Ultrastructural studies on the vitellogenesis of Tetrodontophora bielanensis (Waga) (Collembola).

Vitellogenesis in Tetrodontophora bielanensis (Waga) is of the "mixed" type. Part of the yolk material is produced inside the oocyte (autosynthesis), while part is absorbed by micropinocytosis. During antosynthesis polyribosomes, rough endoplasmic reticulum and dictyosomes take part. Regardless of their origin, mature yolk spheres are constructed identically and are composed of three elements: cortex layer, matrix and crystals. Histochemical tests show that polysaccharides are present in the yolk spheres. Lipid droplets have been observed in the ooplasm; they develop without visible contact with any of the organelles. Among the reserve materials the following have been found: rough endoplasmic reticulum, dictyosomes, polyribosomes, mitochondria and a few microtubules.