Structure of the organs of digestion and reproduction in the Tortoise Beetle,Aspidomorphaspp. (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera)

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Abstract
The structure of the alimentary and reproductive organs in 2 spp. of the tortoise-beetle Aspidomorpha was studied. A. dissentanea and A. isparetta differed in body length, proportionate lengths of alimentary organs and texture of the external surface of the gut. Females of both species were larger than their male counterparts. The alimentary organs, once formed, did not undergo any structural change during and after metamorphosis. Stomodaeal valves were poorly developed. A pair of midgut accessory glands probably performed the role of the salivary gland. The pyloric valve was an occlusor mechanism as well as an active secretory and absorptive organ. The Malpighian tubules were 6 in number and were present in the cryptonephridial condition. An attempt was made to relate structure of the alimentary organs to their functions. Fifteen ovarioles composed each ovary; each testis was made up of 14-15 follicles. The 1st appearance of the reproductive organs on particular days after pupation was described. The accessory glands in the female reproductive organs produced a viscous secretion which hardened around the fertilized eggs to form an ootheca.