Scanning electron microscopic observations on the surface structure of the tick Boophilus microplus(Canestrini, 1887) female specimens
Yung Bai Kang and Du Hwan Jang*
Institute of Veterinary Research, Rural Development Administration, Anyang City, Kyunggi-do, Korea.
*Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Suwon City, Kyunggi-do, Korea.
Abstract
Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimens were subjected to scanning electron microscopy for the observation of surface fine structures. Morphological characteristics observed were summarized as follows: The palpi were wider than long, and compressed, ridged dorsally and laterally. There were usually four pairs of ventro-internal setae on the articles. The hypostome dentition was usually 4/4 but occasionally 5/5. The basis capituli were hexagonal dorsally and the porose area was distinct with the holes developed well. There were numerous folds resembling finger prints around the female genital pore. A pair of anal lobes with specified setae on them was also recognized as one of the morphological characteristics.
Figures
Figs. 1-2 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 1. Dorsolateral view of the engorged female, showing the mouth part, scutum, 4 legs and spiracular plate. (12.2×)
Fig. 2. Ventrolateral view showing the finger prints on the body surface and the legs II and III with some setae, (50×)
Figs. 3-4 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 3. Dorsal view showing the basis capitulum with porose area snd the setae on the scutum. (40.6×)
Fig. 4. The magnified tarsus with pulvillus and claw showing the Haller's organ and some setae. (211×)
Figs. 5-6 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 5. Ventral view of the capitulum showing the hypostome, aricles with ventrointernal setae, corona and files. Hypostome dentition 4/4 or 5/5. (155×)
Fig. 6. Ventral aspect of the hypostome with the magnified corona files. (540×)
Figs. 7-8 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 7. Dorsal view of the capitulum, showing the pedipalps with setae, hypostome and the porose areas on the basis capitulum. (100×)
Fig. 8. The highly magnified porose area holes. (5,000×)
Figs. 9-10 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 9. The magnified genital organ showing the setae and folds resembling finger prints. (315×)
Fig. 10. The magnified anus showing the anal lobes with specified setae. (315×)
Figs. 11-12 Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) female specimen. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM ISI-D-130, 10 to 30 KV).
Fig. 11. A setae on the surface of the abdomen with high magnification. (1,000×)
Fig. 12. A setae on the surface of the trochanter with high magnification. (1,500×)
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