Ultrastructural analysis of endophallus in several species of the genus Larinus Dejean, 1821 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Lixinae)

Abstract

The ultrastructures of the endophallus in eight species of the genus Larinus Dejean, 1821 (Larinus scolymi, L. grisescens, L. iaceae, L. latus, L. minutus, L. onopordi, L. sturnus, and L. turbinatus) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Lixinae) are investigated. The endophallus was obtained from the aedeagi by dissection. The structures were drawn under a light microscope. The ultrastructures of endophallus (or internal sac) consisting of spines, teeth and papillae were investigated with a scanning electron microscope. Similarities and differences between all species investigated are discussed. The ultrastructures found, e.g. spines, teeth, papillae and hairs are recognised as important for taxonomy, and can be used for separation of the morphologically similar species.