Hydrocarbons in the millipede Graphidostreptus tumuliporus (Karsch) (Myriapoda: Diplopoda)—I. In vivo incorporation of 14C-labelled precursors into the hydrocarbon fraction

Abstract

1. 1. Biosynthesis of hydrocarbons in male and female specimens of the millipede Graphidostreptus tumuliporus was investigated after injection of the following precursors: 1-14C-acetate, 16-14C- and 1-14C-palmitic acid, isoleucine-14C(U), valine-14C(U) and mevalonic-2-14C acid.

2. 2. Both sexes are capable of synthesizing hydrocarbons from all precursors used. High radioactivities were achieved with acetate, palmitic acid and mevalonic acid, whilst with isoleucine and valine there was but little radioactivity in the total lipids and hydrocarbons.

3. 3. Rapid incorporation of mevalonic acid into the hydrocarbons may indicate that the branched hydrocarbons possess an isoprenoid type of branching.

Author Keywords: Biosynthesis of hydrocarbons in a millipede; Graphidostreptus tumuliporus; millipede; Myriapoda; precursors of hydrocarbons; lipid biosynthesis in a millipede