Wax secretion in a scale insect, Ceroplastes pseudoceriferus Green (Homoptera: Coccidae)

Waxy covering on the dorsum of Ceroplastes pseudoceriferus GREEN could be classified into two types, "wet wax" and "dry wax". Cuticular area covered with the "wet wax" has a number of dermal glands which consist of one principal cell and one to four accessory cells. The principal cells of the dermal glands were suggested to be responsible for the secretion of aqueous interior honeydew, a major component of the "wet wax". Another cuticular area of the dorsum covered with the "dry wax" does not have any glandular structures. Pore canals and related structures were considered to be concerned to the wax secretion on the dorsum. Quinquelocular disc pores and multilocular disc pores on the venter secrete waxy substances along the stigmatic furrows and around the vulva, respectivelyl; these pores were found to be openings of multicellular glands. Structures and functions of the waxy covering were discussed in relation to the mode of secretion.