Postembryogenesis of Meloidodera floridensis with Emphasis on the Development of the Male
Hirschmann, H.; Triantaphyllou, A.C.
Journal of Nematology 5(3): 185-195
1973
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-300X PMID: 19319330 Document Number: 57453
Second-stage larvae of Meloidodera floridensis kept in tap water developed without feeding into small, slender males. They completed 3 moults, and the moulted cuticles remained superimposed. All organ systems were well developed in 3rd- and 4th-stage male larvae. Structures in the head region such as cephalic framework, stylet and oesophagus were smaller and differed morphologically from those of 2nd-stage larvae. Development of the male reproductive system was similar to that of other tylenchids, and sex was recognisable at the end of the 2nd moult. 2nd-stage larvae, developing in pine roots [Pinus taeda), increased in size and moulted 3 times to become ovoid to spherical females. Each larval stage had a stylet and fed actively. Sex could be determined at the end of the 2nd moult. Detailed observations were made on the development of the reproductive system, cuticle, oesophagus and tail region. [AS].