X-Ray Diffraction Studies on Waxy Covering of Scale Insects (Homoptera : Coccoidea)

Abstract

X-ray diffraction techniques were applied to investigate the physical properties of waxy coverings of scale insects. The diffraction patterns indicated that most of the scale insects examined contain some crystalline substances in their waxy coverings or scales. Diffraction peaks of various intensities were found at the diffraction angle (2θ) of 21.0-21.5°. These peaks disappeared completely by extraction of the coverings or scales with chloroform. Lattice spacing of the crystalline substances were calculated as 4.1 Å and coincided to short spacings of long-chain lipid compounds.