Secretion of embryonic envelopes and embryonic molting cycles in Hemioniscus balani Buchholz, Isopoda Epicaridea

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Abstract
The fertilized egg of Hemioniscus balani, a viviparous isopod, is encased in two envelopes, I and II, the structure of which is described.In the course of its development, the embryo secretes five successive sacs called embryonic envelopes. Both their structure and the means of secretion by the embryo are analyzed through thin sections. The presence of these successive secretion cycles together with exuviations involving these embryonic envelopes lead us to believe that during embryonic development in Hemioniscus balani, embryonic molting cycles exist.The appearance and shedding of the envelopes of the fertilized egg and embryo allow determination of ten embryonic stages which are briefly described.