CROP AND MIDGUT FILLING AND EMPTYING IN FEMALE PHORMIA-REGINA (DIPTERA, CALLIPHORIDAE) FED A LIVER DIET

To study the role of the crop in protein storage, crop and midgut fill ing in female Phormia regina (Meigen) was measured volumetrically and the soluble protein content determined. During a 4-h feeding period on homogenized liver, nonligated females consumed and stored enough prot ein in the crop and midgut to develop a normal compliment of eggs. Wit hin 26 h from the onset of feeding, 75% of the protein content of the crop and a similar amount from the midgut were emptied. Neck ligation or sham neck ligation 7 h after females fed to repletion slowed but st ill allowed delivery of sufficient protein for egg development.