Morphological description of the alimentary tract of Geoica utricularia (Passerini, 1856) (Insecta, Hemiptera, Eriosomatinae)

Abstract

Existing literature data report the lack of stomach and crenated intestine in the aphid species Geoicasetulosa (Passerini, 1860), a representative of subfamily Eriosomatinae. This odd anatomical feature seemed remarkable, due to the presence of fully developed intestine in closely related genera and mutualistic relationship with ants of this genus. The study aimed at repeated anatomical research of Geoicautricularia (Passerini 1856), in order to confirm what seemed to be a generic feature. Standard histological methods were applied, with addition of oblique light microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The results indicated the existence of a fully developed intestine, with broad sac-shaped stomach and loops of the crenated intestine. The general anatomy of the alimentary tract of G. utricularia resembles that of other representatives of the tribe Fordini. Also well-developed rectal gland is present, most probably playing a role in modifying the carbohydrate composition of excreted honeydew.