A scanning electron microscope study of the blue reflecting particles in Enallagma civile (Hagen) (Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae)

The size distribution and physical arrangement in hypodermal cells of the reflecting particles responsible for the Tyndall-blue coloration of E. civile was compared for males and females. They are shown to be at least temporarily continuous with the endoplasmic reticulum. Micrographs are provided that suggest that these particles may indeed be composed of subparticles.