The hemocytes of a millipede, Thyropygus poseidon

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Abstract
Some of the cytological and histochemical characteristics of hemocytes of Thyropygus poseidon were studied. Jone's system of classification of hemocytes was extended to millipede hemocytes. Seven classes were identified as prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granular hemocytes, cytocytes, oenocytoids, spherule cells and adipohemocytes. Oenocytoids were rarely found. All cells except prohemocytes and oenocytoids sequestered oxidized products of catechol. Results of the histochemical tests for proteins also suggest that these cells sequester plasma proteins. Cytocytes do not bring about any visible coagulation similar to the hemocytes of some hemipteran insects. Granular hemocytes contain phenol‐oxidase capable of oxidising tyrosine as well as catechol, similar to the hemocytes of crustaceans. In this respect millipede hemocytes differ from insect hemocytes. It is suggested that these cell types may represent distinct cell lines and may not represent transformation of one cell type to another.