Microstructure of the tarsal adhesive organs in the bark beetle Ips acuminatus, and their implication as external carriers of pathogens

► We observe microstructure of the tarsal attachment system in Ips acuminatus. ► Pretarsal claws have apical diverged hooks to hold rough substrates. ► Tarsal pads are composed of hairy setae with a spatula-shaped endplate. ► Cuticular surface of the pad has a sufficient space to accept yeast-like spores. ► Implication ability of pads to act as external carriers of pathogens is discussed.