Excretion in the Blood-Sucking Bug, Rhodnius Prolixus Stål: II. The Normal Course of Diuresis and the Effect of Temperature

ABSTRACT The course of diuresis in Rhodnius is described and interpreted in terms of the underlying mechanism. The rapid onset of diuresis is attributable to the prompt release of the diuretic hormone into the haemolymph and to an acceleration of the circulation of the haemolymph caused by peristaltic movements of the mid-gut. Diuresis proceeds at a surprisingly constant rate. This is shown to be a reflexion of the fact that the concentration of the diuretic hormone in the haemolymph at this time is always higher than that which causes the maximum response by the Malpighian tubules. The diuretic hormone is quickly destroyed by the activity of the Malpighian tubules and possibly other tissues. Consequently, the extent of diuresis is controlled by the length of time during which diuretic hormone is released into the haemolymph. Excretion is very sensitive to changes in temperature; both the rate of excretion and the composition of the urine are affected.