THE CORPUS ALLATUM AND OÖCYTE MATURATION IN ADELPHOCORIS LINEOLATUS (GOEZE) (HEMIPTERA: MIRIDAE)

Abstract

The corpus allatum undergoes marked changes in volume and histological appearance during egg maturation in the adult female of Adelphacoris lineolatus (Goeze). The allatum is very active just before yolk is deposited in the developing oöcytes, but activity declines rapidly at oviposition. This activity in the corpus allatum cannot be correlated with cyclical activity in the cerebral neurosecretory cells. Experiments involving removal of the corpus allatum show that the gland is necessary for oöcyte growth. Implantation of active corpora allata into allatectomized females will not restore egg maturation, and the implanted glands lose their secretory ability. It seems that the corpus allatum in this insect must retain anatomical connection with the central nervous system to produce its hormone.