Exoskeleton anchoring to tendon cells and muscles in molting isopod crustaceans

• DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.176.2445
• Publication Date: 2012-03-20T13:13:40Z
• Authors: Nada Žnidaršič; Polona Mrak; Magda Tušek-Žnidarič; Jasna Strus
• Keywords: Cuticle (hair); Arthropod cuticle; Integumentary system; Epidermis (zoology); Adherens junction

Specialized mechanical connection between exoskeleton and underlying muscles in arthropods is a complex network of interconnected matrix constituents, junctions associated cytoskeletal elements, which provides prominent attachment the epidermis to cuticle transmits muscle tensions exoskeleton. This linkage involves anchoring extracellular composing apical membrane tendon cells linking basally. The ultrastructural arhitecture these complexes during molting an important issue relation integument integrity maintenance course replacement movement ability. aim this work was determine organization - terrestrial isopod crustaceans, stage when integumental epithelium covered by both, newly forming old detached cuticle. We show that extensively mechanically connected regions sites massive arrays fibers adult premolt Ligia italica prehatching embryos marsupial mancas Porcellio scaber. Fibers expand from cells, traverse new ecdysal space protrude into distal layers They likely serve as final before exuviation may be involved animal movements stage. Tendon embryo display substantial apicobasally oriented transcellular microtubules, evidently engaged myotendinous cuticular matrix. structural framework musculoskeletal basically established described intramarsupial developmental stages, suggesting its involvement motility within marsupium.