Fine structure of ocelli of the larval black fly Simulium vittatum (Diptera: Simuliidae)
The fine structure of light- and dark-adapted ocelli of last instar larval Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt was described using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Larvae have six ocelli arranged in groups of three on each side of the head. The larger two ocelli of each group are externally visible as two darkly pigmented eyespots. The third, smaller ocellus lacks pigmentation and, therefore, is not externally visible. Each ocellus has its long axis oriented dorso-ventrally, has 13 retinular cells, and lacks an expanded cuticular lens. Conspicuous rhabdoms occur in the three ocelli. The rhabdoms of the pigmented ocelli are centrally located and enveloped by pigment granules. The microvilli of the rhabdoms are oriented primarily in one plane, an indication of a possible sensitivity to polarized light. The rhabdom of the unpigmented ocellus is eccentrically located and its microvilli are not uniplanar. Each ocellus has numerous cell organelles, including mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi bodies. Especially conspicuous are membranous figures, which are associated with the nuclei and vary in size and complexity from simple stacks to lamellar whorls. These latter organelles are probably involved in the turnover processes of the rhabdomeric membranes. In light- and dark-adapted ocelli the only structural differences were associated with the microvilli and multivesicular bodies. Differences in location of pigment granules and in size of rhabdomeres and membranous figures were not observed.