Postembryogenesis of Meloidodera floridensis with Emphasis on the Development of the Male

Abstract

Second-stage larvae of Meloidodera floridensis kept in tap water developed without feeding into small, slender males. They completed three molts, and the molted cuticles remained superimposed. All organ systems were well developed in third- and fourth-stage male larvae. Structures in the head region such as cephalic framework, styler and esophagus were smaller and differed morphologically from those of second-stage larvae. Development of the male reproductive system was similar to that of other tylenchids, and sex was recognizable at the end of the second molt. Second-stage larvae, developing in pine roots, increased in size and molted three times to become ovoid to spherical females. Each larval stage had a stylet and fed actively. Sex could be determined at the end of the second molt. Detailed observations were made on the development of the reproductive system, cuticle, esophagus and tail region. Key Words: morphology, pine cystoid nematode.