Observations on Spiracular Behavior in Aedes Mosquitoes

Author: KRAFSUR E. S.   WILLMAN J. R.   GRAHAM C. L.   WILLIAMS R. E.  

Publisher: Entomological Society of America

ISSN: 1938-2901

Source: Annals of the Entomological Society of America, Vol.63, Iss.3, 1970-05, pp. : 684-691

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

Previous Menu Next

Abstract

An apparatus was constructed to allow simultaneous observation of the thoracic spiracles of adult female mosquitoes and to permit recording of the behavior observed. A microenvironment of controlled composition and relative humidity was provided. In Aedes (Diptera: Culicidae) at rest in air the thoracic spiracles constantly open and close synchronously. The degree of such opening is minimal. Stationary flight, CO2, or hypoxia cause much more extensive synchronized opening. It was suggested that the thoracic compressions and extensions of the head noted in flight or hypoxia are possible ventilatory mechanisms, and were unrelated to the frequency of spiracular opening and closing. Decapitation eliminated spontaneous locomotor activity and resulted in more conservative spiracular behavior.