Bacteria associated with the ectoperitrophic space in the midgut of the larva of the midge xylotopus par (Diptera: chironomidae).
An ectoperitrophic association of bacteria with the midgut of Xylotopus par larvae was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The bacteria attached to the epithelium as a well-defined band in the posterior midgut. They were morphotypically uniform and formed short filaments with endosporelike structures. The consistent presence and well-defined location of the bacteria in a region of the insect digestive tract usually void of microbes indicates a highly evolved symbiotic association, the nature of which is unknown at present.
Kaufman
M G
MG
Departments of Entomology and Microbiology and Public Health, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, and W. K. Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060.
Pankratz
H S
HS
Klug
M J
MJ