Histological and Electron Microscopy Observations on the Alimentary Canal and Malpighian Tubules of the Strawberry Pest Coraebus elatus (Fabricius, 1787) (Coleoptera, Buprestidae)

ABSTRACT Coraebus elatus (Fabricius, 1787) (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) is known as a strawberry pest, making it an essential target for pest control strategies. Despite its impact, no studies have examined the anatomical and histological structures of the alimentary canal and Malpighian tubules of C. elatus . Therefore, this study aimed to describe these structures in detail, which could provide insights into potential control methods. Ten individuals were collected and histologically processed, with observations made using stereo, light and electron microscopies. The alimentary canal is divided into three sections: the foregut, midgut and hindgut. The foregut comprises the pharynx, oesophagus, crop and proventriculus. A gastric caeca pair lies at the proximal anterior end of the midgut. The midgut is the longest portion. The Malpighian tubules, whose proximal ends open into the midgut and hindgut, have distal ends that connect to the colon wall. The hindgut is further subdivided into the ileum, colon and rectum. The rectum, the final segment of the alimentary canal, has a thick muscular wall and a more pronounced intima layer than the other hindgut regions. Cross sectional SEM images show six rectal pads where the final absorption of nutrients occurs. These findings may lead to new strategies for controlling this agricultural pest. Understanding these structures is crucial for further research.