Venoms of Coleoptera

Abstract

The toxins of only 12 families of Coleoptera have so far been studied; these include carabids, cerambycids, chrysomelids, coccinellids, staphylinids and tenebrionids. Information is presented on the toxins produced by each of the 12 families, on the morphology and histology of the toxin-producing glands, extraction methods, methods of purification and structural elucidation, and biosynthesis. The biological and physiological effects of the toxins are discussed. It is noted that the haemolymph of Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) contains a protein (leptotarsin) that is lethal when injected into mice and species of Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera (but not examples of L. decemlineata) and Diptera. ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT: The toxins of only 12 families of Coleoptera, including blister beetles (Meloidae), have so far been studied. Information is presented on the toxins produced by each of these families, on the morphology and histology of the toxin-producing glands, extraction methods, methods of purification and structural elucidation, and biosynthesis. The biological and physiological effects of the toxins, which are used primarily for defence against predators, are discussed.