A new method using acid to clean and a technique for preparation of eggs of biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) for Scanning Electron Microscope

RONDEROS, M.M., F. DIAZ & P. SARMIENTO

TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY

AMER ENTOMOL SOC

Lugar: Philadelfia; Año: 2009 vol. 134 p. 471 - 476

0002-8320

A new procedure for clearing eggs of the genus of the Ceratopogonidae family is compared. In the new procedure, eggs in different state, with different ultra structures of the exochorion were immersed in 10% glycolic acid (CH2OH-COOH) and mandellic acid (C6H5.CHOH.COOH) 20 % for 1-4 minutes. Eggs, prepared by both acids and subsequently, neutralized by distilled water, were placed in a saturated solution of phenol, and then, they were passed through a battery of alcohols. Finally, critical point was performed and gold metallized. After preparation, the eggs of this group retained their natural form under vacuum long enough to yield good microphotographs of the outer layer of the chorion.