Microscopic anatomy of the integument and digestive system during the molt cycle in Ligia italica (Oniscidea)

The molt cycle of Ligia italica was divided into four stages with altogether eight sub-stages. The average duration of the molt cycle was determined in laboratory animals. Males and non-breeding females molt every 15 days, breeding females molt every 34 days. Molt-related changes in the infrastructure of the anterior sternal integument and digestive system were investigated with scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Calcium storage and translocation in the integument and the midgut glands during the molt cycle were examined with cytochemical methods. The total calcium concentrations in the midgut glands and haemolymph were determined. Calcium is resorbed from the old cuticle prior to ecdysis and…