Neurosecretory cells in Dysdercus similis (Hemiptera)

The neurosecretory cells of Dysdercus similis have been described. "A", "B", "C" and "D" types of neurosecretory cells are present. The "A" type of cells of the pars-intercerebralis show cyclical secretion. When these cells show secretory activity during one to three days of emergence, they have scattered granules. The cells are seen packed with clumps of neurosecretory material when they are not secreting, and this is interpreted as a storage stage. The axons of these cells supply the corpora cardiaca and some neurosecretory material also reaches the corpus allatum. The release of this neurosecretory material can be correlated both with moulting in the young stages and later with reproduction in the adults.