Sensing from both ends - transformation of formerly locomotory into sensory arthropodia in terminal trunk segments of centipedes
DFG Projekt SO1289/1
The arthropodium has adapted many different shapes and is thus able to perform a vast of different functions. Among arthropod taxa, trunk legs, primarily used for locomotion, were transformed many times independently into appendages of various functions and are thus considered excellent study models to understand pathways of adaptation and evolution.
Among Myriapoda, Chilopoda (centipedes) are characterized by their venomous forcipules - evolutionarily transformed walking legs of the first trunk segment. In addition, the posterior end of the centipedes' body, in particular the ultimate legs, exhibits a remarkable morphological heterogeneity. Not participating in locomotion, they hold a vast functional diversity. In many centipede species, elongation and annulation in combination with an augmentation of sensory structures indicates a functional shift towards a sensory appendage. In other species, thickening, widening and reinforcement with a multitude of cuticular protuberances and glandular systems suggests a role in both attack and defense. Moreover, sexual dimorphic characteristics indicate that centipede ultimate legs play a pivotal role in intraspecific communication, mate finding and courtship behavior.
We explore the sensory equipment, innervation patterns and function of terminal legs of selected centipede species using multimodal microscopic (LM, µCT, SEM, TEM, cLSM), immunohistochemistry, and electrophysiological techniques. Comparisons with antennae and walking legs will unravel potential constructional morphological constraints in the course of evolutionary transformation from former walking legs in what is assumed to be sensory appendages.
Supported by the German Science Foundation DFG SO1289/1
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