关键词: 宽翅曲背蝗, 受精囊, 超微结构, 上皮细胞, 腺细胞, 导管细胞

Abstract:  【Aim】 To ascertain the morphology, organization structure and ultrastructure of the spermatheca in females of Pararcyptera microptera meridionalis (Orthoptera: Arcypterinae) for providing a better understanding of the functions of insect spermatheca. 【Methods】 The morphology, organization structure and ultrastructure of spermatheca of mated female adults of P. m. meridionalis were examined by means of the light and transmission electron microscopy. 【Results】 The spermatheca is composed of a seminal receptacle, mainly serving for storage of spermatozoa, and a long spermathecal duct. Histologically, both parts have an outer muscle coat followed by a basal lamina, epithelium, and cuticular intima. The epithelium is made up of three cell types, i.e., epithelial cells, gland cells and duct cells. Each gland cell has a reservoir lined with microvilli. The secretions of gland cell are released into the reservoir through which it reaches the spermathecal lumen via the secretory duct formed by the duct cell. 【Conclusion】 Regional differences in the ultrastructure of the cuticular intima and the reservoir in gland cell imply that the seminal receptacle and the spermathecal duct carry out different functions. The ultrastructural features revealed that epithelial cells are involved in the function of support, secretion and absorption.

Key words:  Pararcyptera microptera meridionalis, spermatheca, ultrastructure, epithelial cells, gland cells, duct cells