Structural and ultrastructural features of the glands in the VI and VII gastral sternites of female Mischocyttarus (Kappa) atramentarius Zikán 1949 (Hymenoptera Vespidae)

Abstract

Mischocyttarus atramentarius deploys exocrine glands in the VI and VII sternites which closely resemble sternal glands in other Vespidae, in both biosynthesis and secretory release specializations. Preliminary findings on the highly patterned architecture of the end-apparatus are described and briefly discussed: it is proposed that the ultrastructural traits of these glands are consistent with the production and emission of molecules active as chemical signals.

KEY WORDS:

• Mischocyttarus
• sternal glands
• ultrastructure