Cranial morphology of Deudorix isocrates (Fab.) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) larvae

Abstract

Deudorix isocrates (Fab.) is a globally important agricultural pest. The study regarding this pest is mostly concentrated on its management. Several morphologically significant features have been overlooked. In the present study we examined the structure and function of the larval cranial morphology and its appendages. The description is based on the detailed morphological study of cranial sutures, cranial areas, antennae and mouthparts of the fourth instar larva. The cranial structures and appendages are found significant to understand pest activity and taxonomic features. Supporting to the pest activities, the larva has usual the lepidopterous pattern of biting and cutting mouthparts consisting of labrum, mandibles and maxillolabial-hypopharyngeal complex. This type of mouthparts helps to cut fruit rind and make an entrance hole while infesting the fruit. The results add to our knowledge of larval cranial capsule, antennae and mouthparts morphology and provide a standard for further research on the morphological characters of Deudorix isocrates (Fab.)

Keywords

• d. isocrates
• pest
• cranial areas
• cranial sutures
• mouthparts
• morphology