Encapsulation in Arthropods

Abstract

Encapsulation is the common type of defense reaction in arthropods against invading pathogens and parasites, introduced foreign bodies, or injected particulate materials. Phagocytosis predominates when the haemocoel is exposed to small numbers of foreign particles [28]. Further immune capacity of arthropods is based on the presence or neosynthesis of humoral substances, such as lysozyme, cecropins, attacins (see Chap. 6), and other compounds with antibiotic efficiency [13].