Date of Award:

5-1-1969

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Biology

Department name when degree awarded

Physiology

Committee Chair(s)

Raymond T. Sanders

Committee

Raymond T. Sanders

Committee

Nabil Youssef

Committee

George E. Bohart

Abstract

The sensilla on the labial palpus of the honey bee, Apis mellifera L. have been investigated employing an electrophysiological technique that permits simultaneous stimulation and recording. A detailed electrophysiological study of the two types of sensilla found on the palpi has been completed. The results of this study present evidence that four sense cells are associated with the short sensilla basiconica: three are chemoreceptors responding to cations, sugar, and water, respectively; the fourth is a mechanoreceptor. A definite tactile sense cell is associated with the long sensilla trichodea. The results suggest that chemoreceptors are also present in the long sensilla; however, they are not identified. The data concerning the sensory receptors agree with the current theories of chemo- and mechanoreception.

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