Some cytological features of follicle cells in an ovariole of the carpenter bee (Xylocopa virginica virginica) (L) (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

摘要

The histology, cytology and ultrastructure of thin and ultrathin sections of ovarioles of the adult X. virginica virginica were studied using light and transmission electron microscopy. The work revealed an apparently previously unreported occurrence of intracellular paired membrane configurations in follicle cells of an ovariole and confirmed the presence in follicle cells of somatic intercellular bridges previously reported in follicle cells in a variety of bees, but not in the carpenter bee. Microtubules and bacteroids were also seen in the follicle cells.