Morphology, ultrastructure and sexual dimorphism in antennal sensilla of Belionota prasina (Thunberg, 1789) (Coleoptera, Buprestidae)

Abstract

The “jewel beetle” - Belionota prasina (Thunberg, 1789), is a polyphagous insect pest found throughout India and its neighboring countries. To develop semiochemical-based pest control strategies, we must first comprehend the entire morphological features of the insect’s antennal sensory structure. This is the first study report revealing the morphology and ultrastructure of antennal sensillae of male and female of B. prasine using light and scanning electron microscopy. Both antennae are serrated in appearance with 11 antennomers. In both sexes, Böhm sensilla, sensilla trichodea, sensilla basiconica, sensilla chaetica, and multiporous grooved peg sensilla are common. Sexual dimorphism is present in the case of length and width (basal and distal) of entire antenna as well as each antennomer. Male antennomeres are larger and more robust. The antenna of B. prasina shows a high degree of sexual dimorphism. The C4 type aporous serrated sensilla chaetica, which serves a tactile function, are highly specific to male antennae. The sensilla basiconica subtype 4 is found in female antennomeres while multigrooved are pegs present only in male antennomerers. The number and type of sensillae are greater in males than females. Apical fossae are present dorsally and ventrally on each male antennomere. The function and distribution of all types of sensilla are explained and illustrated in this paper.

Keywords

• antennal sensilla
• buprestidae
• chemical ecology
• light microscopy
• sem