Maturation of the immune system of the male house cricket, Acheta domesticus

- We examined the maturation of the immune system of male Acheta domesticus crickets.
- Circulating hemocytes and lysozyme-like activity were similar for all stages.
- Nymphs had significantly lower total phenoloxidase enzyme activity than adults.
- However, nymphs could encapsulate a nylon thread just as well as adults.
- Encapsulation ability was thus independent of total phenoloxidase activity.