ISSN:
1432-234X
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary The midgut basal lamina of third instar Oryctes rhinoceros larvae was observed to consist of three structured layers. Each layer contained two structural elements regularly arranged with respect to one another. Type I elements appeared to be morphological variations of closed cylinders with increasing diameters in each layer. The layer of basal lamina closest the midgut epithelium had the smallest, most regular Type I elements. In that layer furthest from the midgut cells the Type I elements were the largest and irregular in shape. Type II elements were morphologically similar in all layers, appearing as dense rod-like elements with a triangular cross section in the plane of the lamina. These elements were interconnected by fine fibrils to form a basic repeating unit: One Type II element surrounded by three Type I elements. Perfect packing of the basic units within the layers of the basal lamina resulted in a pattern of each element type surrounded by three elements of the opposite type. However, variability in the packing of the basic repeating unit frequently occurred. Comparison of the basal lamina of 0. rhinoceros with those of other beetles and fleas previously described showed that this repeating unit occurs in almost all basal laminae containing similar structural units. The basal lamina of 0. rhinoceros, however, appears to be the most complex one yet described.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00302761
