Chorionic Structure of the Egg of the Screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

Abstract

The chorion of the Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) egg is described using observations from scanning and transmission electron microscopy and light microscopy. Included are the gross structure and surface characteristics of the chorion, the basic architecture and internal components of the chorion proper, the location and function of the hatch lines, and the functional morphology of the plastron region as a respiratory structure. In the regular hexagonal arrangement and form of individual structural units, the chorion of the screwworm egg exhibits basic architectural features common to other higher Diptera. Within the open spaces of the endochorionic layer, however, are previously undescribed membranous structures of unknown function which appear to line the cavities of the endochorion. The plastron region partially encircles the micropyle (anterior end) of the egg and extends along the dorsal surface to the posterior pole; it is delineated laterally by the hatch lines. The chorion ruptures along the anterior region of the hatch lines as the larva emerges. The plastron region is composed of elaborate stalked aeropyles above a highly dissected inner reticulum. This structure is believed to function as a respiratory organ when the egg is immersed in fluid.