Hemocytes in Myriapoda (Arthropoda): a review

Abstract

Hemocyte types described in the different subtaxa of Myriapoda are presented and characterised.
They comprise (1) prohemocytes, (2) plasmatocytes and (3) two different forms of granular
hemocytes; these three have been found in all taxa investigated. Spherulocytes and coagulocytes
were only found in some taxa. Adipohemocytes occur quite infrequent, oenocytoids have not been
detected but may be restricted to specific stages of the moulting cycle. Cystocytes described earlier
seem to be a preparation artefact. Granular hemocytes are the most frequent hemocytes followed by
the plasmatocytes. In general, Diplopoda have fewer hemocytes than Chilopoda. The differences in
the hematogram and the functions of hemocytes are discussed.