alcian-blue and ferric-ferricyanide

Histochemical study of the proventriculus from stingless bee Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides revealed for the first time the presence of cysteine-rich proteins in the cuticle that covers the bulb of the proventriculus and its associated hair-like process. The presence of tyrosine-rich proteins was observed in the same structure, but not in hair-like projections. The cuticle of the crop and a small portion of the proventriculus contained no acid carbohydrates or fats and small amounts of neutral carbohydrates. These results are discussed in relation to different composition of insect cuticle depending on its different functions.

Topics: Alcian Blue; Animals; Bees; Carbohydrates; Coloring Agents; Cysteine; Epidermis; Ferricyanides; Histocytochemistry; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Periodic Acid-Schiff Reaction; Proteins; Tolonium Chloride; Tyrosine