Embryogenesis of the dipluran Lepidocampa weberi Oudemans (hexapoda: diplura, campodeidae): formation of dorsal organ and related phenomena

The developmental changes of embryonic membranes of a dipluran Lepidocampa weberi, with special reference to dorsal organ formation, are described in detail by light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopies. Newly differentiated germ band and serosa secrete the blastodermic cuticle at the entire egg surface beneath the chorion. Soon after, the serosal cells start to move dorsad. All the serosal cells finally concentrate at the dorsal side of the egg and form the dorsal organ. During their concentration, the serosal cells attenuate their cytoplasm to form filaments. The extensive area from which the serosa has receded is occupied by a second embryonic membrane, the amnion, which originates from the embryonic margin. The embryo and newly emerged amnion then secrete three fine cuticular layers, "cuticular lamellae I, II, and III," above which the filaments of the (developing) dorsal organ are situated. With the progression of definitive dorsal closure, the amnion reduces its extension, the dorsal organ is incorporated into the body cavity of the embryo, and the amnion and dorsal organ finally degenerate.The dorsal organ of diplurans is formed by the concentration of whole serosal cells, while that of collembolans is formed by the direct differentiation of a part of serosal cells. However, the dorsal organs of diplurans and collembolans closely resemble each other in major aspects, including that of ultrastructural features, and there is no doubt regarding their homology. The amnion, which has been regarded as being a characteristic of Ectognatha, also develops in the Diplura. This might suggest a closer affinity between the Diplura and Ectognatha than previously believed.