Corpus allatum and ovarian growth in a polymorphic paedogenetic insect

Abstract

IN parthenogenetically reproducing Aphis craccivora Koch, ovarian growth is initiated before birth and continues throughout larval life¹. Consequently, maintenance of the juvenile form and reproduction occur simultaneously in this insect. The corpus allatum has been shown to be active in both these processes in other insects where ovarian growth does not commence until after the larval stages are completed². To elucidate the role of the corpus allatum in the two simultaneous processes in A. craccivora, I have studied the gland and ovarian development during the larval stage. Both apterous and alate aphids were used as these two morphs have a different ovarian growth pattern in A. craccivora¹.