Actually, does anybody know, or can you give me a reference which gives the information on the role and/or function of scales on Culicidae body? Are they innervated? Are Culicidae the only Dipteran with scales?
The mosquito's legs are covered by numerous scales consisting of the uniform microscale longitudinal ridges and nanoscale cross ribs Such special delicate microstructure and/or nanostructure on the leg surface give a water contact angle of approximately 153 degrees and give a surprising high water-supporting ability. It was found that the water-supporting force of a single leg of the mosquito is about 23 times the body weight of the mosquito, compared with a water strider's leg giving a water-supporting force of about 15 times the body weight of the insect. Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17677603
Thank you so much for this. This does not really explain why they are covered with scales, on their scutelum, head, and abdomen, but this is at least a beginning of an explanation... Thank's again
Work on scales on mosquito body is scanty. What is the exact mechanism of scales and hair is worth exploring. Besides other suggestions, do the scales add to beautification? The most beautiful mosquito species, which I have examined, is the female of Aedes (Indusius) pulverulentus. But her male is ugly, no scales, no hair - totally nude, Such a dimorphism I have yet to see in any other mosquto species.
Hello,
There are several potential functions either sensory or secretory depending where they are located on the body (Abdomen, wings). Scales also have physical functions (legs) like water support allowing the mosquito to float.
Best,
G.Lemperiere
Please also check the following:
-Jacquet M, Lebon C., Lemperiere G & Boyer S. 2012. Behavioural functions of grooming in malesAedes
albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae), the Asian Tiger Mosquito. Appl. Ent. Zool.
Best,
Guy
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