Structure of the ephippium of Daphnia pulex (Crustacea: Cladocera)

Terry W. Schultz, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Abstract

The external surface of the ephippium of Daphnia pulex bears numerous, randomly distributed pits which are formed by the thickening of the brood chamber cuticle. The internal surface is covered by a thin amorphous sheet below which lies a polygonal matrix or lattice. In section, the wall of the ephippium is shown to be formed by several layers. The exterior is the thing epicuticle. The second or middle layer, the procuticle, is subdivided into an outer, thick laminated or banded region, a middle polygonal matrix of varying thickness, and an inner, thin, irregular lattice region. Innermost is an amorphous noncellular later within which are observed bacteria-like particles.