Morphological variations and distribution of various sensilla and scales on Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) using scanning electron microscope
摘要
Mosquito borne diseases affect hundreds of million people each year with a disproportionate impact on developing countries. Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector for viruses that cause dengue, yellow fever and zika. To gain a deep understanding, morphometric analysis of both sexes and the morphology, type and distribution of sensilla and scales of female mosquito were observed using Scanning Electron Microscope. The results showed that the maxillary palp of male are significantly longer than those in females and male antenna are densly covered with hairs compared to female antenna. The sensory mechanism of mosquitoes exerts substantial influence on their host-seeking and oviposition behaviors, facilitating the transmission of diverse diseases to humans. The reported sensilla and scales showed organ specific differences. Nine types of sensilla (three non-olfactory, six olfactory with 22 subtypes) and six types of scales were identified and observed on various regions of body. Most of olfactory sensilla were reported on the head appendages and non-olfactory sensilla on legs and wings. Different types of scales cover almost whole body of mosquito. In this study, the role of sensilla and scales were hypothesized based on comparative analysis with previous research. This study can provide valuable insight into the diversity of sensilla, and scales in female A. aegypti. It also highlights sex specific differences of various body segments in both sexes so, aiding in the development of better repellent or traps to prevent mosquito bites. Studying mosquito scales can provide valuable insight in species identification, sensory adaptation and disease transmission.