THE EPIPHYSIS OF THE GYPSY MOTH, LYMANTRIA DISPAR (LEPIDOPTERA: LYMANTRIIDAE): STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

Abstract

AbstractThe external structure, cellular structure, and function of the tibial epiphysis of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), are described. Scanning electron micrographs and histological preparations indicate that the epiphysis of the male gypsy moth is an efficient antennal comb, but behavioral studies indicate it is not required for either precopulatory stimulation or for orientation to sex pheromones. The acanthae covering the inner surface of the epiphysis appear to have only a mechanical function.