Reproductive systems and the mechanics of copulation in Plecia nearctica Hardy (Diptera: Bibionidae)

In Plecia nearctica Hardy, sperm transfer is accomplished by means of spermatophore complex unique to the Bibionidae. Males possess well-developed accessory glands that establish and provision large bilobed spermatophores. The recipient female system is composed of a “pelvis-like” structure that env...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inInternational journal of insect morphology & embryology Vol. 4; no. 4; pp. 299 - 305
Main Authors Leppla, Norman C., Carlysle, Thelma C., Guy, Richard H.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Elsevier Ltd 1975
Subjects
arthropods
entomology
insects
Mating behavior
sperm transfer
lovebug
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Summary:In Plecia nearctica Hardy, sperm transfer is accomplished by means of spermatophore complex unique to the Bibionidae. Males possess well-developed accessory glands that establish and provision large bilobed spermatophores. The recipient female system is composed of a “pelvis-like” structure that envelops sinuous accessory glands, a bulbous bursa, and paired spermathecae attached to elongate ducts branching from the copulatory canal. After completion of two preliminary phases of copulation, coupling and clasping in three interlocking layers, semen is exchanged by extrusion of a filament from the distal spermatophore to the proximal bursa. Branches of the spermatophore filament also extend into the spermathecal ducts; however, the spermatophore proper remains in the male, and is expelled within seconds after disengagement.
ISSN:0020-7322
1872-907X
DOI:10.1016/0020-7322(75)90018-5