Ultrastructural dynamics of the corpus allatum of Choleva angustata Fab. (Coleoptera, Catopidae).

The ultrastructure of the corpora allata (CA) during postembryonic stages of Choleva angustata Fab. shows cyclic changes, in particular regarding the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria. During the last larval instar, at the short transitory period which follows the cessation of alimentation, we observed a highly unusual appearance of the CA, characterized by intensive vacuolization. After this transitory period, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ser) disappears until the imago emerges. These observations along with our experimental data permit a physiological interpretation.