Preparation of Alcohol-Preserved Larvae of Culicidae (Diptera) for Scanning Electron Microscopy

Abstract

AbstractA method for preparation of alcohol-preserved culicid larvae for Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) studies is described. It is based on dehydration by ethanol-xylol and fast evaporation of xylol in +8o° C. for ten minutes. For taxonomic studies such as examination of pecten teeth, comb scales and microtrichiae in magnifications up to 6oooX the method is suitable. For studies of receptor structures on hair-tufts and microstructures of the body integument alcohol preserved material is less satisfactory. The microstructure of the comb scales is figured and their function discussed. Differences in the ultrastructure of the abdominal hair-tufts are pointed out.