Fine structure of the eggshell of the blow fly, Lucilia cuprina

• Main Authors: Kabkaew L. Sukontason, Nophawan Bunchu, Tarinee Chaiwong, Budsabong Kuntalue, Kom Sukontason
• Format: Journal
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: Agricultural and Biological Sciences
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?partnerID=HzOxMe3b&scp=33847121333&origin=inward; http://cmuir.cmu.ac.th/jspui/handle/6653943832/60834
• Institution: Chiang Mai University

The fine structure of the eggshell of blow fly, Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), was examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Eggs, 1.09±0.07 mm in length and 0.25±0.05 mm in width, bore a relatively wide plastron that extending along almost the entire length. The polygonal pattern of chorionic sculpture was indistinct. The ultrathin section indicated a multi-layered eggshell having an exochorion, outer endochorion, pillars, an inner endochorion, innermost chorionic layer, and a wax layer. This study provides new information about the fine morphology of blow flies eggs. A key to differentiate the eggs of forensically important flies in Thailand is given.