microscope, and laser scanning confocal microscope. On antennal scape and pedicel, both microtirchiae and several bristles are detected, while another two structures, setiferous plaques and pedicellar buttons, are also found on the antennal pedicel. Seven subtypes of antennal sensilla are observed on antennal funiculus including one subtype of trichoid sensilla, two subtypes of basiconic sensilla, two subtypes of coeloconic sensilla, and two subtypes of sensory pits. Size and density of the former four types of sensilla on antennal funiculus are measured. Three distinctive sensillar characters of L. sericata are detected, which may contribute to greater olfactory sensitivity of this species and their wide distribution throughout the world. Unlike the common poreless pedicellar button with mechanoreceptor function, every pedicellar button in L. sericata is perforated by three pores, which might indicate potential chemoreceptor function of this structure. Besides, another unique feature is greater number of setiferous plaques in genus Lucilia than calliphorids of other genera. Expect for the common sensory pits with basiconic or basiconic-like sensilla in them, sensory pits filled with rarely described coeloconic-like sensilla are founded in L. sericata as well. After comparison with previous equivalent findings, the functions of these specific structures are discussed according to the life history of this calliphorid.

Blamada rubripronota, a new genus and species of the tribe Saperdini (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) from Southeast Asia.

A new saperdine species belonging to a new genus, Blamada rubripronota gen. et sp. nov., is described from Laos, Vietnam and China. The genus differs from other genera of the tribe Saperdini in having the antennal scape bearing an expanded and ridged ring at apex, and second antennomere relatively longer (more than 1/4 of scape in length) than that of other saperdine taxa.

Sensilla on antenna and maxillary palp of predaceous fly, Lispe neimongola Tian et Ma (Diptera: Muscidae)

This study describes aspects of sensilla on the antennae and maxillary palps of an aquatic predator, Lispe neimongola Tian et Ma. Types, distribution and density of sensilla were studied by stereoscopic microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The antennal scape has one type of sensilla, the sharp-tipped chaetic sensilla; whereas, the antennal pedicel possesses two subtypes of these sensilla. Three types of sensilla are found on antennal funiculus: trichoid sensilla, basiconic sensilla (two subtypes) and clavate sensilla. Sensilla found on palpal surface include the third subtype of basiconic sensilla and chaetic sensilla. Two unique sensillar characters of L. neimongola detected are the absence of coeloconic sensilla on antennal funiculus and the greater number of basiconic sensilla on spoon-like palps. These results are compared with equivalent findings in several other Calyptratae fly species of different ecotypes to provide evidence of adaptation to their environment.

First record of the ant subfamily Aenictinae (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Saudi Arabia, with the description of a new species

The ant subfamily Aenictinae is recorded for the first time from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and for the second time from the Arabian Peninsula. A new species Aenictus arabicus sp. n., is described from the worker caste. Aenictus arabicus belongs to the Aenictus wroughtonii-group and appears to be most closely related to Aenictus rhodiensis Menozzi, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by the following characters: overall smaller size; cephalic index (head width/head length) small; occipital corners in lateral view rounded; antennal scape when laid back surpassing approximately two-thirds of head length; funicular segments 2–8 each at least 2× as long as broad; subpetiolar process well developed; petiole and postpetiole distinctly imbricate; gaster and clypeus entirely yellow, teeth of mandibles reddish- brown. Aenictus arabicus was collected from leaf litter, next to a tree of Psidium guajava L. The new species also is similar to Aenictus sagei and Aenictus wroughtonii. Affinities and a key to related species of the species group are given.

Ultrastructure of sensory equipments on the heads ofKallitaxila granulata(Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), has been recently introduced into southeastern China, the Philippine islands, and Hawaii, where it has done significant damage to agricultural and forest ecosystems. The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female K. granulata was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Seven types of sensilla were reported: trichoid sensilla and campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape and maxilla; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the expanded flagellar base; ampullaceal sensilla on the antennal pedicel; wavy-pit sensilla on the antennal pedicel and antennal scape; and coin-shaped sensilla on each lateral side of the labium. Evans' organ was described as placoid sensilla sunk into shallow cuticular cavities below the antennae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in K. granulata were illustrated, with a brief discussion of their taxonomic, phylogenetic, and putative functional significance.

A SEM study of antennal and maxillary sensilla in Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)

The sensory organs on the antennae and maxillary plates of Zema gressitti Fennah (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) are studied using scanning electron microscopy. Four types of antennal sensilla are reported: trichoid sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, plate organs on the antennal pedicel, campaniform sensilla on the antennal scape and antennal pedicel, and coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the antennal flagellum. Cuticular denticles and cuticular microtubercles are also present on the antennal pedicel. On the maxillary plates, three campaniform sensilla are discovered. Additionally, Evans’ organs are described as placoid sensilla sunk into deep cuticular cavities on the maxillae below the antennae. The morphology of the sensory equipments in this species is provided for possible use in taxonomic and phylogenetic studies within the Tropiduchidae and Fulgoromorpha.

Olfactory sensilla on antennae and maxillary palps of Fannia hirticeps (Stein, 1892) (Diptera: Fanniidae)

The Fanniidae is one of four families in the superfamily Muscoidea (Diptera), including some important medical and hygienic flies. There is a paucity of reports on the ultrastructure of olfactory sensilla for the fanniid species. To provide more information on the morphology of the antennal and palpal sensilla of fanniid fly, Fannia hirticeps (Stein, 1892) has been studied using scanning electron microscopy. The first two antennal segments, scape and pedicel, are covered by microtrichiae and several chaetic sensilla. Six distinct morphological types of sensilla are recorded on the antennal funiculus, including one trichoid, two basiconic, two coeloconic sensilla, and one clavate sensilla. The measurement and density of each sensilla type are also provided. The trichoid sensilla tend to be longer and denser toward the apex of antennal funiculus. Basiconic sensilla spread all over the funicular surface. F. hirticeps bears two types of coeloconic sensilla, type 2 coeloconic sensilla distributed on the distal part of the anterior surface, whereas type 1 distributed on the rest of the funiculus. Clavate sensilla are found on the base of antennal funiculus. Only one large sensory pit is located on the posterior surface. Maxillary palps bear one type of basiconic sensilla. These results are compared with eight other muscid flies. Our findings provide a morphological basis for future investigations on olfactory-mediated behavior of this group.

Morphometrics and Morphology of Rice blue beetleLeptispa pygmaea(Baly.): (Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae)

The minor pest, blue beetle, Leptispa pygmaea (Baly.), is attaining status of a major pest by causing much damage to different crops in India. Attempts were made to study morphometrics and morphology of the beetle for correct identification and management. The beetle was found to lay oval eggs; measuring 0.20 mm length and 0.12 mm width hatching into creamy white grubs with two spiny projections on head and two tubular projections on posterior end of the body. The head capsule of all five instars measured 0.17, 0.20, 0.23, 0.26 and 0.26 mm wide, respectively. It pupated on leaves while attached loosely by its posterior end. The brown pupa measured 3.89 mm (length);1.32 mm (width). The adult beetle was metallic greenish yellow with longer antennae, narrow thorax and a long body. The female beetle could be differentiated by its shorter antennae, broader thorax and stouter body. The antennal scape was broader in the female compared to that of the male. The male and female reproductive system included aedeagus (length of 1.36 mm; width of 0.07 mm (anterior) and 0.10 mm (posterior)), two parts of tegmen, siphon and spermatheca with two lateral coxites (1.60 mm long; 0.52 mm wide), respectively.