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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Development and comparative morphology of the reproductive system in different aged males of the drywood termite Cryptotermes brevis (Blattaria, Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)

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Author(s):
Laranjo, Lara Teixeira [1] ; da Silva, Iago Bueno [1] ; Costa-Leonardo, Ana Maria [1]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Estadual Paulista UNESP, Lab Cupins, Dept Biol, Inst Biociencias, Ave 24A, 1515, BR-13506900 Rio Claro, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: PROTOPLASMA; v. 257, n. 1, p. 31-42, JAN 2020.
Web of Science Citations: 1
Abstract

Termites are eusocial cockroaches, which have received great attention due to their diversity of reproductive strategies. Although these novelties allow new interpretations concerning the mating biology of these insects, studies highlighting the structure of the reproductive system are limited to some termite lineages. Here we provide the first comparative analysis of the reproductive system of a drywood termite, using different aged males of Cryptotermes brevis as models. This species represents an important structural pest in tropical regions, and most aspects of its reproductive biology remain unknown, especially on males. The reproductive apparatus of C. brevis is equipped with paired testes, composed of seven testicular lobes, in which developing spermatozoa are located. The basal portion of the lobes connects to the vasa deferentia and transport spermatozoa to a pair of enlarged chambers, the seminal vesicles. These structures join in a median ejaculatory duct, which opens to the external region through a retractile penis. Spermatozoa were observed in all C. brevis males, exhibiting elongated morphology and measuring about 10 mu m in length/4 mu m in width. Compared with last-instar nymphs and alates, functional kings showed enlarged testes and seminal vesicles, as well as an intense secretory activity towards the lumen of the latter structures. Histochemical tests evidenced strongly PAS and xylidine Ponceau positive reactions of the secretion only in functional kings, indicating the occurrence of glycoproteins. Thus, we suggest that morphophysiological changes establish during the maturation of the reproductive system in C. brevis. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 11/10590-4 - FUNCTIONAL MORPHOLOGY AND DYNAMICS OF MALE GENITAL TRACT IN REPRODUCTIVES WITH EMPHASIS ON TERMITE SEMINAL VESICLES
Grantee:Lara Teixeira Laranjo
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate