Will detected on the tongue of the yellow ant (Lasius flavus) from 20 to 24, and in Atta from 40 to 52, of these structures. The number of pits on the maxillæ vary much, not always being the same on the two sides of the same insect. We have observed these taste-cups in the honey and humble bee, not only at the base of the second maxillæ (Fig. 288, g), but also on the paraglossæ (pg).
Distribution in other orders of insects.—The writer has detected these taste-cups in other orders than Diptera and Hymenoptera. They very generally occur in mandibulate insects on the more exposed surface of the epipharynx (compare pp. 43–46). We have not observed them in the Synaptera (Lepisma and Machilis).
In the Dermaptera the taste-cups appear to be undeveloped in the nymph, while in the adult they are fewer in number than in any other pterygote order yet investigated.
In a species of Forficula from Cordova, Mexico, the taste-pits are few in number, there being only about a dozen on each side in all; most of them being situated on the anterior half, and a few near the base. The taste-pits are provided each with a short fine seta, as usual arising from the centre.
Fig. 286.—Under side of left maxilla of Vespa: Gm, taste-cups; Shm, protecting hairs; Tb, tactile hairs; Mt, base of maxillary palpus.—After Will.
In the order Platyptera (including Perla, Pteronarcys, Psocus, Termes, Eutermes, and Termopsis) we have been unable to detect any organs of taste.
Fig. 287.—Section through a taste-cup: SK, supporting cone; N, nerve; SZ, sense-cell.—After Will. This and Figs. 284–286 from Lubbock.
