ptilinium noun, plural ptilina - a modification of the frons found in schizophorous diptera (Calyptratae and Acalyptratae). This is an inflatable sack, thrust through the ptilinial suture (just above the base of the antennae) found in teneral flies; it aids in emergence from the puparium and in burrowing out through soil to the surface (1).

Print References

Gordh, p. 753 (1)

Works Cited

1.	A Dictionary of Entomology By George Gordh, David H. Headrick

Contributed by Cotinis on 21 September, 2008 - 4:56am

Disclaimer: Dedicated naturalists volunteer their time and resources here to provide this service. We strive to provide accurate information, but we are mostly just amateurs attempting to make sense of a diverse natural world. If you need expert professional advice, contact your local extension office.

Contributors own the copyright to and are solely responsible for contributed content.
Click the contributor's name for licensing and usage information.
Everything else copyright © 2003-2009 Iowa State University, unless otherwise noted.

Bugguide is hosted by Iowa State University Entomology.

Printer Friendly Version