Wax production by coccinellid larvae (Coleoptera)

Abstract

Abstract. Details of wax and wax‐producing structures belonging to twenty species of coccinellid larvae, including members of the Scymnini, Ortaliini, Hyperaspini, Coccidulini, Noviini, Cryptognathini, Azyini and Telsimiini are described and/or illustrated with photographs taken by means of the scanning electron microscope. Published records of wax‐production by larvae of Telsimiini and Chilocorini are examined and evaluated. The means by which wax precursors reach the outer surface of the epicuticle is discussed. Some of the physical properties of coccinellid and other waxes, such as their adhesiveness and UV reflectance, are recorded and the ecological significance of these factors is discussed. The contribution made by the present study to current opinion concerning the classification and possible phylogeny of the Coccinellidae is discussed and assessed.