Comparison of Microstructures on Elytral Disc of Some Species of the Genus Acmaeoderella Cobos, 1955 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)

Abstract

The external morphological characters of integumental scales in four species of Acmaeoderella Cobos, 1955 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) were examined using stereo microscope (Olympus SZX-12) and scanning electron microscope (JEOL JSM 6060 SEM). Dried museum materials that are deposited in ZMGU (Zoology Museum of Gazi University) were used in this study. Specimens were examined under the stereo microscope (Olympus SZX-12). Similarities and differences among the species were discussed. Although the scales look alike under the stereo microscope, they showed a rather different pattern under SEM. The fine structure of scales was shown to be useful for species diagnostics.