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Quarterly Journal of Microscopical Science, Vol s3-100, 41-50, Copyright © 1959 by Company of Biologists

An Examination of the Cuticles of two Scorpions, Pandinus imperator and Scorpiops hardwickii

J. KENNAUGH 1

1 Department of Zoology, the University, Manchester

The cuticles of Pandinus imperator and Scorpiops hardwickii have been examined histologically and histochemically. They consist of a two-layered epicuticle, a hyaline exocuticle, a quinone-tanned exocuticle, an impregnated but untanned exocuticle, and on the inner surface an unmodified procuticle. The hyaline exocuticle is, however, single in Scorpiops and double in Pandinus. With the exception of the hyaline exocuticle the cuticles therefore conform to the basic arthropod pattern.

The quinone-tanned exocuticle closely corresponds with that of insects but the hyaline exocuticle seems to have no counterpart in other arthropods. The sulphur content of the cuticle has been determined and it is probable that sulphur is present only in the hyaline exocuticle.

The statement by Krishnan that chitin is present in the epicuticle is critically examined and a possible explanation of the differences which have been reported between the cuticles of different scorpions is offered.







© The Company of Biologists Ltd 1959