Morphology and distribution of sensillum on antennal, thoracic and abdominal tegument of Endoclita signifier larva

  Objective  Based on the morphological characteristics, types, distribution and quantity of sensilla, the adaptability between the antennal, thoracic and abdominal tegument sensilla of Endoclita signifier larvae and their wormhole was investigated.

  Method  Scanning electron microscopy combined with measurement, statistical analysis, and scale mapping were used to observe, describe and make statistics of the sensillum on antennal, thoracic and abdominal tegument of the 4th instar E. signifier larvae.

  Result  The antennal sensilla of E. signifier larvae were mainly distributed at the end of the flagellum, consisting of eight pairs of sensilla, including three pairs of sensilla chaetica, four pairs of sensilla basiconca, and one pair of sensilla styloconica, which can satisfy the chemical and mechanical sensory needs of the larvae. The sensillum types on the surface of thoracic and abdominal tegument were Bohm’s bristle and three subtypes of sensilla chaetica. All sensilla chaetica had spiral lines, and sensilla chaetica typeⅡ was the most unique, with spinous protrudes on its outer wall, which play a role in the mechanical expansion and defense of the larvae.

  Conclusion  The antennal, thoracic and abdominal tegument sensilla of E. signifier larvae were adapted to their living environment, and the results will provide basic support for subsequent feeding behavior, olfactory recognition, and selective adaptation of E. signifier larvae.