Ultrastructure of wing scales in adult mammophilic vector Culex (Culex) quinquefasciatus (Say) in a semi-arid zone

Abstract

Wing scales are considered a significant taxonomic character in the family Culicidae. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of wing scales has been studied. The anatomy, morphology and distribution of wing scales of Culex (Culex) quinquefasciatus Say were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This new role of scales has been described here to segregate it from other species of subgenera Culicidae. Also, we have added some vital variatious in larval characters such as setae and its disposition during development of larvae in the laboratory as well as been recorded in their actual niche. There appears to be a need to record these larval variations, which are regularly occurring, but has not been recorded the in semi-arid zone of India. The fourth instar of Cx. quinquefasciatus Say has been examined in the compound microscope. The chaetotaxy variations on segments VII, VIII, and X have been observed. Whereas, on the X segment seta 2- X and 3-X with 2-6 branches were recorded. These observations have been compared with the work of Sirivankaran and White (1978) descriptions, where differences have been distinctly tabled. The role of wing scales in morphology cannot be ignored in any species specific and site-specific study in a semi-arid zone which can improve upon the taxonomy of Culicidae itself, when studied under higher magnifications. Reported variations of species could play a role in management of new diseases in this area. This ultimately can be an establishment factor for a relationship with epidemics with environmental parasitology and systematics of vectors.