FREE AMINO-ACIDS IN THE HEMOLYMPH OF THE COCKROACH, BLABERUS-DISCOIDALIS

The concentrations of free amino acids in the hemolymph of adult males of the cockroach Blaberus discoidalis were determined by automated am ino acid analysis. Eighteen of the twenty standard amino acids as well as two nonstandard amino acids (hydroxyproline and omithine) were fou nd. Aspartic acid and cysteine were not present. Proline levels were u p to 100-fold higher than those of any other amino acid. Total amino a cid concentration was comparable to those reported for most other cock roaches. The reported amino acid profile formed the basis for an organ culture medium which sustained metabolic viability of isolated B. dis coidalis neuroendocrine glands and brain-gland complexes for at least 24 hr.