Physiology of the Insect Epidermis

The insect epidermis is an ideal system for studies of differentiation, gene and hormonal action and the control of pattern. The monolayered epidermis of insects determines the sequential series of polymorphic stages during metamorphosis. Hence, a seemingly simple, single layered tissue is responsible for the stunningly complex array of physiological and morphological changes that scientists have tried to unravel for the past six decades. The 18 chapters of this book represent the work of 29 scientists from around the world and present what is now known about the various functions of the epidermis and our understanding of its structure. The book is aimed at all cell biologists, entomologists, and all those working on elucidating the controls to cell differentiation, growth and development.