Morphology and Distribution of Antennal Sensilla in the Lappet Moth Gastropacha quercifolia (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae)

ABSTRACT

The lappet moth, Gastropacha quercifolia Felder et Felder, 1862, is a highly polyphagous species in the family Lasiocampidae that poses a significant threat to forestry and crops across multiple ecosystems. This study investigated the external morphology and ultrastructure of the adult antennae of G. quercifolia using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The antennae of both male and female individuals are bipectinate in shape and comprise three segments: scape, pedicel, and flagellum. Nine distinct types of antennal sensilla were identified: sensilla chaetica (I and II), sensilla coeloconica (I and II), sensilla trichodea, sensilla basiconica (I and II), sensilla styloconica, sensilla squamiformia (I and II), sensilla gemmiformia, sensilla campaniformia, and Böhm bristles (I and II). These findings provide morphological foundation for functional analyses of sensilla in G. quercifolia , with implications for behavioral and taxonomic studies.