Microstructure of the water spider (Argyroneta aquatica) using the scanning electron microscope

Abstract

This study is aimed to identify the external features of the water spiders (Argyroneta aquatica) collected from “The Natural Monument No. 412 Yeoncheon Eundaeri Water Spider Habitat” through observation of their microstructures using a scanning electron microscope. There is no study on the microstructures of the water spiders excluding several studies on protection plans and ecological investigations, thus giving this study considerable academic significance. Based on the scanning electron microscopy analysis, the water spider has eight simple eyes, and both of its lateral simple eyes are stuck together. A lateral bump was confirmed on the upper jaw, and the pedipalps had six joints and the legs had seven joints. The abdomen and sternum of A. aquatica have more hairs compared with those of land spiders, and its structure shows an elongated area of contact with the air bell so that the air bell can become attached to the abdomen better.

Keywords

• Argyroneta aquatica
• microstructure
• natural monument
• SEM
• water spider