Abstract
The integument of Parathalestris harpactoides (Claus, 1863) is studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The general structure of the integument conforms to the common pattern known from Copepoda. Emphasis is given to the structural variation of the cuticle in different regions of the body. The cuticle measures about 6 µm in most parts of the body, and shows a laminate appearance. The epicuticle is about 60 nm thick. Numerous pore canals containing muscular tonofilaments penetrate the procuticular layer of the integument. A peculiar feature is the presence of a ‘honeycombed’ layer in the outermost zone of the cuticle of some parts of the body. The epidermal layer, muscle insertions and integumental pores are of common type. The cuticle of some specimens, both males and females, is covered with microorganisms.
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Bresciani, J., Dams, HU. The integumental ultrastructure of Parathalestris harpactoides (Claus, 1863) (copepoda, harpacticoida). Hydrobiologia 292, 137–142 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00229933
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00229933