Description of pleural defensive organs in three species of firefly larvae (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
Keyword(s):
Although reflex bleeding as a defence mechanism is well characterised in the adult lampyrid little is known of the defensive mechanisms of immature bioluminescent beetles. A detailed comparative examination of the morphology and microstructure of the pleural defensive organs of Lampyris noctiluca L., Luciola cruciata Motschulsky and a Nyctophila species obtained from Amol forest, Iran, using light microscopy and epifluorescent imaging, revealed vesicles continuous with the pleural organ membrane and held in place by a disc structure. Structural differences were apparent between species. We speculate on the function and evolution of these organs among the Lampyridae.
1995 ◽
Vol 32
(6)
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pp. 455-462
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1973 ◽
Vol 31
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pp. 512-513
1978 ◽
Vol 36
(2)
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pp. 82-83
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1969 ◽
Vol 27
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pp. 20-21
1982 ◽
Vol 40
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pp. 262-265
1970 ◽
Vol 28
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pp. 26-27
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1974 ◽
Vol 32
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pp. 328-329
1971 ◽
Vol 29
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pp. 258-259
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