Riboflavin and Other Fluorescent Compounds in a Developing Egg (Orthoptera)

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Abstract
A quantitative study has been made of the riboflavin and other fluorescent compounds in the egg of the grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis) throughout its entire development. The average amt. of riboflavin in the egg of the grasshopper is 15-17 [gamma] per gr. wet wt. Total fluorescence of the egg at pH 4.5 remains practically constant throughout development. The egg when laid contains riboflavin and a nonreducible, nondiffusible fraction, fluorescing at pH 4.5. This fraction makes up approx. one-third of the total fluorescence of the egg at pH 4.5. A nonreducible, non-diffusible fraction, fluorescing at pH 10, is also present in the egg when laid. This fraction makes up less than 1/3 of the total fluorescence of the egg at pH 10. Riboflavin, as such, remains constant in amt. until late in the development (post-diapause) of the embryo. Late in development there are produced fluorescent compounds which are diffusible and fluoresce in both acid (pH 4.5) and alkaline (pH 10) media. In acid medium (pH 4.5) they are reducible. These compounds produced late in the development of the egg are thought to resemble pterines. A marked economy in the use of riboflavin by the egg during its development is pointed out. No free riboflavin is found in the nymph when hatched.

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