Structure and distribution of antennal sensilla in the centipede Cryptops hortensis (Donovan, 1810) (Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha)

Abstract

Scanning electron microscopical investigation of the antennae of adult Cryptops hortensis (Donovan, 1810) shows the presence of 6 types of cuticular sensilla: 1. sensilla trichodea, 2. sensilla microtrichodea, 3. sensilla brachyconica, 4. sensilla basiconica, 5. club-shaped sensilla, and 6. hat-like sensilla. They are located on all antennal articles. The number of the different types of sensilla differs: More than 4000 sensilla trichodea per antenna, more than 100 sensilla microtrichodea at the base of different antennal articles, 50 to 100 sensilla basiconica at the distal edges of the antennal articles 6 to 16, and additionally, a few club-shaped and hat-like sensilla at the same articles are recorded. The hat-like sensilla of centipedes are new and not been reported before. The structure and distribution of the six types of antennal sensilla of C. hortensis are compared with the antennal sensilla of other centipedes. Possible functions of the sensilla in C. hortensis are discussed.