Acoustic tracheal rupture provides insights into larval mosquito respiration.

ABSTRACT: Acoustic larviciding (AL) occurs by exposing mosquito larvae to acoustic energy that ruptures their dorsal tracheal trunks (DTTs) by the expulsion of gas bubbles into the body. In studying this technique, we serendipitously identified undescribed anatomical and physiological respiratory features. The classical theory of respiration is that the siphon and DTTs play obligate roles in respiration. Our results contradict the accepted theory that culicine larvae respire via atmospheric gas exchange. We identified an undescribed tracheal occlusion (TO) at the posterior extremities the DTTs. The TOs appear necessary for the acoustic rupture of DTTs; this constriction prevents the escape of energized gas from the siphon and allows the tracheal system to be pressurized. With a pressurized isolated

SUBMITTER: Nyberg HJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7012908 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature