Body pigmentation during embryogenesis first found in stoneflies: a case of Megaperlodes niger Yokoyama, Isobe & Yamamoto, 1990 (Insecta: Plecoptera, Perlodidae)

Abstract

We examined and described the later stages of embryonic development and first instar nymphs of the stonefly Megaperlodes niger Yokoyama, Isobe & Yamamoto, 1990 to document its body pigmentation during embryogenesis. Pigmentation commences at the periphery of egg tooth when the definitive dorsal closure is almost completed. Full-grown embryos have their heads pigmented dark-red, the first thoracic segment yellowish in colour, and the posterolateral margin of second and third thoracic segments slightly reddish. The colouration of first instar nymphs is almost the same as full-grown embryos, and the lateral margin of the first two abdominal segments is pigmented red. Our finding that body pigmentation occurring at M. niger embryogenesis is the first known report of plecopteran. embryos and hatchlings, contributing to further understanding of the nymphal biology of this species.