Embryonic Development and Diapause Stage in Panonychus Mites (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Abstract

Embryonic development was studied to elucidate the diapause stage of four spider mite species belonging to the genus Panonychus. Liquid paraffin proved to be useful for continuous observation of living embryos. Embryonic development was divided into 18 stages, which were illustrated and described. The initial phase of embryonic development was characterized by two total and equal divisions. This was followed a superficial cleavage. Embryonic development of diapause eggs was suppressed at the late blastula stage shortly before the appendage formation.