Fundamentals of Entomology

Respiration in aquatic insects

1.Closed tracheal system:
In some aquatic and many endoparasitic larvae spiracles are absent and the tracheae divide peripherally to form a network. This covers the body surface, allowing cutaneous gas exchange.          e.g. Gills : Tracheated thin outgrowth of body wall.
Lamellate gills - mayfly naiad
Filamentous gills - damselfly naiad
Rectal gills - dragonfly naiad

2. Open tracheal system:
i. Air store: Air bubble stored beneath wings acts as physical gill, e.g. water bug.
ii.Respiratory siphon - e.g. Wriggler
iii.Caudal breathing tube -e.g. Water scorpion
iv. Plastron : Closely set hydrofuge hairs of epicuticle hold a thin film of air indefinitely.