Electrical nature of recorded signals during stylet penetration by aphids

Electrical penetration graph, EPG, is a term suggested for recorded wave forms during electrically stylet penetration by aphids. The EPG appears to have two components with different electrical origin; i.e., resistance and electromotive force (emf). Fluctuating aphid resistance in series with the amplifier input resistor causes a fluctuating voltage due to dividing of a DC potential in the primary circuit. This circuit potential is composed of a supplied potential and potentials from the preparation such as half cell potentials at the electrode surfaces. The emf component consists of fluctuating potentials generated within the preparation itself. The value of the amplifier input resistance is rather critical; a high value in proportion to the aphid resistance favours the emf component, and a low value emphasizes the resistance component. Although resistance fluctuation forms the largest component of the signal, some parts of EPG patterns stem from emf. The DC method provides a more detailed signal than an AC system. The current through the aphids appears very low and is not likeley to influence feeding, or other biological functions of the aphid.

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