Ultrastructure of sex pheromone gland cells in Lobesia botrana Den &Schiff. (Lepidoptera: Olethreutidae)

Abstract

In newly emerged and 48-h-old female adults of Lobesia botrana the sex pheromone gland cells are columnar. Organelles characteristic of lipid-producing cells are very prominent. Smooth tubular endoplasmic reticulum is extensively developed but few lipid droplets are observed. Numerous microbodies are present and are located, along with the Golgi complexes, primarily in the vicinity of the nucleus. The apical plasma membrane is folded. The cuticle overlying the gland cells differs from unmodified cuticle in the number and location of epicuticular filaments. They originate near the bases of the furrows between the apical folds.