The Subgenus Persicargas (Ixodoidea, Argasidae, Argas) 15. Histology and Histochemistry of the Salivary Glands of A. (P.) persicus (Oken)12

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Abstract
The salivary glands of Argas (Persicargas) persicus (Oken) consist of 2 types of alveoli. Type A alveoli, aggregated around and directly connected to the main salivary duct through shorter alveolar ducts, appear syncytial with finely granulated, fibrillar cytoplasm, and 1 large and several small nuclei. The cytoplasm contains proteins and phospholipids and fine PAS-positive granules. Type B alveoli, connected by branching secondary alveolar ducts to the main salivary duct, are formed of 3 cell types (Ba, Bb, and Bc) representing synthetic sites for at least 3 functional salivary components. One or 2 Ba cells at the alveolus base contain PAS-positive granules rich in tryptophan-containing proteins, and phospholipids. Two or more Bb cells next to Ba cells secrete granules containing neutral mucopolysaccharides and proteins rich in tyrosine. The others are Bc cells containing large PAS- and protein-positive globules showing a moderate degree of metachromasia. Histochemical tests suggest that Ba cell secretion may contribute a pharmacologically active substance to the saliva. Bb cells may produce a lytic salivary component. Bc cells may produce a moderately sulphated anticoagulant which becomes active as the tick feeds. Type A alveoli probably contribute watery secretions to the saliva. The results show that the 3 cell types are not different steps in secretion of a single salivary substance, as believed by previous workers.

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