The mechanoreceptors on the endophytic ovipositor of the dragonfly Aeshna cyanea (Odonata, Aeshnidae)

•We investigated the mechanoreceptors on the endophytic ovipositor of a dragonfly.•They are pegs, pit organs type 1, pit organs type 2, mononematic scolopidia.•They probably perceive compression/stretching of the ovipositor's thick cuticle.•This is coherent with the need of females to evaluate the stiffness of the plant.

This study investigates the mechanoreceptors located on the cutting valvulae of the ovipositor of the dragonfly Aeshna cyanea (Aeshnidae), using both SEM and TEM, with the aim of providing an overview of the sensory equipment of an odonatan endophytic ovipositor. Four kinds of sensilla have been described. Notwithstanding their different external and internal morphology, they show features typical of mechanoreceptors. Three of them are evident along the external surface of the two cutting valvulae in the form of sub-spherical pegs, pit organs type 1 (holes) and pit organs type 2 (depressions), these last are similar to amphinematic scolopidia, while the fourth type is represented by subintegumental mononematic scolopidia having no direct relationship with the cuticle. In spite of their structural differences, the morphology of the described mechanoreceptors is consistent with performing a main role in allowing the perception of compression/stretching of the thick cuticle of the valvulae and their bending due to the pressure acting on the distal end of the ovipositor during substrate penetration. Such an organization is coherent with the need of endophytic Odonata to be able to evaluate the stiffness of the plant where to lay eggs.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide