The pre-pupal cuticle generally described for Diptera Cyclorrhapha is here considered to be an inner layer of larval endocuticle rather than the cuticle of a distinct prepupal instar. Chemical and microscopical evidence is given. The mechanism of rupture of the operculum is also discussed in connexion with endocuticle secretion, sclerotization, and subsequent water loss.
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Joan M. Whitten (1957) studied this question.
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