Secretory material from antennal organs and its possible role in mating behaviour of Pipunculidae (Diptera)

The study of antennal morphology of entomoparasitic flies belonging to the family Pipunculidae (Diptera) revealed the presence of a developed secretory system area on the third antennal segment (flagellum) of pipunculid males. The possible physiological function of this system is discussed. Socketed mechanotactile bristles, two types of basiconical sensilla, one type of grooved sensilla, and a sensory pit form the sensillar system of pipunculid antennae. The morphology of these sensilla and the pattern of their distribution are presented. The discovery of a secretory system in male antennae reveals the possible complex role of antennae in courtship behaviour of pipunculid flies.