Venoms of Rhyncota (Hemiptera)

Abstract

It is pointed out that the Heteroptera include many species of medical and veterinary interest, as vectors of diseases of man and other animals, and also many of agricultural interest, either as plant pests or as vectors of viruses and other diseases. This chapter is concerned with 5 families of aquatic and 9 of terrestrial Hemiptera. The morphology and histology of the scent glands that form part of the insects' defence system are outlined, and lists are presented of those species that have been studied in this regard. The chemistry of the defensive secretions is reviewed and discussed in relation to biological function and significance. ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT: Many species of Heteroptera are of agricultural importance, as plant pests or as vectors of viruses and other diseases affecting plants. This chapter is concerned with 5 families of aquatic Hemiptera and 9 families of terrestrial Hemiptera. It is pointed out that knowledge of toxins produced by Homoptera is at present restricted to isolates from Aphis nerii Boy. The toxins isolated from the aquatic and terrestrial bugs considered are shown in tables and discussed, and the morphology and histology of the scent glands producing these secretions as part of the insects' defence system are discussed.