Abstract: For better understanding of the significance of β-gal glycoconjugates distribution during gametogenesis, the distribution of Ricinus communis agglutininⅠ (RCA-Ⅰ) receptors during gametogenesis in Atractomorpha sinensis Bolivar was detected by using lectin-binding cytochemistry method. The results showed that during spermatogenesis RCA-Ⅰ receptor was found on the membrane of spermatogenic cells at different stages, and the heads of deforming spermatids and sperms showed moderate positive reaction. During oogenesis, there was RCA-Ⅰ positive reaction in the oocytes of all stages, and the quantity of positive granules reached the maximum in the oocyte growth phase. With the formation of yolk granules, the products of RCA-Ⅰ positive reaction diminished gradually in oocytes, yet on the yolk membrane of maturing egg there appeared moderate positive reaction again. The results suggest that β-gal glycoconjugates may play great roles during gametogenesis of A. sinensis.

Key words: Atractomorpha sinensis, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, glycoconjugates, Ricinus communis agglutinin Ⅰ