Fig. 5

Semithin sections of the integument of Hyalomma dromedarii nymph. a Integument before molting, showing epicuticle (Ep) covered with wax layer (W), procuticle (Pr) that consists of exocuticle (Ex) with pore canals (Pc) and endocuticle (En) with lamellar organization (asterisk), epidermis (epi) and exuvial space (arrow). b Dermal gland before molting consists of dermal duct (Dd) and 2–5 dermal cells (Dc), epicuticle (Ep), procuticle (Pr) and epidermis (epi). c integument during molting with formation of new cuticle (Nc) with epicuticle (Ep), exocuticle (Ex), endocuticle (En) and epidermis (epi), and shedding of old one (Oc) with epicuticle (Ep) and procuticle (Pr). d Integument after molting, epicuticle (Ep) covered with thick wax layer (W), undifferentiated procuticle (Pr) with pore canals (Pc), and single epidermal layer (epi) with large nucleus (N). e Dermal gland after molting consists of wide dermal duct (Dd) and 2–5 small dermal cells (Dc), epicuticle (Ep) with thick wax layer (W), procuticle (Pr) and epidermis (epi). f Treated integument with eroded areas (arrows) in epicuticle (Ep), procuticle (Pr) with disorganized exocuticle (Ex) and coagulated endocuticle (En), and damaged epidermis (epi) that lysed in some areas (asterisk). g Treated dermal gland with erected duct (Dd), epicuticle (Ep), procuticle (Pr) and epidermis (epi).